Create the perfect, simple Caprese Salad using ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil. This recipe includes instructions for a superior homemade balsamic glaze for an elegant appetizer or light dinner.
Author:Cat
Prep Time:10 min
Cook Time:15 min
Total Time:25 min
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Appetizer
Method:Assembly
Cuisine:Italian
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
3 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
1 pound fresh mozzarella (preferably buffalo mozzarella or fresh mozzarella balls), sliced or torn
1 cup fresh basil leaves
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Balsamic Glaze: 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
Instructions
Prepare the balsamic glaze: Pour the balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and let it gently simmer, stirring occasionally, until the vinegar reduces by half and coats the back of a spoon (about 10 to 15 minutes). Remove from heat and let it cool; it will thicken further as it cools.
Arrange the tomato slices on a serving platter, alternating with the mozzarella slices.
Tuck fresh basil leaves between the tomato and mozzarella layers.
Drizzle the entire platter evenly with the extra virgin olive oil.
Season the salad lightly with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Just before serving, drizzle the cooled homemade balsamic glaze over the salad.
Serve immediately as a fresh tomato mozzarella salad or light dinner recipe.
Notes
For the best flavor, use high-quality, fresh mozzarella and vine-ripened tomatoes.
If you use small mozzarella pearls (bocconcini), you can simply scatter them over the tomatoes and basil.
This salad pairs well with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio.