Tomato And Mozzarella Salad
A fresh and vibrant tomato and mozzarella salad featuring layered slices, aromatic basil, and a tangy vinaigrette—perfect for light lunches or as a side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- On a serving platter, arrange the sliced tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and red onion in overlapping layers.
- In a small bowl, combine vegetable oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, crushed basil, and pepper.
- Sprinkle the vinaigrette mixture over the arranged salad.
- Cover and refrigerate before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use ripe, in-season tomatoes. You can substitute fresh mozzarella with burrata for a creamier texture, or use a vegan cheese for a plant-based option. If you want to enhance the dish, try adding fresh herbs like parsley or oregano. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can also elevate the salad, making it a delightful addition to any Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Tomato and Mozzarella Salad is perfect as a light appetizer or side dish. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or seafood, making it an excellent complement to dishes like Meatballs On A Skewer. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside crusty bread or a refreshing Vegetable And Bread Salad(Fattoush).
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, keep the vinaigrette separate until ready to serve to prevent the tomatoes from becoming mushy. For a quick refresh, consider adding a splash of fresh vinegar or olive oil before serving again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato And Mozzarella Salad contains roughly 158 calories, with 2g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C.
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 salad in advance, but it's best to wait until just before serving to add the vinaigrette. This keeps the tomatoes fresh and prevents them from becoming soggy. You can slice the ingredients and store them separately in the refrigerator.
What types of tomatoes work best for this salad?
Heirloom, Roma, or vine-ripened tomatoes are excellent choices as they offer great flavor and texture. Choose a variety that is ripe but firm for the best results. Mixing different types can also add visual appeal and depth of flavor.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! You can include additional veggies like cucumbers, bell peppers, or avocados for added flavor and texture. Just be sure to adjust the vinaigrette accordingly to balance the flavors. This customization can make it a great base for many vegetarian recipes.
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).