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Writer's pictureDE MODE

"A GUIDE TO COOKING CAPRESE SALAD WITH SEASONAL PRODUCE": DE MODE GLOBAL

Updated: Jun 14, 2023

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN DE MODE

Article Published on: 11TH JUNE 2023 | www.demodemagazine.com


Caprese Salad is a classic Italian dish that celebrates the flavors of summer. It's a simple and refreshing salad that highlights the sweetness of ripe tomatoes, the creaminess of fresh mozzarella cheese, and the aromatic freshness of basil leaves. When preparing Caprese Salad with seasonal produce, it's essential to choose the best quality ingredients that are at their peak ripeness. Here is a guide to cooking Caprese Salad with seasonal produce:

Photo by Grooveland Designs

Ingredients:

  • Ripe tomatoes: Look for tomatoes that are firm yet slightly yielding to the touch. Heirloom tomatoes or vine-ripened tomatoes are excellent choices for their rich flavor.

  • Fresh mozzarella cheese: Opt for buffalo mozzarella or mozzarella di bufala for its creamy texture and delicate taste. Alternatively, you can use fresh cow's milk mozzarella.

  • Fresh basil leaves: Choose vibrant, aromatic basil leaves that are not wilted or discolored.

  • Extra-virgin olive oil: Use a high-quality extra-virgin olive oil for its fruity flavor and smooth finish.

  • Balsamic glaze: Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad for a sweet and tangy contrast.

  • Salt and pepper: Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste.

Photo by Lea Schmer

Instructions:

  1. Slice the tomatoes: Wash and pat dry the tomatoes. Slice them into ¼-inch thick rounds. If using larger tomatoes, you can also cut them into wedges.

  2. Prepare the mozzarella: Slice the mozzarella cheese into similar-sized rounds as the tomatoes. If the cheese is too soft, you can place it in the refrigerator for a few minutes to firm it up slightly.

  3. Assemble the salad: On a serving platter, alternate layers of tomato slices and mozzarella slices. Tuck fresh basil leaves between the layers. Continue until all the ingredients are used.

  4. Season and dress the salad: Drizzle extra-virgin olive oil over the tomato and mozzarella slices. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Drizzle balsamic glaze generously over the salad.

  5. Serve and enjoy: Caprese Salad is best served immediately to maintain the freshness of the ingredients. The salad can be enjoyed as a light appetizer or as a side dish to accompany grilled meats or crusty bread.

Photo by Table

Tips:

  • To enhance the flavors, you can add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, such as Maldon salt, over the salad just before serving.

  • If you want to add some extra depth of flavor, you can layer thin slices of fresh avocado or prosciutto between the tomato and mozzarella slices.

  • For a twist on the classic Caprese Salad, you can use different varieties of tomatoes, such as cherry tomatoes or heirloom tomatoes, to add color and visual interest to the dish.

  • If you prefer a more traditional presentation, you can arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices in a circular pattern on individual plates instead of layering them.

Conclusion: Caprese Salad is a delightful dish that showcases the beauty and flavors of seasonal produce. By using ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, and aromatic basil leaves, you can create a vibrant and delicious salad that embodies the essence of summer. Enjoy this simple yet elegant dish as a refreshing appetizer or a light side dish, and savor the harmonious combination of flavors that only seasonal produce can offer.

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