Imagine a dish that captures the essence of Italian cuisine in just 15 minutes, bursting with fresh flavors and vibrant colors that will transport you straight to a sun-drenched Mediterranean terrace. This Make Ahead Caprese Salad is not just a recipe; it's a culinary experience that combines the classic simplicity of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil with a tantalizing balsamic twist that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're hosting a summer gathering or craving a light, refreshing meal, this salad is your ticket to instant gourmet status!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, cubed
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the cherry tomatoes thoroughly under cool running water. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully halve each cherry tomato on a clean cutting board. Ensure uniform size for even presentation and flavor distribution.
- Cube the fresh mozzarella into bite-sized pieces approximately the same size as the halved cherry tomatoes. This will help create a balanced texture in the salad.
- Gently wash the fresh basil leaves and pat them dry. Chop the basil into fine ribbons using a sharp knife or tear into small pieces by hand.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, cubed mozzarella, and chopped basil.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar and olive oil to create a simple dressing. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Pour the balsamic vinaigrette over the tomato and mozzarella mixture. Gently toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and taste. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or light appetizer. Best enjoyed within 24 hours of preparation.
Tips
- Choose the freshest ingredients: Select ripe, vibrant cherry tomatoes and high-quality fresh mozzarella for the best flavor.
- Uniform cutting is key: Ensure your tomatoes and mozzarella are cut to similar sizes for a professional presentation.
- Let it marinate: Refrigerating the salad for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld and intensify.
- Use fresh basil: Tear or chop basil just before adding to maintain its bright, aromatic qualities.
- Don't overdress: The balsamic vinaigrette should lightly coat the ingredients, not drown them.
- Serve chilled: This salad is best enjoyed cold, making it perfect for summer entertaining.
- Prep ahead: This recipe can be made up to 24 hours in advance, making it ideal for meal planning.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 190kcal
Carbohydrates: 9g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 30mg
