Brighten up your table with this irresistible Mozzarella and Tomato Salad with Italian Basil Salad Dressing—a classic recipe that celebrates the vibrant flavors of fresh ingredients. Juicy ripe tomatoes and creamy mozzarella (sliced or bocconcini) are layered beautifully and brought to life with a zesty homemade basil-infused dressing made from extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and a hint of garlic. Fresh basil leaves add a fragrant, herby finish to this 15-minute no-cook dish that’s perfect as a refreshing appetizer, a stunning side dish, or even a light meal when paired with crusty bread. Effortless yet elegant, this salad is quintessentially Mediterranean and the perfect addition to any al fresco dining experience.
1. Start by preparing the salad dressing. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, honey, salt, and black pepper until fully combined. Set the dressing aside to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Wash and dry the tomatoes and fresh basil leaves. Slice the tomatoes into even-sized rounds or wedges, depending on your preference.
3. If using a large ball of fresh mozzarella, slice it evenly into rounds. If you're using bocconcini, simply drain and pat them dry with a paper towel.
4. On a serving platter or individual plates, arrange alternating layers of tomatoes and mozzarella slices in a circular or overlapping pattern.
5. Drizzle the prepared basil dressing generously over the salad, ensuring that every layer is lightly coated.
6. Tear the fresh basil leaves into smaller pieces with your hands (to avoid bruising them) and scatter the basil over the top of the salad as a garnish.
7. Serve immediately as a refreshing appetizer, or pair it with crusty bread for a light meal.
Calories |
1200 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 97.7 g | 125% | |
| Saturated Fat | 32.5 g | 162% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 107 mg | 36% | |
| Sodium | 1562 mg | 68% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 32.1 g | 12% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.6 g | 16% | |
| Total Sugars | 25.5 g | ||
| Protein | 46.8 g | 94% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 796 mg | 61% | |
| Iron | 3.7 mg | 21% | |
| Potassium | 1024 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.