BA’s Best Caprese Salad

Caprese salad, a quintessential dish hailing from the sun-kissed shores of Italy, embodies the essence of simplicity and freshness in Italian cuisine. Traditionally made with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt, this dish celebrates the vibrant flavors of its ingredients. The origins of Caprese can be traced back to the island of Capri, where it was enjoyed as a refreshing appetizer or light meal, particularly favored by locals and tourists alike during the warm summer months. The beauty of Caprese lies not just in its taste but also in its vibrant colors, which echo the Italian flag—red, white, and green.

Discover the art of creating a stunning Caprese Heaven salad, an elevated take on the classic Italian dish. This refreshing salad showcases the vibrant flavors of heirloom tomatoes, creamy buffalo mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all enhanced by high-quality extra-virgin olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar. Learn about the key ingredients, their nutritional benefits, and how to present this dish beautifully. Perfect for summer gatherings or light meals, it’s a celebration of simplicity and freshness that will transport your taste buds straight to Italy.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

4 ripe heirloom tomatoes, assorted colors

8 oz fresh buffalo mozzarella, sliced

1 cup fresh basil leaves, rinsed and dried

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon aged balsamic vinegar

Salt, to taste

Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Zest of 1 lemon (optional for added brightness)

Instructions

Slice the Tomatoes: Start by washing the heirloom tomatoes. Remove the stems and slice them into even rounds, about 1/2 inch thick. Arrange the tomato slices on a large serving platter, alternating colors for visual appeal.

Add the Mozzarella: Layer the fresh buffalo mozzarella slices on top of the tomato slices. For a more artistic presentation, you can alternate the arrangement with the tomatoes.

Sprinkle the Basil: Tuck fresh basil leaves between the layers of tomato and mozzarella. Tear larger basil leaves into smaller pieces for a more rustic look.

Drizzle the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar. Drizzle this mixture generously over the salad.

Season: Sprinkle salt and freshly cracked black pepper over the top. If desired, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice and zest the lemon over the salad for a refreshing twist.

Serve: Allow the salad to sit for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld before serving. This salad is best enjoyed at room temperature.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4-6