Description
A delightful and refreshing summer salad that balances the sweetness of ripe cherry tomatoes with the creamy richness of fresh mozzarella. This vibrant dish is elevated by aromatic, hand-torn basil and a delicate emulsion of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil. Perfect as a quick side for any gathering, it is a sophisticated, light, and healthy crowd-pleaser that celebrates simple, high-quality ingredients.
Ingredients
2 pints cherry tomatoes, halved
8 oz fresh mozzarella pearls (ciliegine), drained
1 bunch fresh basil, hand-torn
3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 tbsp balsamic glaze (optional)
1/2 tsp flaky sea salt
1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
Wash the cherry tomatoes and slice them in half.
Drain the mozzarella pearls well in a colander.
Stack the basil leaves and tear them by hand or chiffonade them.
Combine the tomato halves and mozzarella in a medium glass bowl.
Drizzle with olive oil and season with sea salt and black pepper.
Toss carefully with a silicone spatula to coat evenly without bruising the ingredients.
Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors and juices to meld.
Drizzle with optional balsamic glaze just before serving.
Notes
Using mixed-color cherry tomatoes adds a beautiful visual appeal to the dish. Letting the salad sit for 5-10 minutes allows the tomatoes to release their juices, creating a delicious dressing with the olive oil and salt. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Prep Time: 10
- Category: Meals
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 30mg