Description
A fresh and vibrant Caprese Salad featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, fragrant basil leaves, and a simple seasoning of olive oil, sea salt, oregano, and black pepper. Perfect as a light appetizer or side dish that’s quick and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds cherry tomatoes (680 grams)
- 7 ounces fresh mozzarella (200 grams)
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves (about 20–25 leaves)
Seasoning
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 ½ teaspoons sea salt
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Tomatoes: Cut the cherry tomatoes into halves or quarters, embracing different shapes and sizes for visual appeal. Place them in a bowl with 1 teaspoon sea salt and let them sit for 10 minutes to macerate. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and gently toss to coat.
- Prepare Mozzarella: Tear the fresh mozzarella into chunks roughly the same size as the tomato pieces to maintain balance in each bite.
- Assemble Base: Spread the seasoned cherry tomatoes, including any collected juices, evenly in a wide serving bowl or platter.
- Add Mozzarella: Distribute the mozzarella chunks over the bed of tomatoes to ensure an even spread.
- Add Basil: Scatter torn basil leaves over the salad for aromatic freshness.
- Season: Sprinkle the salad with the dried oregano, black pepper, and the remaining ½ teaspoon of sea salt to enhance flavors.
- Drizzle Olive Oil: Pour the remaining olive oil over the entire salad to add richness.
- Toss Gently: Give the salad a gentle toss to combine all ingredients without breaking the tomatoes or cheese.
- Garnish: Finally, scatter whole basil leaves on top right before serving for a fresh and vibrant presentation.
Notes
- Cherry Tomatoes: Grape tomatoes can be used as a substitute if preferred.
- Mozzarella: Use fresh mozzarella balls packed in whey or water; avoid low-moisture or dry-packed mozzarella. Bocconcini or pearl mozzarella are good alternatives.
- Use room temperature tomatoes and mozzarella for optimal flavor.
- Choose a good quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the dish.
- Make sure dried oregano is fresh and fragrant.
- Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Keywords: Caprese salad, cherry tomatoes salad, fresh mozzarella, basil salad, Italian salad, no-cook salad, easy summer salad