Description
Caprese Salad with Arugula and Fresh Mozzarella
Ingredients:
2 large tomatoes
8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
1 cup fresh arugula
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tsp balsamic glaze (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Salad:
Slice the tomatoes and fresh mozzarella into rounds.
Arrange a layer of arugula on a plate, followed by alternating slices of tomato and mozzarella.
Season and Dress:
Drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the salad.
Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
Garnish (Optional):
For an extra touch, drizzle a small amount of balsamic glaze over the top and garnish with additional fresh basil if desired.
Serve:
This light and refreshing Caprese salad is perfect as a starter or a side dish to any meal!
Let me know if you’d like more recipes!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect salad every time. First, wash and dry all produce. Using a serrated knife, slice the tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Slice the fresh mozzarella to a similar thickness. On a large serving platter or individual plates, create a bed of fresh arugula. Arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices in an alternating, overlapping pattern on top of the greens. This creates a visually appealing presentation.
Next, for the dressing, use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil. Drizzle it evenly across the arranged salad. Season generously with flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper just before serving to prevent the tomatoes from weeping. If using balsamic glaze, add it in a light zigzag pattern for a sweet, tangy contrast.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad pairs beautifully with numerous dishes. Serve it as a stunning starter before a pasta meal like pesto linguine or a classic lasagna. It also makes a fantastic light lunch alongside a crusty baguette or focaccia to soak up the flavorful oils. For a protein-packed main course, top it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or flaky white fish. To complement a summer barbecue, serve it next to grilled steak or vegetables.
How-to Summary
In short, prepare this salad by slicing tomatoes and mozzarella, arranging them over arugula, and drizzling with olive oil, salt, and pepper. The optional balsamic glaze adds a final flavor boost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prep components ahead, but assemble just before serving. Pre-slice cheese and tomatoes, store separately, and keep arugula dry. Assembly prevents a soggy salad.
What can I use instead of fresh mozzarella?
Burrata cheese is a luxurious alternative with a creamy center. For a dairy-free version, try thick slices of marinated tofu or a plant-based mozzarella.
Is balsamic glaze the same as balsamic vinegar?
No. Balsamic glaze is reduced, thick, and sweet. Vinegar is thin and tangy. Do not substitute vinegar directly, as it will pool and overpower.
How do I pick the best tomatoes?
Choose ripe, in-season tomatoes at room temperature. Heirloom varieties offer excellent flavor and color variation.
Can I add other ingredients?
Absolutely. Sliced avocado, peaches, prosciutto, or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts are delicious additions that maintain the salad’s spirit.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold ingredients: Cold tomatoes and cheese mute flavor. Let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before assembling.
- Over-dressing: A light drizzle of oil is sufficient. Too much will make the salad greasy and wilt the arugula.
- Using pre-shredded or low-moisture mozzarella: The creamy texture of fresh mozzarella is essential. Avoid rubbery, packaged substitutes.
- Seasoning too early: Adding salt long before serving draws water out of the tomatoes, creating a watery plate.
- Skipping the pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper is not just garnish; it’s a key flavor component.
Conclusion
This elevated Caprese salad with peppery arugula is a celebration of simple, high-quality ingredients. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-worthy dish that is both visually stunning and deliciously refreshing. It’s a timeless recipe that adapts to any occasion, proving that sometimes the simplest combinations are the most satisfying.