Tomatoes And Mozzarella With Basil Vinaigrette
A fresh, flavorful salad featuring ripe tomatoes and creamy mozzarella, drizzled with a vibrant basil vinaigrette. Perfect for summer gatherings or light lunches.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Whisk olive oil, balsamic vinegar, chopped basil, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper in a non-metal bowl.
- Alternately arrange sliced tomatoes and mozzarella in a non-metal casserole dish.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use ripe, in-season tomatoes to enhance flavor. If fresh basil isn't available, consider using dried basil, but use only half the amount. You can also experiment with different types of vinegar for a unique twist. This dish is perfect for showcasing summer's bounty, so feel free to add other garden veggies like cucumbers or bell peppers for added crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the dish chilled as a refreshing appetizer or side. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or crusty bread, making it a perfect complement to a summer barbecue. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light pasta or a green salad. Explore more Mediterranean recipes to enhance your dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain the texture of the mozzarella and tomatoes, avoid reheating. Instead, enjoy the salad cold, which will preserve the freshness of the ingredients and the flavor of the vinaigrette.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomatoes And Mozzarella With Basil Vinaigrette contains roughly 905 calories, with 1g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 100g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1758mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
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 the vinaigrette ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the basil vinaigrette a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator in a sealed container. Give it a good whisk before using, as the ingredients may separate while chilling.
What type of mozzarella is best for this dish?
Fresh mozzarella is ideal for its creamy texture and rich flavor, but regular mozzarella can work in a pinch. If using fresh, try to find it packed in water for extra freshness.
How can I add more flavor to the tomatoes?
Consider sprinkling the sliced tomatoes with a bit of sea salt or a drizzle of extra balsamic vinegar just before serving. This can help enhance their natural sweetness and make them even more delicious.
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).