Looking for a simple and refreshing summer salad? This easy tomato and mozzarella salad recipe is the perfect dish to enjoy all season long. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious and healthy salad on the table in minutes.
This classic Italian salad combines ripe, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil leaves. Dressed with a flavorful combination of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper, it’s a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Not only is this salad delicious, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can customize it to your liking by adding different ingredients or adjusting the seasonings. Read on for a step-by-step guide on how to make this refreshing salad, along with tips and variations to make it your own.
How To Make Tomato and Mozzarella Salad
Making a tomato and mozzarella salad is incredibly easy and requires minimal effort.
Ingredients:
* 1 pound ripe tomatoes, sliced
* 1 ball fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
* 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
* 1/4 cup olive oil
* 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
* Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment:
* Cutting board
* Knife
* Large bowl
* Mixing spoons
Instructions:
1. Start by slicing the tomatoes and mozzarella cheese into uniform pieces. Aim for 1/2-inch thick slices for both the tomatoes and the mozzarella.
2. Place the sliced tomatoes and mozzarella in a large bowl. Add the torn basil leaves and gently toss to combine.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to coat all the ingredients.
4. Serve the salad immediately and enjoy the flavors of fresh summer produce. You can also refrigerate the salad for later, but let it come to room temperature before serving to fully appreciate the flavors.
Tips and Possible Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to enhance your tomato and mozzarella salad:
* For a sweeter salad, use ripe heirloom tomatoes or cherry tomatoes.
* Add other vegetables to the salad, such as sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, or zucchini.
* For a more flavorful salad, use aged balsamic vinegar or add a drizzle of honey to the dressing.
* If you don’t have fresh basil leaves, you can substitute dried basil flakes.
* Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the salad for a protein boost.
* Experiment with different types of cheeses, such as burrata, feta, or goat cheese.
No matter how you choose to customize it, this classic tomato and mozzarella salad is a refreshing and delicious dish that will become a staple in your summer cooking repertoire.
Enjoy the bright flavors and simple elegance of this beloved salad, perfect for any occasion. From casual picnics to elegant dinner parties, this dish is sure to delight your guests and leave them craving for more.
