Caprese

Caprese Salad Recipe: A Symphony of Colors and Flavors

Total preparation time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 2-4

Caprese salad is a true symbol of summer, bringing not only an explosion of colors to the table but also flavors that remind us of fragrant gardens and clear skies. This simple and quick recipe, with deep roots in culinary tradition, teaches us how to combine basic ingredients to create a delicious and healthy dish. In the following steps, we will explore how to prepare the perfect Caprese salad, full of freshness.

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 mozzarella of 250 g (choose a fresh mozzarella, preferably made from buffalo milk)
- 2 large tomatoes (ripe tomatoes, ideally heirloom tomatoes for an intense flavor)
- Salt, to taste (sea salt or Himalayan salt for an extra flavor boost)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Dried oregano (or, for a more intense flavor, fresh oregano, if available)
- 10 fresh basil leaves (fresh basil leaves add an unmistakable fragrance)
- 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil (choose a high-quality oil to highlight the flavors)

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the tomatoes and basil. Make sure the tomatoes are ripe but not too soft, so they can be cut into nice slices. The mozzarella should be at room temperature to allow its full flavor to shine.

2. Slicing the tomatoes and mozzarella: Cut the tomatoes into slices about 0.5 cm thick. It's important to use a sharp knife to get clean cuts. Do the same with the mozzarella, slicing it to the same thickness. This uniformity will create a pleasing appearance and ensure a perfect blend of flavors.

3. Assembling the salad: On a flat plate, start arranging the slices of tomato and mozzarella, alternating them. You can use a circular arrangement or a straight line, depending on your personal preferences. Also, leave a small space between the slices of tomatoes and mozzarella to allow the flavors to mingle.

4. Seasoning: Once you have finished placing all the ingredients, sprinkle salt and freshly ground pepper over the salad, to taste. Add dried or fresh oregano, then generously drizzle with extra virgin olive oil. This will add a note of richness and tie all the flavors together.

5. Garnishing with basil: Tear the fresh basil leaves into smaller pieces and sprinkle them over the salad. The basil will not only add a fresh look but also an intense aroma that will perfectly complement the tomatoes and mozzarella.

6. Serving: The Caprese salad is served cold, and for a special visual effect, you can accompany it with some crunchy croutons or a slice of artisanal bread. This makes every bite an unforgettable experience.

Helpful tips:
- Choose the best quality ingredients. Fresh mozzarella and ripe tomatoes are key to an excellent salad.
- If you want to experiment, try adding avocado or Kalamata olives for an extra Mediterranean touch.
- This salad pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or a refreshing aperitif, such as a spritz.

Nutritional values (per serving, estimated):
- Calories: approximately 250 kcal
- Protein: 12 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use light mozzarella? While you can, the texture and flavor will not be as rich as in the classic version.
- How can I store the salad? It is recommended to consume it immediately after preparation, but if there are leftovers, you can keep them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for a day.

A Caprese salad recipe is not just a dish but also a story about the simplicity and beauty of natural ingredients. Whether you prepare it for a light lunch or as an appetizer for an elegant dinner, every bite will bring you joy. Enjoy this dish with your loved ones and turn every meal into a celebration moment!