Mozzarella Salad
A vibrant Italian-inspired salad featuring creamy mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and spinach, dressed with lemon and olive oil for a flavorful, light appetizer or main course.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove sun-dried tomatoes from marinade and cut into thin strips.
- Combine mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, lemon juice, chopped basil, salt, and white pepper in a medium bowl.
- Add enough extra virgin olive oil to cover the mixture and marinate for at least 2 hours.
- Arrange washed, dried, and cut spinach on a chilled platter.
- Pour the marinated cheese mixture over the spinach before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using burrata cheese instead of mozzarella. If you can't find marinated sun-dried tomatoes, you can use dry ones soaked in olive oil and herbs. Fresh herbs like oregano or parsley can also enhance the dish. Be careful not to over-marinate the cheese; two hours is ideal for balancing the flavors without losing the fresh taste.
Serving Suggestions
This mozzarella salad pairs beautifully with Italian Fruit Salad for a refreshing meal. Serve it as a light appetizer or alongside grilled meats for a hearty dinner. Crusty bread or pita chips can complement the dish, making it perfect for a summer picnic or outdoor gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The spinach may wilt, so it's best to keep it separate if possible. To refresh the salad before serving, add a splash of lemon juice and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to revive the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mozzarella Salad contains roughly 300 calories, with 9g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (52% of the Daily Value), iron (51% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. It also contributes 13g 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 make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese mixture up to 24 hours in advance. However, it's best to add the spinach just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp. Marinating the cheese in advance will deepen the flavors.
What can I substitute for fresh basil?
If fresh basil is unavailable, you can use fresh parsley or even arugula for a peppery kick. Dried basil can work in a pinch, but use it sparingly as it has a more concentrated flavor. Experimenting with different herbs can give the salad a unique twist.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
While the cheese mixture can be prepped ahead, the spinach is best added fresh to maintain its texture. Consider portioning the cheese mixture into individual containers with a side of spinach for a quick and easy meal prep option that's great for lunches.
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).