Isalata Alassio
Isalata Alassio is a fresh Italian appetizer featuring ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, basil, and a simple dressing of olive oil and vinegar, perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- On a platter, arrange alternating slices of tomato and mozzarella.
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh basil.
- Drizzle with olive oil and vinegar.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately and enjoy with barbecue or hot weather meals.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use ripe, in-season tomatoes and fresh mozzarella. If you can't find fresh mozzarella, a good quality low-moisture mozzarella will work in a pinch. To enhance the dish, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for a touch of sweetness. This is a great dish for summer barbecues, similar to a Mozzarella Salad.
Serving Suggestions
This Isalata Alassio is perfect as a light appetizer or side dish for grilled meats. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread and a refreshing Italian Fruit Salad. For a complete meal, serve alongside Pasta House Tortellini. Enjoy it outdoors on a warm day, making it ideal for barbecues and picnics.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the tomatoes from getting mushy, try to separate them from the mozzarella in storage. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to reheat it, do so gently in a microwave, avoiding high heat to prevent the mozzarella from becoming rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Isalata Alassio contains roughly 81 calories, with 5g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (52% of the Daily Value) and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of cheese instead of mozzarella?
Yes, while fresh mozzarella is traditional, you can experiment with burrata for a creamier texture or even goat cheese for a tangy flavor. Just ensure the cheese complements the tomatoes and basil for the best taste.
What type of tomatoes work best for this recipe?
Heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes are ideal due to their rich flavor and juicy texture. Avoid using overly watery tomatoes, as they can make the dish soggy. Choose tomatoes that are firm yet slightly soft to the touch.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It's best to prepare Isalata Alassio just before serving to maintain the freshness of the ingredients. However, you can slice the tomatoes and mozzarella a few hours in advance and store them separately in the fridge to save time.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).