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Classic Caprese Salad

This simple yet elegant salad combines ripe tomatoes, soft mozzarella, and fragrant basil, layered and drizzled with high-quality olive oil and a touch of salt. The dish highlights the natural juiciness and creaminess of its ingredients, resulting in a fresh, juicy, and visually appealing final presentation.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large heirloom tomatoes sliced into ¼ inch thick rounds
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella preferably soft and milky, torn into chunks
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves torn into pieces
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil drizzle just before serving
  • to taste sea salt sprinkled over the top
  • to taste freshly cracked black pepper optional, for seasoning

Equipment

  • Sharp Knife
  • Serving platter

Method
 

  1. Lay out a clean serving platter or plate as your base for assembling the salad.
  2. Slice the heirloom tomatoes into even ¼ inch thick rounds, feeling the soft resistance as the knife slices through the juicy fruit.
  3. Tear the fresh mozzarella into rustic chunks, gently tearing with your fingers to keep the pieces uneven and inviting.
  4. Arrange slices of tomato and chunks of mozzarella on the platter in an alternating pattern, creating a colorful, layered look.
  5. Tear basil leaves into smaller pieces and scatter them generously over the layered ingredients, releasing a fragrant aroma as you do.
  6. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the assembled salad, allowing it to seep into the layers and enhance the flavors.
  7. Sprinkle sea salt over the top to enhance sweetness and balance the flavors.
  8. Add freshly cracked black pepper if desired, giving a subtle spicy kick to each bite.
  9. Serve immediately, allowing the juicy tomatoes, creamy cheese, and fragrant basil to shine in each bite.