A Simple Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Salad

Overview:

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Yield: 5 cups
Calories per Serving: 188.1
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review Count: 1

Description:

This delightful cherry tomato and mozzarella salad recipe is a summer favorite, especially when the garden bursts with ripe tomatoes. It’s a quick and easy dish that captures the essence of freshness and simplicity.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups cherry tomatoes
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh basil, for garnish
• Olive oil, to drizzle
• Fresh lemon juice, for dressing
• Sugar, optional

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 188.1
• Fat: 12.7g
  • Saturated Fat: 7.4g
• Cholesterol: 44.2mg
• Sodium: 356.7mg
• Carbohydrates: 5.6g
  • Fiber: 1.3g
  • Sugar: 3.5g
• Protein: 13.4g

Instructions:

1. Preparation:

Gather all the ingredients needed for the salad. Ensure that the cherry tomatoes are ripe and fresh, and the mozzarella cheese is of good quality.

2. Assembling the Salad:

1. Begin by washing the cherry tomatoes thoroughly under cold running water. Pat them dry gently using a kitchen towel or paper towels.
2. Cut the cherry tomatoes in half and place them in a large mixing bowl.
3. Dice the mozzarella cheese into bite-sized pieces and add them to the bowl with the tomatoes.

3. Seasoning:

4. Sprinkle salt over the tomatoes and mozzarella cheese according to your taste preferences. Remember, a little salt goes a long way in enhancing the flavors of the salad.
5. Tear fresh basil leaves into small pieces and scatter them over the salad for a burst of aromatic freshness.

4. Dressing:

6. Drizzle a generous amount of olive oil over the salad. The olive oil adds richness and a subtle fruity flavor to the dish.
7. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salad to add a tangy brightness that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes and creaminess of the mozzarella cheese.
8. For those who prefer a hint of sweetness, sprinkle a pinch of sugar over the salad. This step is optional and can be adjusted based on personal taste.

5. Tossing:

9. Gently toss all the ingredients together until well combined. Ensure that the tomatoes and mozzarella cheese are evenly coated with the olive oil and lemon juice dressing.

6. Serving and Storage:

10. Once the salad is thoroughly mixed, it is ready to serve. Transfer it to a serving dish or individual plates, allowing the vibrant colors and textures to shine.
11. This cherry tomato and mozzarella salad can be enjoyed immediately as a refreshing appetizer, side dish, or light lunch.
12. If there are any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will keep well for up to two days, maintaining its freshness and flavors.

Enjoying the Salad:

13. Serve this simple yet flavorful salad alongside grilled meats, seafood, or as a topping for crusty bread or bruschetta.
14. The combination of juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella cheese, and aromatic basil makes this dish a crowd-pleaser at picnics, barbecues, and potluck gatherings.
15. Celebrate the abundance of summer produce with this easy cherry tomato and mozzarella salad, bringing a taste of sunshine to your table with every bite!