Sassy Salads

Caprese Salad

Caprese salad, or Insalata Caprese as it's known in Italian, epitomizes the flavours of Italy with its simple and fresh ingredients. This classic dish originated from the island of Capri in the Campania region of Italy and has gained worldwide popularity for its delightful combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, fragrant basil leaves, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. The ingredients in a Caprese salad are often arranged to resemble the colours of the Italian flag: green, white, and red.

The key to a perfect Caprese salad lies in the quality of its components. Ideally, the tomatoes should be juicy and sweet, the mozzarella soft and creamy, and the basil freshly picked. A sprinkle of salt and a dash of freshly ground black pepper enhances the flavours, while some prefer to add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a touch of acidity. This salad is a beloved starter or side that beautifully complements many Mediterranean dishes.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
• 450g fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• Fresh basil leaves
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Balsamic vinegar or glaze (optional)

A wide variety of quality ingredients for our recipes are available from Arkadia supermarkets in Malta and Gozo, including Arkadia FoodExpress Swatar and Arkadia Food Market Valletta.

Method:

1. Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella into approximately 1/4-inch thick slices.

2. On a large platter, alternate layers of tomato slices, mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves. You can arrange them in a circular pattern around the platter or in rows for a more structured look.

3. Sprinkle the salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

4. Drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil. The oil helps to bring out the flavours of the tomatoes and cheese.

5. If desired, add a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or a few drops of balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy finish.

6. Caprese salad is best enjoyed fresh, at room temperature, to allow the flavours of the ingredients to meld beautifully.

Enjoy your Caprese salad with a crusty piece of bread or as a light, refreshing meal!

Liked this one? Get more sassy salad recipes - https://arkadiafoodstore.com/sassy-salads/

Tell your Facebook friends about it.