Caprese Salad

Insalata Caprese

Ingredients

4 medium tomatoes, 2 balls buffalo mozzarella (125g each), 30 fresh basil leaves, 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, flaky sea salt, black pepper

Detail Steps and Procedure

Select Ingredients: 4 ripe but firm medium tomatoes (approx 200g each), 2 balls fresh buffalo mozzarella (125g each), 30 fresh basil leaves, high-quality extra virgin olive oil, flaky sea salt, freshly ground black pepper. Prepare Tomatoes: Core tomatoes, slice into 1/2cm thick rounds using serrated knife. Arrange on paper towel-lined plate, sprinkle lightly with salt, let drain 15 minutes to remove excess moisture. Prepare Mozzarella: Drain mozzarella, pat dry with paper towels. Slice into 1/2cm thick rounds (should yield same number as tomato slices). Assemble Pattern: On large platter, arrange alternating slices: tomato ? mozzarella ? tomato ? mozzarella, slightly overlapping in circular pattern or straight rows. Add Basil: Tuck whole basil leaves between layers, reserving 10 small leaves for garnish. Season Generously: Sprinkle with 1/2 tsp flaky sea salt (Maldon), 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper. First Oil Drizzle: Drizzle with 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil in zigzag pattern. Rest: Let stand at room temperature 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Final Touch: Just before serving, drizzle with additional 1 tbsp olive oil, garnish with remaining basil leaves. Optional: Add few drops of aged balsamic vinegar (aceto balsamico tradizionale) if desired, but traditional version is just oil.

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