Tomato-Cucumber Stack

Italian Tomato-Cucumber Stack Recipe with Mozzarella and Basil

Region / culture: Italy | Servings: 4

Introduction

This refreshing Tomato-Cucumber Stack recipe is a perfect dish for a light and healthy meal. The combination of fresh vegetables, herbs, and a tangy vinaigrette creates a burst of flavors in every bite.

History

The Tomato-Cucumber Stack recipe is a modern twist on the classic Caprese salad. The traditional Caprese salad originated in Italy and consists of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. This recipe adds cucumber and red onion to the mix for added crunch and flavor.

Ingredients

1 medium cucumber, sliced 0.25 inch
2 – 3 tomatoes, sliced 0.25 inch (preferably vine-ripened)
0.25 red onion, very thinly sliced
8 large fresh basil leaves, chopped
3 tbsp good quality balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp good quality olive oil
2 – 3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pinch sugar
1 pinch red pepper flakes
fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced 0.25 inch (formaggio di buffalo)

How to prepare

Combine vinegar and oil in a small bowl; whisk in garlic, sugar, and red pepper flakes.
Arrange cucumber, tomato, onion, and mozzarella in individual stacks or together on a serving platter.
Repeat layers as necessary.
Scatter basil leaves liberally.
Drizzle vinaigrette over the salad.
For best results, let the flavors marinate for one hour.

Variations

Add avocado slices for extra creaminess.
Use different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese.
Add grilled shrimp or chicken for a protein boost.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor.

- Slice the vegetables thinly and evenly for a beautiful presentation.

- Let the salad marinate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Use high-quality balsamic vinegar and olive oil for the best taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Tomato-Cucumber Stack as a light lunch or appetizer. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Use a sharp knife to slice the vegetables thinly and evenly.

- Whisk the vinaigrette ingredients together in a small bowl for a smooth dressing.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use red wine vinegar or lemon juice in place of balsamic vinegar.

- Substitute fresh mint or parsley for basil.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Tomato-Cucumber Stack up to a few hours in advance. Keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the Tomato-Cucumber Stack on a large platter for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with extra basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Tomato-Cucumber Stack with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Tomato-Cucumber Stack contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Tomato-Cucumber Stack contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Tomato-Cucumber Stack contains approximately 8 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Tomato-Cucumber Stack contains approximately 6 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Tomatoes are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as potassium and folate. Cucumbers are a good source of vitamin K and potassium. Basil is rich in vitamin K and manganese.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (mozzarella cheese) and garlic, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

The Tomato-Cucumber Stack is a low-calorie, nutrient-rich dish that is high in vitamins and minerals. It is a healthy and delicious option for a light meal or appetizer.

Summary

The Tomato-Cucumber Stack is a simple yet elegant dish that is perfect for a light and healthy meal. With fresh vegetables, herbs, and a tangy vinaigrette, this recipe is sure to impress your guests. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of awe. It was a hot summer day, and I was attending a potluck picnic with some friends. As we all gathered around the table, my friend Mary unveiled her creation - a beautiful Tomato-Cucumber Stack.

The dish was simple yet elegant, with layers of ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and tangy feta cheese stacked high on a serving platter. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors immediately caught my eye, and I knew I had to learn how to make it.

I approached Mary and asked her for the recipe, eager to recreate the dish for my own family. She smiled and told me that it was a family recipe passed down from her grandmother, who had learned it from a Greek friend many years ago.

I was intrigued by the story behind the recipe and asked Mary if she would be willing to teach me how to make it. She agreed, and we set a date for a cooking lesson at her house.

When the day arrived, I arrived at Mary's house with a notebook and pen in hand, ready to learn the secrets of the Tomato-Cucumber Stack. Mary welcomed me into her kitchen, where she had all the ingredients laid out and ready to go.

We started by slicing the tomatoes and cucumbers into thin rounds, taking care to keep them uniform in size. Mary explained that the key to a good Tomato-Cucumber Stack was in the presentation, so it was important to make sure each slice was perfect.

Next, we prepared the dressing for the dish. Mary whisked together olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. The dressing was light and flavorful, with just the right amount of tanginess to complement the fresh vegetables.

Once the ingredients were prepped, it was time to assemble the stack. We started by layering slices of tomato on a serving platter, followed by a sprinkle of feta cheese and a drizzle of dressing. Next came a layer of cucumber slices, repeating the process until we had created a towering stack of deliciousness.

As we worked, Mary shared stories about her grandmother and the Greek friend who had first introduced her to the recipe. She talked about how food had the power to bring people together and create lasting memories, a sentiment that resonated with me deeply.

After we had finished assembling the Tomato-Cucumber Stack, Mary handed me a fork and invited me to take the first bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth - the juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and creamy feta cheese combined perfectly with the zesty dressing.

I was hooked. From that day on, the Tomato-Cucumber Stack became a staple at family gatherings and potluck picnics. I shared the recipe with my own children, passing down the tradition of creating beautiful and delicious dishes to the next generation.

As the years went by, I continued to experiment with the recipe, adding my own twist by incorporating fresh herbs or a sprinkle of toasted nuts. Each variation brought new depths of flavor to the dish, yet the essence of the Tomato-Cucumber Stack remained true to its roots.

Now, whenever I make the Tomato-Cucumber Stack, I think of Mary and her grandmother, and the love and care they poured into the dish. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from them and carry on their legacy through the simple act of cooking.

In a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, the comfort of a good meal shared with loved ones is a constant source of joy and connection. And for me, the Tomato-Cucumber Stack will always hold a special place in my heart as a reminder of the power of food to bring people together.