Classic Italian Caprese Salad

Fresh basil and tomatoes are combined with mozzarella cheese and a light vinaigrette to form this classic Italian salad.

This is a perfect side dish to serve with some fresh ravioli which is exactly what we did tonight for dinner but this is a favorite light lunch with a slice of fresh Italian bread.

If you wanted to prepare this ahead of time for a picnic or party, it’s easy to do. Simply follow the directions but leave the basil whole until you are just ready to serve.  Basil needs to be used at the very last minute. Tear or chiffonade the basil just prior to serving as it oxidizes and turns brown, similar to a sliced apple or potato. This will keep your salad looking fresh and beautiful for your guests.

Caprese Salad

Ronda Eagle | Kitchen Dreaming

Fresh basil and tomatoes are combined with mozzarella cheese and a light vinaigrette for this classic Italian salad.

5 from 1 vote

Print Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Course Salad

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 218 kcal

Ingredients

  

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• 2 Tbsp red wine vinegar
• 4 Tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 tsp salt , more or less to taste
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper , to taste
• 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes , halved
• 15 fresh basil leaves , torn
• 4 oz mozzarella balls

Instructions

 

• Combine vinegar, olive oil, salt and pepper in a medium bowl, whisking well to blend.
• Next, add tomatoes, basil leaves, and mozzarella cheese. Toss to combine.
• Serve immediately (see notes).

Notes

If you wish to prepare this ahead of a party, follow all the directions except leave the basil whole. Tear and toss into salad just as serving. Basil will turn color very shortly after it’s torn or chopped for the salad.

Nutrition

Calories: 218kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 6gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 172mgPotassium: 280mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1065IUVitamin C: 16.5mgCalcium: 116mgIron: 0.5mg

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