Roasted Tomato and Mozzarella Caprese Salad with Basil Balsamic Vinegar
Delve into the heart of Italian cuisine with this delightful Roasted Tomato and Mozzarella Caprese Salad. This vibrant dish beautifully combines the rich flavors of roasted tomatoes and creamy mozzarella, enhanced by the freshness of basil and a splash of balsamic vinegar. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal, this salad celebrates the essence of summer produce, making it an ideal addition to any dining experience.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tomatoes | 6 large |
| Mozzarella cheese | 100 grams |
| Basil leaves (chopped) | 10 |
| Rosemary sprig | 1 |
| Garlic cloves | 5 (minced) |
| Lemon juice | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black pepper powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Paprika powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Balsamic vinegar | 2 tablespoons |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 2 teaspoons |
| Sea salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 |
| Protein | 7g |
| Total Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 14g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 3g |
| Sodium | 220mg |
Preparation Details
| Detail | Time |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 5 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 15 minutes |
| Servings | 2 |
| Cuisine | Italian |
| Course | Side Dish |
| Diet | Vegetarian |
Instructions
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Marinate the Tomatoes: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the tomatoes in half and place them in a mixing bowl. Drizzle with 1/2 teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil, and season with sea salt, black pepper, paprika, lemon juice, and chopped basil. Allow the tomatoes to marinate for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully.
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Prepare the Mozzarella: While the tomatoes are marinating, slice the mozzarella cheese into five thick slices. Set aside.
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Sauté the Garlic: In a roasting pan, heat the remaining 1 teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant, but be careful not to let it brown.
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Arrange the Ingredients: Once the garlic is fragrant, arrange the marinated tomatoes in circles within the pan. Place the mozzarella slices strategically in between the tomato halves, allowing some gaps for even cooking. Lay the rosemary sprig atop the arrangement.
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Drizzle with Balsamic: Gently drizzle balsamic vinegar over the entire pan, enhancing the dish with its sweet and tangy profile.
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Roast to Perfection: Transfer the roasting pan to the oven and cook for approximately 8 minutes, or until the mozzarella is melted and the tomatoes are tender yet still hold their shape. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook.
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Final Touches: Once done, taste and adjust the seasoning with more sea salt and black pepper if necessary.
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Serve: Plate the roasted tomato and mozzarella caprese salad while hot, allowing the delicious aromas to waft through the air. For an added touch of culinary delight, consider serving this salad alongside a comforting French Onion Soup, creating a perfect blend of flavors for a satisfying weekday dinner.
Pairing Suggestions
This Roasted Tomato and Mozzarella Caprese Salad pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, enhancing the dining experience with additional textures. The dish not only embodies the essence of Italian cuisine but also serves as a refreshing addition to any meal, showcasing the simplicity and brilliance of fresh ingredients.
Conclusion
Indulge in the exquisite combination of flavors that this Roasted Tomato and Mozzarella Caprese Salad offers. With minimal preparation and cooking time, you can easily bring a taste of Italy to your table, making it a must-try for any culinary enthusiast looking to celebrate the beauty of seasonal produce. Enjoy the journey of flavors in every bite, and let this dish inspire your next culinary adventure!
