Insalata Caprese

Authentic Insalata Caprese Recipe - Traditional Italian Salad

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Insalata Caprese is a classic Italian salad that showcases the flavors of fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. This simple yet elegant dish is perfect for showcasing the best of summer produce.

History

Insalata Caprese originated on the island of Capri in the Campania region of Italy. It was created as a way to highlight the flavors of the region, including ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and aromatic basil. The salad has since become a staple of Italian cuisine and is enjoyed around the world.

Ingredients

4 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
12 oz (340 g) fresh mozzarella, sliced
1 cup fresh basil leaves
0.5 tsp salt
2 tbsp olive oil

How to prepare

Arrange the tomatoes and mozzarella in alternating slices on a serving platter.
Sprinkle with basil leaves.
Drizzle a generous amount of olive oil and season with salt just before serving.
Do not refrigerate before serving and serve at room temperature.

Variations

Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or reduction for a sweeter flavor.
Top the salad with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a handful of arugula for added texture.
Use heirloom tomatoes or cherry tomatoes for a different twist on the classic recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use the ripest, juiciest tomatoes you can find for the best flavor.

- Be sure to use fresh mozzarella, not the shredded or pre-sliced kind.

- Tear the basil leaves instead of chopping them to release their full flavor.

- Drizzle the olive oil just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Insalata Caprese as a side dish or appetizer alongside grilled meats or seafood. It also makes a great light lunch when paired with a crusty baguette.

Cooking Techniques

Insalata Caprese requires no cooking, making it a quick and easy dish to prepare. Simply slice the tomatoes and mozzarella, tear the basil leaves, and assemble the salad on a platter.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find fresh mozzarella, you can use bocconcini or burrata as a substitute. You can also use dried basil in place of fresh, but the flavor won't be as vibrant.

Make Ahead Tips

Insalata Caprese is best served fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble the salad just before serving. Keep the tomatoes and mozzarella separate until you're ready to serve to prevent the salad from becoming watery.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices in a circular pattern on a platter for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with a few whole basil leaves for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Insalata Caprese pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. It also goes well with a light beer or sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Insalata Caprese is best enjoyed fresh, but any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Let the salad come to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Insalata Caprese contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Insalata Caprese contains approximately 6 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Insalata Caprese contains approximately 18 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Insalata Caprese contains approximately 14 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Insalata Caprese is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and calcium.

Alergens

Insalata Caprese contains dairy (mozzarella) and may contain traces of nuts (if using pine nuts).

Summary

Insalata Caprese is a nutritious and delicious salad that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is a great option for a light and refreshing meal.

Summary

Insalata Caprese is a classic Italian salad that celebrates the flavors of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil. This simple yet elegant dish is perfect for showcasing the best of summer produce and makes a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, the kind where the sun shines brightly and the air is filled with the scent of blooming flowers. I was strolling through the streets of a quaint little village in Italy, my heart filled with excitement and wonder at the new sights and sounds around me.

As I wandered, I stumbled upon a bustling market filled with vendors selling fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs. The vibrant colors and intoxicating smells drew me in, and I found myself browsing the stalls with wide-eyed curiosity. It was there that I saw a beautiful display of ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil - the key ingredients for what I would soon discover to be Insalata Caprese.

I watched as a kindly old woman behind the stall expertly sliced the tomatoes and cheese, layering them with basil leaves and drizzling them with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. The simplicity of the dish and the love and care with which it was prepared captivated me. I knew in that instant that I had to learn how to make it myself.

Approaching the woman, I mustered up the courage to ask her for the recipe. Her eyes twinkled with delight as she shared the ingredients and method with me, her hands moving with practiced ease. I listened intently, committing every detail to memory, eager to recreate the dish at home for my family.

Back in my own kitchen, I gathered the ingredients - plump, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, extra virgin olive oil, and aged balsamic vinegar. I carefully sliced the tomatoes and cheese, arranging them on a platter with the fragrant basil leaves. Drizzling them with the golden olive oil and dark balsamic vinegar, I marveled at how such simple ingredients could come together to create something so delicious.

As I took my first bite of the Insalata Caprese, I was transported back to that bustling market in Italy. The flavors danced on my tongue, each ingredient complementing the others perfectly. I knew then that this dish would become a staple in my repertoire, a taste of Italy that I would savor and share with my loved ones for years to come.

Over the years, I have made Insalata Caprese countless times, each batch reminding me of that fateful day in the market. I have tweaked the recipe here and there, adding a pinch of sea salt or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper to enhance the flavors. I have also shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of this simple yet exquisite dish.

As I reflect on the journey that led me to discover Insalata Caprese, I am filled with gratitude for the kind old woman who shared her recipe with me. Her generosity and passion for cooking inspired me to step out of my comfort zone and explore new flavors and techniques. I am forever thankful for the memories and flavors that this dish has brought into my life, a reminder of the simple joys that can be found in a delicious meal shared with loved ones.