Simple Caprese Salad

1. 1
   prep · ~5 min

   Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella.

   1.Slice each tomato crosswise into even ¼-inch thick rounds.

   2.Slice the fresh mozzarella into ¼-inch thick rounds, matching the tomato slices in size.

   3.Pick the basil leaves from the stems and set aside the prettiest ones.

   TIPRoom-temperature tomatoes and mozzarella give the best flavor. Take them out of the fridge 30 minutes before slicing.
2. 2
   assemble · ~2 min

   Arrange the salad.

   1.On a large platter or individual plates, alternate slices of tomato and mozzarella in a row or spiral.

   2.Tuck a whole basil leaf between each tomato and mozzarella slice as you go.
3. 3
   garnish · ~1 min

   Drizzle with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and season.

   1.Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil evenly over the arranged salad.

   2.Add a thin drizzle of balsamic vinegar.

   3.Sprinkle with a pinch of flaky sea salt and a generous crack of black pepper.

   TIPDrizzle the balsamic sparingly — you want a whisper of sweetness and tang, not a puddle that overpowers the delicate mozzarella.
4. 4
   serve · ~1 min

   Serve immediately at room temperature.

   Let the salad sit for just a minute so the flavors settle, then serve right away with crusty bread to soak up the juices.

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