Why Make This Recipe
Caprese – Tomatoes with Mozzarella and Basil is a classic Italian dish that celebrates the simple and delicious flavors of fresh ingredients. It’s not only easy to make but also looks beautiful on the plate. This dish makes a great appetizer or salad and is perfect for gatherings or a light meal. By using fresh, high-quality tomatoes and mozzarella, you create a dish that is as delightful to taste as it is to see.
How to Make Caprese
Ingredients:
- 4 Roma Tomatoes
- Fresh Basil Leaves
- 8 ounces Fresh Mozzarella cheese (sliced)
- 1/2 Tablespoon of olive oil
- Salt and Black Pepper
- Drizzle of Balsamic Vinegar or Balsamic glaze (optional)
Directions:
- Slice tomatoes and Mozzarella cheese.
- Later the sliced tomatoes, sliced cheese and fresh basil leaves on a serving platter, overlapping.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil.
- Spritz with balsamic vinegar or drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired.
- Serve immediately at room temperature, or refrigerate to let the flavors marry, for about 2 hours.
- Enjoy with sliced baguette as an appetizer, or alone as a salad.
How to Serve Caprese
Caprese can be served beautifully arranged on a platter. Place the overlapping slices of tomato and mozzarella with fresh basil leaves in between. It can be enjoyed as an appetizer, or paired with crusty baguette slices for a delightful start to a meal.
How to Store Caprese
If you have leftovers, store the Caprese in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to consume it within one day to enjoy the freshness of the ingredients. However, if you put it in the refrigerator for a couple of hours before serving, it can enhance the flavors.
Tips to Make Caprese
- Always choose fresh, ripe Roma tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Use high-quality fresh mozzarella for a creamy texture.
- Let the Caprese sit for a bit at room temperature before serving to enhance the taste.
- For presentation, consider using a platter that highlights the colors of the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
Variation
You can add a twist to your Caprese by including other ingredients like avocado slices, or using different types of oil or vinaigrettes for a unique flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular tomatoes instead of Roma tomatoes?
Yes, you can use any fresh tomatoes, but Roma tomatoes are preferred for their firm texture and flavor.
2. Can I make Caprese ahead of time?
You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble them just before serving to keep them fresh.
3. Is Caprese gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients themselves are gluten-free. Just be cautious with any bread you serve it with.
Caprese Salad
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 Roma Tomatoes Choose ripe for the best flavor.
- 8 ounces Fresh Mozzarella cheese (sliced) Use high-quality for creamy texture.
- 1/2 Tablespoon Olive oil Extra virgin preferred.
- Salt and Black Pepper To taste.
- Drizzle of Balsamic Vinegar or Balsamic glaze (optional)
- Fresh leaves Basil Use fresh for optimal flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Slice tomatoes and Mozzarella cheese.
- Layer the sliced tomatoes, sliced cheese and fresh basil leaves on a serving platter, overlapping.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil.
- Spritz with balsamic vinegar or drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired.
Serving
- Serve immediately at room temperature, or refrigerate to let the flavors marry, for about 2 hours.
- Enjoy with sliced baguette as an appetizer, or alone as a salad.