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Simple Tomato and Fresh Mozzarella Salad

This salad highlights the juicy, sweet flavor of ripe tomatoes paired with tender, milky mozzarella slices. Fresh basil, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar bring brightness and depth, creating a vibrant, colorful dish with a juicy, tender texture and a pleasing balance of acidity and richness.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups heirloom tomatoes firm, deeply red
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella tender, milky slices
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil torn leaves
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil good quality, peppery
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar thick, sweet, tangy
  • to taste salt and freshly cracked black pepper generous seasoning

Equipment

  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Serving Plate

Method
 

  1. Slice the tomatoes into thick, juicy rounds, feeling the gentle squish as they release their earthy, sweet juice.
  2. Gently tear the fresh basil leaves with your fingers to release their bright aroma, avoiding bruising.
  3. Lay the tomato slices on a serving plate, overlapping them slightly for a colorful, inviting presentation.
  4. Arrange the slices of fresh mozzarella over the tomatoes, handling them gently to keep their soft, elastic texture intact.
  5. Sprinkle the torn basil leaves evenly over the tomatoes and mozzarella, allowing their fragrant oils to infuse the dish.
  6. Drizzle the olive oil in a thin stream over the assembled salad, coating all ingredients lightly to enhance their flavors.
  7. Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a sweet, tangy note, and season generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
  8. Gently toss the ingredients together or serve as-is, allowing the flavors to meld just before eating.