Brighten up your table with this quick and refreshing Heart-Healthy Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Salad, a flavorful fusion of vibrant produce and creamy indulgence that's as nourishing as it is delicious. Featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, tender fresh mozzarella balls, and aromatic basil leaves, this salad captures the essence of freshness in every bite. A zesty homemade dressing of extra virgin olive oil and lemon juice ties the ingredients together beautifully, while a drizzle of optional balsamic reduction adds a touch of sweet sophistication. Packed with antioxidants and heart-healthy fats, this 15-minute recipe is perfect for a side dish or appetizer that's both wholesome and irresistible. Keywords: heart-healthy salad, cherry tomato and mozzarella salad, easy side dish, quick appetizer recipe, fresh basil salad.
Wash the cherry tomatoes thoroughly and pat them dry with a kitchen towel. Cut each tomato into halves and place them in a large mixing bowl.
Drain the fresh mozzarella balls and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Cut them into halves or quarters, depending on their size, and add them to the bowl with the tomatoes.
Rinse the fresh basil leaves under cold water, dry them thoroughly, and roughly tear them into smaller pieces. Add these to the salad bowl.
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice until well combined. Sprinkle in the salt and black pepper, then whisk once more to ensure even distribution.
Pour the dressing over the tomato, mozzarella, and basil mixture in the large bowl, and gently toss everything together to ensure the ingredients are evenly coated.
Transfer the salad to a serving dish. If desired, drizzle a tablespoon of balsamic reduction over the top for a sweet and tangy finish.
Serve the salad immediately as a refreshing appetizer or side dish, enjoying the burst of flavors and the heart-healthy benefits of this delightful salad.
Calories |
899 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 69.2 g | 89% | |
| Saturated Fat | 28.4 g | 142% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 122 mg | 40% | |
| Sodium | 1018 mg | 44% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 28.4 g | 10% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.1 g | 15% | |
| Total Sugars | 22.3 g | ||
| Protein | 43.5 g | 87% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 864 mg | 66% | |
| Iron | 2.4 mg | 13% | |
| Potassium | 941 mg | 20% | |
*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.