RECIPE MAGIC!

ITALY'S SUMMER TOMATO SALAD

CLASSIC CAPRESE SALAD

Italy's Caprese salad is a simple dish that showcases juicy, ripe tomatoes complemented by the creamy, mild taste of fresh mozzarella cheese. Fragrant basil leaves add a bright, herbaceous note to the dish. Extra virgin olive oil and a silky aged dark balsamic crown the essence of Italian cuisine. When tomatoes are out of season buy the highest quality cocktail tomatoes to enjoy this classic salad anytime of year. 

INGREDIENTS:

12 to 14 cherry tomatoes, cut in half, or 6 medium tomatoes cut in 1/4" slices 
1/4 to 1/2 cup Tuscan Herb fresh extra virgin olive oil
Regular or infused sea salts (extra for topping)
1/2 lb fresh buffalo mozzarella torn or sliced in 1/2" pieces
Freshly ground black pepper
Fresh basil leaves (no stems) 
1/4 cup Traditional Aged Dark Balsamic or super-aged Denissimo

Note: Try using a variety of fresh-from-the-farm tomato types for colour and flavour

DIRECTIONS:

In a medium bowl, gently toss tomato pieces with 1 tbsp oil and a sprinkle of sea salt. Place slices (or halves) on a large plate or platter. Sprinkle a generous amount of sea salt, to taste. Place cheese over tomatoes. Drizzle generously with remaining olive oil. Top with basil leaves. Then add a generous drizzle of dark balsamic across the entire plate or platter. Serve as a side or with country bread as a light meal or appetizer. 

Optional: Place EVOO and balsamic in squeeze bottle. Shake until well blended and creamy. Drizzle generously over cheese and tomatoes.