Description
Roasted Tomato Caprese Salad elevates the classic Caprese by roasting juicy tomatoes to intensify their natural sweetness and add a subtle smoky depth. Combined with creamy fresh mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, this vibrant salad delivers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures perfect for a light lunch or elegant starter.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Ripe Tomatoes – medium-sized, firm (quantity as desired for roasting)
- Fresh Mozzarella – 1 ball, sliced
- Fresh Basil Leaves – a handful, fresh
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons, plus more for drizzling
- Balsamic Glaze (optional) – for drizzling
- Sea Salt – to taste
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper – to taste
Instructions
- Prepare and Roast the Tomatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the tomatoes into thick rounds or halves depending on their size. Arrange them on a baking sheet, drizzle lightly with olive oil, season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Roast for about 20 minutes until the edges caramelize and the tomatoes become tender and slightly charred.
- Slice the Fresh Mozzarella: While the tomatoes roast, slice the fresh mozzarella into rounds about the same thickness as your tomatoes to keep the layers balanced and visually appealing.
- Assemble the Salad: On a large platter or individual plates, alternate layers of roasted tomato slices and fresh mozzarella. Tuck fresh basil leaves between the layers to add aromatic freshness and vibrant color.
- Dress and Garnish: Drizzle the assembled salad generously with high-quality extra virgin olive oil and, if using, a balsamic glaze. Finish with a sprinkle of coarse sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance all the flavors.
Notes
- Choose firm but ripe tomatoes to avoid excess wateriness after roasting.
- Do not overcrowd the baking pan; allow space between tomato slices for even roasting and caramelization.
- Add fresh basil last minute to preserve its vibrant flavor and color.
- Use fresh, high-quality mozzarella for the best creamy texture and clean flavor.
- Serve the salad slightly warm or at room temperature for maximal flavor impact.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
Keywords: roasted tomato, caprese salad, fresh mozzarella, basil, summer salad, summer recipe, gluten free, appetizer, vegetarian