Insalata Caprese Salad Recipe
Delightfully simple yet utterly sophisticated, the Insalata Caprese Salad embodies the essence of Italian cuisine with its vibrant colors and fresh flavors. This iconic dish, originating from the picturesque island of Capri, features luscious tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all brought together with a drizzle of rich olive oil and a splash of tangy red wine vinaigrette. Perfect as an appetizer or a light meal, this salad showcases the beauty of fresh ingredients while delivering a refreshing taste that is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tomatoes (sliced 1/4 inch thick) | 4 |
| Mozzarella cheese (sliced 1/4 inch thick) | 400 grams |
| Fresh basil leaves | 50 grams |
| Red wine vinaigrette | 3 tablespoons |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 3 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Freshly ground black pepper | To taste |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Total Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6 g |
| Cholesterol | 30 mg |
| Sodium | 500 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 4 g |
| Protein | 10 g |
Preparation Time
| Activity | Time (mins) |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 20 |
| Cooking | 0 |
| Total Time | 20 |
Instructions
To commence our culinary journey into the creation of the Insalata Caprese Salad, begin by preparing the star ingredients: the tomatoes and mozzarella cheese. Carefully slice the tomatoes into 1/4 inch thick rounds, allowing their vibrant color and juicy interior to shine. Next, take the mozzarella cheese and slice it into equally thick rounds, ensuring a perfect balance with the tomatoes.
Once the tomatoes and mozzarella are sliced, it’s time to artistically arrange them on a large serving platter. Alternate layers of tomatoes and mozzarella, allowing their colors to overlap enticingly. Nestle fresh basil leaves between the layers, adding not only a pop of green but also a delightful aroma that is quintessential to this salad.
After arranging the components, season the salad generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting to taste as you go. This seasoning step is vital, as it enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients and adds depth to the dish.
Next, elevate the salad by drizzling it with extra virgin olive oil, which adds richness, and red wine vinaigrette, contributing a zesty tang that complements the creamy mozzarella and sweet tomatoes beautifully.
To serve, present the Insalata Caprese Salad immediately while it is fresh, pairing it with delightful accompaniments such as the Crispy Eggless Bread Pinwheels Recipe and the Orange Mocktail Recipe to create a delightful Italian meal experience that your guests will adore. The vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and delightful textures will surely make this salad a highlight of your dining table. Enjoy the simplicity and elegance of this classic Italian dish!
