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Caprese Salad with Balsamic Reduction
Dive into the heart of Italy with this exquisite Caprese Salad, a delightful assembly of sun-ripened tomatoes, velvety fresh mozzarella, and aromatic basil leaves. Each bite offers a perfect harmony of flavors, enhanced by a rich homemade balsamic reduction that adds a touch of gourmet sophistication. This dish not only showcases the vibrant colors of summer but also embodies the simplicity of Italian cuisine. Ideal for summer picnics, garden gatherings, or as a light dinner, it's sure to impress both family and friends while leaving them craving more. Historically, the Caprese Salad hails from the island of Capri, where it was created as a tribute to the colors of the Italian flag.
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- Ripe tomatoes
- 4 large, heirloom or vine-ripened
- Fresh mozzarella
- 8 ounces, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup, torn
- Extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons
- Balsamic vinegar
- 1 cup
- Salt
- to taste
- Black pepper
- to taste
Instructions
- To prepare the balsamic reduction, pour 1 cup of balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and allow it to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and let cool.
- While the balsamic reduction cools, slice the ripe tomatoes and fresh mozzarella into 1/4-inch thick slices.
- On a large serving platter, artfully arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices, alternating between them in a circular or overlapping pattern to create an inviting presentation.
- Gently sprinkle the torn basil leaves over the arranged tomato and mozzarella slices, allowing their fragrant aroma to infuse the dish.
- Drizzle 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over the entire salad, followed by a generous drizzle of the cooled balsamic reduction for a sweet and tangy finish.
- Season the salad with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the freshness, and consider pairing with crusty bread or a light bruschetta for an elevated dining experience.
Dietary Information
Servings: 4 • Dish Type: Appetizer/Salad • Prep Time: 15 minutes • Cook Time: 20 minutes (for balsamic reduction) • Calories: 300 • Fat: 20g • Carbs: 15g • Protein: 10g • Sodium: 150mg • Sugar: 8g
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