Caprese Salad Fresh Basil (Print View)

A vibrant mix of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil vinaigrette for a light, fresh Italian dish.

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 3 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
02 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

→ Dairy

03 - 9 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced

→ Fresh Herbs

04 - 1 cup fresh basil leaves, divided

→ Basil Vinaigrette

05 - 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
06 - 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
07 - 1 small garlic clove, minced
08 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
09 - 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
10 - 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Garnish

11 - Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
12 - Flaky sea salt, to taste

# How To Make It:

01 - In a blender or food processor, combine 1/2 cup basil leaves, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, Dijon mustard, sea salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and vibrant green. Adjust seasoning to taste.
02 - Arrange tomato slices, cherry tomato halves, and mozzarella slices alternately on a large platter or individual bowls to create a classic Caprese presentation.
03 - Drizzle the prepared basil vinaigrette generously over the layered ingredients.
04 - Scatter the remaining fresh basil leaves on top, then season with flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
05 - Present immediately as a refreshing salad or light meal.

# Expert Insights:

01 -
  • Light and refreshing
  • Easy to prepare with fresh ingredients
02 -
  • Contains dairy from mozzarella
  • Gluten-free if served without bread
03 -
  • Use fresh basil for best flavor
  • Serve immediately to prevent tomatoes from releasing too much juice
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