Classic Italian Caprese salad with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and extra virgin olive oil. This simple Insalata Caprese showcases quality ingredients with minimal preparation for maximum flavor.
0 of 7 ingredients checked
7 items
Begin by preparing tomatoes through washing ripe heirloom tomatoes gently under cool running water and patting them completely dry with clean kitchen towel. Remove core from each tomato using small sharp knife
Slice ripe heirloom tomatoes into rounds about 1cm thick using sharp serrated knife. Arrange tomato slices on large serving platter in single layer, overlapping slightly if needed
Drain fresh mozzarella cheese from packaging liquid and pat dry gently with paper towels. Slice fresh mozzarella cheese into rounds about 1cm thick, matching thickness of tomato slices
Arrange fresh mozzarella cheese slices on platter by alternating with tomato slices in overlapping pattern. Create attractive presentation by layering one slice of tomato, one slice of fresh mozzarella cheese, repeating pattern across platter
Tuck whole fresh basil leaves between tomato and fresh mozzarella cheese slices, distributing basil evenly across entire platter for color and flavor
Drizzle extra virgin olive oil generously over entire salad, making sure to coat all tomato and fresh mozzarella cheese slices. Add balsamic vinegar drizzle if using for extra flavor
Season assembled salad with flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Sprinkle seasoning evenly over all ingredients for balanced flavor
Serve Italian Caprese salad immediately at room temperature for best flavor. Allow fresh mozzarella cheese and tomatoes to remain at room temperature rather than refrigerating for optimal taste
