Insalata Capri

Insalata Capri Recipe - Authentic Italian Salad with Avocado, Mozzarella, and Tomato

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Servings: 2

Introduction

Insalata Capri is a classic Italian salad that features fresh and simple ingredients that come together to create a delicious and visually appealing dish. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a refreshing side dish for a summer meal.

History

Insalata Capri originated on the island of Capri, located off the coast of Italy. The salad is a celebration of the fresh and vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean, with ripe avocados, tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella taking center stage.

Ingredients

2 ripe california avocados (one for each serving)
1 ball of fresh mozzarella cheese - about 8-10 oz (283 g) (use half for each salad)
1 or 2 garden ripe tomatoes, number depends on the size of tomatoes
Fresh basil leaves
High quality Spanish or Italian olive oil
salt and pepper to taste

How to prepare

Cut the California avocados in half, remove the seeds, and peel them.
Slice the California avocado halves vertically into thin slices and arrange them on a salad by placing them in a decorative circle.
Use only fresh mozzarella. It is essential for the salad to use high-quality mozzarella available in specialty markets.
Slice the mozzarella into 0.13" thick circles and place them overlapping on top of the California avocados.
Cut the tomatoes into 0.25" thick circles and overlap them on top of the mozzarella, creating a green ring of avocado, a white ring of cheese, and a red ring of tomatoes on the plate.
Top the salad with fresh basil leaves that are thinly sliced. The amount of basil can vary based on personal preference.
Dress the salad with a splash (or more) of olive oil.
Add black pepper and salt to taste.

Variations

Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for extra flavor and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

When selecting avocados for this salad, choose ones that are ripe but still firm. This will ensure that they hold their shape when sliced. Additionally, be sure to use high-quality mozzarella for the best flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Insalata Capri as a light lunch or as a side dish with grilled fish or chicken.

Cooking Techniques

Use a sharp knife to slice the avocados, tomatoes, and mozzarella thinly and evenly for a beautiful presentation.

Ingredient Substitutions

If fresh mozzarella is not available, you can use burrata or fior di latte as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the components of Insalata Capri ahead of time and assemble the salad just before serving to keep it fresh.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the avocado, mozzarella, and tomatoes in a decorative pattern on a large platter for a stunning presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Insalata Capri with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Insalata Capri is best enjoyed fresh and should not be stored for long periods of time. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Insalata Capri contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Insalata Capri contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Insalata Capri contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Insalata Capri contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

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

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (mozzarella cheese) and tree nuts (avocado).

Summary

Insalata Capri is a nutritious and delicious salad that is rich in fats, proteins, and vitamins. It is a great option for a light and refreshing meal.

Summary

Insalata Capri is a simple yet elegant salad that showcases the fresh flavors of the Mediterranean. With ripe avocados, tomatoes, and mozzarella, this salad is a perfect addition to any meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Insalata Capri. It was a warm summer day many years ago, and I was on vacation in Italy with my husband. We had just arrived on the beautiful island of Capri and were exploring the local markets and shops.

As we walked through the bustling streets, the tantalizing smells of fresh herbs and ripe tomatoes filled the air. I couldn't help but be drawn to a small food stand where a friendly old woman was selling her homemade salads. One of the salads caught my eye - a colorful mix of cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil leaves, and olives, dressed with a simple vinaigrette.

I decided to buy a small container of the salad to try, and as soon as I took my first bite, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself. The flavors were so bright and fresh, a perfect reflection of the sunny island we were visiting. I asked the old woman for the recipe, but she simply chuckled and told me that it was a family secret passed down through generations.

Determined to recreate the salad at home, I spent the rest of our vacation observing the local chefs and talking to the vendors at the markets. I picked up tips and tricks along the way, learning about the importance of using the freshest ingredients and balancing flavors to create a harmonious dish.

When we returned home, I set to work in my kitchen, experimenting with different combinations of tomatoes, mozzarella, and herbs. After several attempts, I finally landed on the perfect recipe for Insalata Capri - a dish that would become a staple at family gatherings and dinner parties for years to come.

The key to making a delicious Insalata Capri, I discovered, lies in the quality of the ingredients. I always make sure to use the ripest cherry tomatoes I can find, preferably ones that are still warm from the sun. I also seek out the creamiest, freshest mozzarella and the most fragrant basil leaves, plucked straight from my herb garden.

For the vinaigrette, I combine extra virgin olive oil, a splash of red wine vinegar, a pinch of salt, and a sprinkle of dried oregano. The dressing is simple yet flavorful, allowing the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and the creaminess of the mozzarella to shine through.

As I toss the ingredients together in a large bowl, I am transported back to that sunny day on the island of Capri. I can almost hear the sounds of the bustling market and feel the warmth of the Mediterranean sun on my skin. It's amazing how a simple salad can evoke such vivid memories and emotions.

Over the years, I have shared my recipe for Insalata Capri with friends and family, passing down the tradition of making this delicious dish. Each time I prepare it, I think of that kind old woman on the streets of Capri, who unknowingly sparked my passion for cooking and inspired me to create something truly special.

As I take a bite of the finished salad, savoring the burst of flavors in my mouth, I am grateful for the journey that led me to this recipe. It's a reminder that sometimes the best things in life are found when we least expect them, waiting to be discovered in the most unexpected places. And for me, that place will always be the enchanting island of Capri.