Tomatoes-Mozzarella Salad
A refreshing Italian-inspired salad featuring ripe tomatoes and creamy mozzarella, drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette, perfect for light lunches or summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer sliced tomatoes and mozzarella cheese in a shallow dish.
- In a small jar with a tight lid, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, chopped parsley, chopped onion, chopped basil, salt, and pepper.
- Cover the jar and shake well to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the layered tomatoes and cheese.
- Cover and refrigerate for several hours, occasionally spooning dressing over the salad before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor in your Tomatoes-Mozzarella Salad. If you can't find skim mozzarella, low-fat mozzarella can be a suitable substitute. For added depth, consider mixing in some diced avocado or even a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Fresh herbs like oregano could also enhance the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs beautifully with Italian recipes like Linguine With Parsley Pesto Sauce or as a refreshing side to grilled meats. Serve it as a light lunch or as an appetizer before a hearty main dish. A crusty bread, such as Fabulous Italian Breadsticks, can complement the salad perfectly, allowing you to soak up the delicious dressing.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The dressing may separate, so give it a gentle shake before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the mozzarella and tomatoes will not hold up well. Serve cold or at room temperature for the best taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomatoes-Mozzarella Salad contains roughly 205 calories, with 10g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (95% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 725mg per serving (32% 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 prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad several hours ahead of time. Just layer the tomatoes and mozzarella as directed, then prepare the dressing and store it separately until you're ready to serve. This will help maintain the freshness of the ingredients.
What type of tomatoes work best for this salad?
Heirloom, beefsteak, or vine-ripened tomatoes are great choices due to their rich flavor and juicy texture. However, any fresh, ripe tomatoes will work well. Just avoid using overripe tomatoes, as they can become mushy and affect the salad's overall texture.
Can I add other ingredients to the salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your salad by adding ingredients like sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, or olives. You could also include protein such as grilled chicken or chickpeas for a more substantial meal. Just be mindful of the balance of flavors and textures.
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).