Kicked up Tomato, Basil, and Mozzarella Salad 🍅🌿🧀

Overview:

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this Kicked up Tomato, Basil, and Mozzarella Salad, a delightful ensemble of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil, kicked up with a touch of cracked black pepper and salt. Perfect for a quick and easy side dish or a light lunch option, this recipe promises to tantalize your taste buds with every bite. Let’s dive into the culinary journey of creating this delectable salad!

• Prep Time: 35 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: 206.7
• Rating: 4 stars
• Review Count: 1

Ingredients:

Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it’s adequately warmed up for the baking process.

2. Prepare Tomatoes:
   Wash the tomatoes thoroughly and carefully cut off the tops. Using a spoon, gently scoop out the inner flesh of the tomatoes, creating a hollow cavity within each.

3. Drain Excess Juice:
   Sprinkle a pinch of salt over each tomato, then place them upside down on a wire rack. Allow them to sit for approximately 20 to 25 minutes. This step helps drain excess moisture from the tomatoes, ensuring a firmer texture.

4. Layering Ingredients:
   Take two fresh basil leaves and place them at the bottom of each hollowed-out tomato. Follow this with a slice of creamy mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle a dash of cracked black pepper over the cheese layer, adding a subtle kick to the salad. Repeat this process for all the tomatoes.

5. Bake:
   Arrange the prepared tomatoes in a square baking dish, ensuring they are snugly nestled together. Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese has melted to your desired consistency, achieving a golden hue and tempting aroma.

6. Serve and Enjoy:
   Once baked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven, allowing the tomatoes to cool slightly. Serve these savory delights alongside your favorite dishes such as garlic bread, lasagna, beef stew, or pepper steak, adding a burst of freshness and flavor to your meal.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 206.7 per serving
• Fat Content: 13.3g
• Saturated Fat Content: 7.7g
• Cholesterol Content: 45.7mg
• Sodium Content: 371.6mg
• Carbohydrate Content: 8.5g
• Fiber Content: 2.3g
• Sugar Content: 5.4g
• Protein Content: 14.5g

Tips and Variations:

• Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor and texture, opt for ripe, juicy tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and high-quality mozzarella cheese.
• Customization: Feel free to personalize this salad by adding your favorite herbs, such as oregano or thyme, or incorporating additional toppings like balsamic glaze or roasted garlic.
• Grilled Variation: Instead of baking, you can also prepare this salad on the grill for a smoky twist. Simply place the stuffed tomatoes on a grill pan or foil, and cook over medium heat until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the stuffed tomatoes in advance and refrigerate them until ready to bake. This convenient option is perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

Conclusion:

With its vibrant colors, robust flavors, and easy preparation, this Kicked up Tomato, Basil, and Mozzarella Salad is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Whether served as a refreshing side dish or a light main course, this recipe offers a delightful combination of simplicity and sophistication, elevating any meal with its irresistible charm. Enjoy the fresh taste of summer with every savory bite of this delightful salad creation!