Insalata Caprese I

Ingredients and Weight:

• Roma tomatoes: 500g (about 2 large tomatoes)
• Fresh basil leaves: 20-30 leaves
• Mozzarella cheese: 250g (fresh, small cubes or balls)
• Extra virgin olive oil: 4 tablespoons
• Salt and pepper: to taste
• Balsamic vinegar: 1 tablespoon

Preparation Time:

• Preparation: 15 minutes
• Cooking: None (this is a raw dish)
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Difficulty Level:

3 (Moderate) - requires cutting and arranging ingredients.

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Prepare the tomatoes: wash and cut into thin rounds or chunks. Set aside.
2. Arrange the basil leaves on a serving plate or platter.
3. Arrange the tomato pieces on top of the basil.
4. Distribute the mozzarella cubes/balls evenly over the tomatoes.
5. Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over the salad.
6. Add a sprinkle of salt and pepper, as per taste.
7. Finally, add a few drops of balsamic vinegar for flavor and dressing.
8. Serve immediately or after refrigeration for an hour for the flavors to blend.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: Approx. 300 per serving (depending on ingredients used)
• Carbohydrates, Protein, Fat: See nutrition facts on ingredients for detailed breakdown.

Dish Characteristics:

• Classic Italian salad with a simple yet delightful flavor profile.
• Fresh and light, perfect as a starter or side dish.
• The combination of sweet tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil leaves creates a harmonious flavor experience.

User Comments:

1. "Love the simplicity of this salad! It's refreshing and perfect for summer." - John Doe, New York, USA
2. "The balsamic vinegar gives it a great finishing touch, really enhances the flavor." - Jane Smith, Los Angeles, USA
3. "I made this for my family and they loved it! It's now a regular dish at our gatherings." - Michael Johnson, Chicago, USA

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use fresh ingredients for best results. Mozzarella cheese should be fresh and not too soft to maintain its texture in the salad.
• Adjust the amount of vinegar and oil according to your preference for a more robust or lighter dressing.
• If you prefer a more robust flavor, you can add small cubes of boiled potatoes or chunks of cucumber to the salad.