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Easy Caprese Salad Recipe with 4 Fresh Ingredients for Perfect Summer Meals

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A quick and simple Caprese salad featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil leaves, and extra virgin olive oil. Perfect for fresh, light summer meals with minimal ingredients and fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Ripe medium-sized tomatoes (vine-ripened or heirloom varieties)
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella ball
  • A handful of fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Flaky sea salt (optional but recommended)
  • Freshly cracked black pepper (optional but recommended)

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry your ingredients thoroughly: rinse tomatoes and basil leaves under cold water and pat dry.
  2. Slice the tomatoes into 1/4-inch (6 mm) thick slices, keeping them uniform.
  3. Slice the mozzarella into slices about 1/4 inch (6 mm) thick; chill in fridge for 10 minutes if too soft.
  4. Arrange alternating slices of tomato and mozzarella on a serving plate, overlapping slightly.
  5. Tuck whole basil leaves between the tomato and mozzarella slices, about one leaf per slice pair.
  6. Drizzle approximately 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of extra virgin olive oil evenly over the salad.
  7. Season with flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
  8. Let the salad rest at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before serving to meld flavors.

Notes

Use ripe but firm tomatoes to avoid mushy or watery salad. Dry ingredients thoroughly to help olive oil cling. Serve at room temperature for best flavor. Fresh basil is essential; dried basil is not recommended. High-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor. If salad seems dry, a splash of balsamic vinegar or glaze can be added. Avoid freezing mozzarella as it affects texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese salad, easy salad recipe, fresh mozzarella, summer salad, Italian salad, quick salad, basil, tomatoes, olive oil