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SaladEasyItalian
Insalata Caprese
The essence of Italian summer in three colors. This iconic salad layers fresh mozzarella with ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil, unified by extra-virgin olive oil. Named for the island of Capri, it mirrors the Italian tricolore.
⏱️ Prep: 15min0⏰ Total: 15min👥 Serves: 4🌡️ Room Temperature
✓ vegetarian✓ gluten-free
⚠️ Contains: 🥛 Dairy
Ingredients
- 1 lbFresh mozzarella(buffalo mozzarella preferred)
- 4 largeRipe tomatoes(heirloom or vine-ripened)
- 1 bunchFresh basil leaves
- 3 tbspExtra-virgin olive oil
- to tasteFlaky sea salt
- to tasteBlack pepper
📝 Make Ahead
Can be assembled up to 1 hour ahead; add oil and seasoning just before serving.
Instructions
- Slice mozzarella and tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- Arrange alternating slices of tomato and mozzarella on serving platter, overlapping slightly
- Tuck fresh basil leaves between slices
- Drizzle generously with extra-virgin olive oil
- Season with flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Let stand 10 minutes at room temperature before serving
💡 Pro Tips
Use room-temperature mozzarella for best flavor. Peak summer tomatoes are essential - never refrigerate them.
📜 History
Originated on island of Capri off Italy Campania coast. First documented appearance on menu at Grand Hotel Quisisana in 1920s. Associated with Italian Futurism movement. Gained international fame in 1950s when Capri became jet-set destination. King Farouk of Egypt exiled there 1952 reportedly ordered it daily.
Also pairs well with:
ginvodkaprosecco