Mozzarella, Tomato & Basil Plate - Insalata Caprese

This delicious fresh tomato dish is served in your better Italian restaurants. It is so simple and so delicious! Also known as Insalata Caprese, this one of the simplest and most delicious appetizers or salads. To make this dish properly, it requires only the right ingredients and the right season -the season first. This is basically a summer dish from which follow the ingredients: it should be made only with local vine-ripened tomatoes that are red, juicy and flavorful but not overly soft, and preferably unrefrigerated.

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Mozzarella, Tomato & Basil Plate - Insalata Caprese Recipe

Recipe Type: Salad and Salad Dressing, Tomato, Appetizer, Mozzarella Cheese
Cuisine: Italian
Yields: 4 servings
Prep time: 10 min

Ingredients:

1 pound fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/4-inch thick slices*
3 to 4 medium fresh tomatoes, cut into 1/4-inch thick slices
1 bunch of fresh basil leaves
Extra-virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper
2 tablespoons capers rinsed and drained

Preparation:

In a circular design around the side of a serving plate, alternate fresh mozzarella slices on a large platter (or on individual plates if you are doing individual portions) with sliced tomatoes, overlapping for effect.
Tear fresh basil leaves and sprinkle liberally over the slices. Add salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Sprinkle capers over the top.
Just before serving, drizzle on some top-quality extra-virgin olive oil. NOTE: Insalata Caprese should never be allowed to sit in oil for any length of time and become soggy, and no vinegar of any kind goes on true Insalata Caprese!
Makes 4 servings.

Additional Variation Ideas: