Description
Classic Caprese Salad with Arugula
Caption: A timeless Italian salad with creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and a peppery arugula twist—perfect for any meal!
Ingredients:
For the Caprese:
2 ripe tomatoes, sliced
8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
For the arugula salad:
2 cups fresh arugula
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Prepare the Caprese salad:
Arrange alternating slices of tomato and mozzarella in a row on one side of a large plate. Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Drizzle with olive oil.
Make the arugula salad:
In a small bowl, toss the arugula with olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Assemble the plate:
Place the dressed arugula next to the Caprese salad on the same plate for a beautiful presentation.
Serve and enjoy:
Serve immediately as a light appetizer, side dish, or refreshing snack.
This classic Caprese salad paired with peppery arugula is simple yet elegant, offering a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Buon appetito!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a flawless presentation. First, slice your tomatoes and mozzarella to a similar thickness, about 1/4-inch. On a large serving platter or individual plates, start by creating a base layer of the dressed arugula on one half. On the other half, carefully arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices in an alternating, overlapping pattern—tomato, mozzarella, tomato, mozzarella. This creates the classic Caprese look. Season the arranged slices directly with flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Finally, drizzle the entire platter with a high-quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a stunning starter before a pasta dish. For a light lunch, add a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful olive oil and juices. To make it a more substantial meal, top it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or flaky canned tuna. You can also deconstruct it into a quick, tossed salad by chopping the tomatoes and mozzarella and mixing everything together in a large bowl.
How-to Summary
Slice tomatoes and mozzarella. Toss arugula with oil, lemon, salt, and pepper. Arrange arugula on a plate. Neatly arrange alternating tomato and mozzarella slices next to the greens. Season with salt and pepper, then drizzle with olive oil. Serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the components, but assemble just before serving. Pre-dressed arugula will wilt, and tomatoes can make the plate watery.
What can I use instead of fresh mozzarella?
Burrata is a fantastic, creamier alternative. For a dairy-free version, try thick slices of marinated tofu or ripe avocado.
Is there a substitute for arugula?
Yes. Fresh basil is the classic pairing. Baby spinach, watercress, or mixed greens also work well.
Can I add a balsamic element?
Absolutely. A drizzle of balsamic glaze (reduced balsamic vinegar) adds a sweet-tart contrast. Avoid plain vinegar, as it can be too acidic.
How do I pick the best tomatoes?
Choose tomatoes that are heavy for their size, fragrant at the stem, and yield slightly to gentle pressure. Heirloom varieties add beautiful color.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold mozzarella straight from the fridge. Let it come to room temperature for the best texture and flavor.
- Over-dressing the arugula. A light coating is enough; soggy greens ruin the plate.
- Using under-ripe or mealy tomatoes. The salad’s quality depends on them.
- Adding the salt too early. Salt draws moisture from tomatoes, so add it right before serving.
- Substituting fresh mozzarella with the low-moisture, shredded kind. The creamy texture is essential.
Conclusion
This elevated Caprese Salad with Arugula proves that simple ingredients, treated with care, create an extraordinary dish. The peppery arugula adds a modern, flavorful twist to the timeless Italian combination. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can consistently prepare a salad that is as visually stunning as it is delicious. It’s a perfect demonstration of how minimal effort can yield maximum flavor and elegance for any occasion.