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Tomato mozzarella basil salad with balsamic reduction on an ironstone plate garnished

Tomato Mozzarella Basil Salad

Tomato mozzarella basil salad is a simple and refreshing dish that requires a few fresh ingredients. Try this easy recipe with balsamic reduction as a side dish or appetizer at your next get-together with family or friends.
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Course: Appetizer, lunch & dinner meals, Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: caprese salad, how to make a caprese salad, tomato mozzarella basil salad
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 310kcal
Author: Deborah McDonald
Cost: 10

Ingredients

Caprese Salad

  • 4-5 large ripe tomatoes beefsteak
  • 1 pound fresh mozzarella cheese
  • 1 bunch fresh basil leaves
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar or balsamic reduction
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Balsamic Reduction

  • 1 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1/4 cup honey optional

Instructions

Tomato Mozzarella Basil Salad

  • Prepare the ingredients. Begin by gathering the best quality ingredients you can find
    tomato mozzarella basil ingredients to make salad
  • Slice the ingredients. Start by slicing the tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Then, slice the mozzarella cheese into similar-sized rounds. Next, pick the basil leaves off the stems and tear them into small pieces.
    cutting mozzarella on a cutting board with a chefs knife
  • Layer the salad. Start by arranging the tomato slices on a large platter. Then, place or layer the mozzarella cheese slices on top of the tomatoes. Finally, sprinkle the torn basil leaves over the top.
    layering fresh Bocconcini mozzarella to a tomato to make caprese salad
  • Dress the salad. If you are using the balsamic reduction, try drizzling it in a beautiful pattern over the salad. If you decide to make a dressing instead, in a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Drizzle the dressing over the salad.
    pouring balsamic reduction onto tomato mozzarella basil salad

Balsamic Reduction

  • In a small saucepan, pour in 1 cup of balsamic vinegar and 1/4 cup of honey (if using).
  • Heat the mixture over medium-high heat until it comes to a boil.
  • Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer until it has reduced by half, stirring occasionally. This should take about 20-25 minutes.
  • Once the mixture has reduced, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.

Video

Notes

Here are some tips for making a delicious tomato mozzarella basil salad:
  1. Choose the right tomatoes: Use ripe, juicy tomatoes that are in season for the best flavor. Heirloom tomatoes are a great choice if you can find them.
  2. Use fresh mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella is softer and creamier than other types of mozzarella cheese, and it pairs perfectly with the tomatoes and basil in a Caprese salad.
  3. Slice the ingredients evenly: Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella cheese into even slices so that the salad looks visually appealing and is easy to eat.
  4. Use fresh basil: Fresh basil leaves add a fragrant and flavorful element to the salad. Tear the leaves into small pieces and scatter them over the tomatoes and cheese.
  5. Season the salad: Drizzle the salad with high-quality extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar or glaze. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  6. Serve at room temperature: Let the salad sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
  7. Optional additions: You can add other ingredients to the salad, such as sliced avocado, prosciutto, or arugula, to give it some extra flavor and texture.

Nutrition

Calories: 310kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 14g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 9g | Cholesterol: 45mg | Sodium: 369mg | Potassium: 307mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 17g | Vitamin A: 1194IU | Vitamin C: 13mg | Calcium: 308mg | Iron: 1mg
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