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Recipe: Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Salad
History:
The Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that originates from Italian cuisine. It is often associated with the Caprese Salad, a traditional Italian dish that features fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil leaves, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. The simplicity of this salad highlights the quality and flavors of its ingredients, making it a favorite among many.
Recipe Ingredients:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz (about 225g) fresh mozzarella cheese, cubed or sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Recipe Instructions:
- Start by washing and halving the cherry tomatoes. Place them in a large bowl.
- Cut the fresh mozzarella cheese into cubes or slices, whichever you prefer. Add it to the bowl with the tomatoes.
- Tear the fresh basil leaves and add them to the bowl as well.
- Drizzle extra-virgin olive oil over the ingredients. If desired, add balsamic vinegar for an extra layer of flavor.
- Gently toss the ingredients together to ensure even distribution of the oil and vinegar.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Steps to Prepare:
- Wash and halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Cube or slice the fresh mozzarella cheese.
- Tear the fresh basil leaves.
- Combine the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil in a bowl.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar (if using).
- Gently toss the ingredients together.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Allow the flavors to meld for a few minutes before serving.
Preparation Time:
The Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Salad is a quick and easy dish to prepare. It should take approximately 15 minutes to wash, cut, and assemble the ingredients. The salad can be enjoyed immediately or chilled in the refrigerator for a bit before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Salad! It’s a perfect choice for a light appetizer, a side dish, or even a light meal on a hot day.
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and health information for a simple Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Salad:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate values per serving):
- Calories: Around 150
- Total Fat: About 10g
- Saturated Fat: Approximately 4g
- Cholesterol: Around 20mg
- Sodium: About 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 6g
- Dietary Fiber: Around 1g
- Sugars: Approximately 3g
- Protein: About 9g
- Vitamin C: Around 20% of daily recommended intake
- Calcium: Approximately 20% of daily recommended intake
Health Information:
- The Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Salad is relatively low in calories, making it a light and refreshing option.
- Tomatoes are a great source of vitamin C, which supports the immune system and skin health.
- Mozzarella cheese provides a good amount of protein and calcium, important for bone health and muscle function.
- The salad contains healthy fats from extra-virgin olive oil, which is beneficial for heart health.
- Basil leaves add a burst of flavor and contain antioxidants that contribute to overall health.
- The salad is relatively low in carbohydrates and sugars, making it suitable for those watching their carb intake.
- The optional balsamic vinegar can add a touch of sweetness and flavor but may also contribute to the overall sugar content.
- The salad’s ingredients are generally low in sodium, which can be suitable for those on a low-sodium diet.
- It’s a gluten-free option and can be enjoyed by individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
- As with any dish, portion control is important, especially for those watching their caloric intake.
Remember that these values are approximate and can vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used. If you have specific dietary concerns or health goals, it’s always a good idea to consult a registered dietitian or healthcare professional.
