Elevate your appetizer or side dish game with this vibrant Balsamic Marinated Tomato and Mozzarella Salad—a perfect harmony of fresh flavors and creamy textures. Featuring sweet cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls (ciliegine), and fragrant basil leaves, all enveloped in a tangy balsamic and olive oil marinade with a hint of garlic, this no-cook recipe is as simple as it is delicious. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s ideal for summer gatherings, pairing beautifully with grilled dishes or as a topping for crusty bread. Bursting with Mediterranean charm and rich in fresh ingredients, this salad is a healthy, quick, and flavorful addition to any meal.
1. Begin by rinsing the cherry tomatoes under cold running water. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.
2. Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and place them in a medium-sized mixing bowl.
3. Drain the fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine) and add them to the mixing bowl with the halved tomatoes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
5. Peel the garlic clove and mince it finely, then stir it into the balsamic mixture.
6. Drizzle the homemade balsamic marinade over the tomatoes and mozzarella, gently tossing to combine evenly.
7. Wash and pat dry the basil leaves. Tear them into smaller pieces or leave them whole if you prefer, then add them to the salad.
8. Allow the salad to sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes for the flavors to meld together.
9. Transfer the salad to a serving dish or plate and garnish with additional fresh basil leaves, if desired.
10. Serve immediately as a side dish, appetizer, or as a topping for crusty bread. Enjoy!
Calories |
937 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 71.0 g | 91% | |
| Saturated Fat | 29.5 g | 148% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 127 mg | 42% | |
| Sodium | 1634 mg | 71% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 29.7 g | 11% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.0 g | 14% | |
| Total Sugars | 23.5 g | ||
| Protein | 45.7 g | 91% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 920 mg | 71% | |
| Iron | 2.9 mg | 16% | |
| Potassium | 1023 mg | 22% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.