Caprese Salad Plate
Tomato, mozzarella, basil with olive oil — Italian classic.
For 2 servings
Arrange the salad components on the plates.
- Slice the tomatoes and fresh mozzarella into uniform rounds.
- Alternate layers of tomato, mozzarella, and whole basil leaves on two serving plates.
- Fan the slices slightly to ensure every bite includes all three ingredients.
TIPUse room temperature tomatoes to ensure the most vibrant flavor profile.Dress the salad with oil and seasoning.
Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar evenly over the arranged layers. Finish with a light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper to enhance the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and the creaminess of the cheese.
TIPTear larger basil leaves by hand rather than chopping them to prevent the edges from bruising or turning black.
What to keep in mind.
3 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Select heavy, vine-ripened tomatoes for the best juice content and flavor.
- 2Use a high-quality, cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil as its flavor is prominent in this simple dish.
- 3If the balsamic vinegar is very thin, simmer it in a small pan until reduced by half for a thicker glaze.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Substitute the mozzarella with thick slices of ripe avocado or a firm almond-based vegan cheese.
low sodiumLow sodium
Focus on high-quality balsamic and extra basil to provide flavor depth without the need for added salt.
low carbLow carb
This recipe is naturally low-carb; ensure you use a vinegar without added sugars or thickeners.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Heart-Healthy Monounsaturated Fats
Olive oil supports cardiovascular health by maintaining healthy cholesterol levels.
Antioxidant-Rich Lycopene
Fresh tomatoes provide lycopene, which helps protect cells from oxidative stress.
High-Quality Dairy Protein
Fresh mozzarella offers essential amino acids and calcium for muscle and bone maintenance.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is a nutrient-dense dish providing high-quality protein, healthy monounsaturated fats from olive oil, and antioxidants from fresh tomatoes.
