How to Make a Perfect Classic Italian Caprese Salad at Home

Discover how to prepare a classic Italian Caprese salad at home with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and a clever basil slicing technique.

How to Make a Perfect Classic Italian Caprese Salad at Home
Photo: Unsplash / Janice Lin

The classic Italian Caprese salad is a vibrant celebration of colors and flavors that anyone can easily prepare at home. This simple yet sophisticated dish serves as a light and refreshing lunch or an impressive side dish for any gathering.

Ingredients

  • 2 balls of fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced

  • 3 ripe tomatoes, sliced

  • 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar

  • 1/3 cup olive oil

  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves

  • 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt

  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Preparation Method

  1. First, prepare the dressing: whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, coarse salt, and ground black pepper in a small bowl until a uniform mixture is formed.

  2. Next, handle the basil: stack the fresh basil leaves on top of one another, roll them tightly into a cylinder, and slice them into delicate ribbons using a sharp knife.

  3. Arrange the sliced tomatoes and fresh mozzarella on a serving platter in an alternating, overlapping pattern.

  4. Drizzle the prepared dressing evenly over the salad, scatter the fragrant basil ribbons on top, and serve immediately.

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