Insalate Caprese

A great summertime addition to any meal is the Insalata Caprese. This traditional version, using true mozzarella di bufala, is simple yet the most sublime.

Insalate Caprese is a simple salad originating from the region of Campania in Italy, made of sliced fresh mozzarella di bufala, ripe tomatoes and fresh basil. The secret to the best Caprese salad is the mozzarella di bufala, made from the milk of the domestic water buffalo rather than from cow's milk. It is found in a ball form, with a slightly thick outer layer and creamy inside. If you can’t find mozzarella di bufala in your area, try to use the freshest mozzarella available for the insalata caprese.





Ingredients
3 vine-ripened tomatoes or 2 large beefsteak tomatoes, sliced
1 mozzarella de bufala
10 leaves basil, washed
Olinda Ridge Master Blend extra virgin olive oil
salt and freshly ground black pepper

Preparation

1. Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella.


2. Lay the mozzarella on the plate and top with a slice of tomato and basil leaf on each.


3. Sprinkle with the olive oil, followed by a pinch of salt and pepper.

Serves 2-4

Variation: For larger servings, overlap each unit of mozzarella, tomato and basil leaves with the others.

See a video from Italian Food Net on making the mozzarella and tomato salad.