Caprese Salad with Balsamic Reduction

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This Caprese Salad with a balsamic reduction is a classic Italian dish that is both fresh and flavorful. Combining ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, this dish is perfect as a starter, side dish, or even a light meal. It’s simple to prepare yet full of vibrant, bold flavors that everyone will love.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • Balsamic vinegar: 1 cup (for the reduction)
  • Honey: ¼ cup
  • Large tomatoes: 3, cut into 1/2-inch slices (choose ripe and firm tomatoes)
  • Fresh mozzarella cheese: 1 (16-ounce) package, cut into 1/4-inch slices
  • Salt: ¼ teaspoon
  • Ground black pepper: ¼ teaspoon
  • Fresh basil leaves: ½ cup, whole or torn
  • Extra-virgin olive oil: ¼ cup

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Balsamic Reduction

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup balsamic vinegar and ¼ cup honey.
  2. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced by half and thickened into a syrup-like consistency.
  3. Cool: Remove from heat and allow the balsamic reduction to cool. It will continue to thicken as it cools.

Step 2: Assemble the Caprese Salad

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Slice the 3 large tomatoes into 1/2-inch thick slices and the fresh mozzarella cheese into 1/4-inch thick slices.
  2. Layer the Salad: On a serving platter, alternate slices of tomato and mozzarella, slightly overlapping them. Place a fresh basil leaf between each layer of tomato and mozzarella for extra flavor and a burst of color.
  3. Season: Sprinkle ¼ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of ground black pepper evenly over the salad to season it.

Step 3: Add Olive Oil and Balsamic Reduction

  1. Drizzle with Olive Oil: Drizzle ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil evenly over the salad to enhance the flavors and add richness.
  2. Drizzle with Balsamic Reduction: Using a spoon or drizzle bottle, lightly drizzle the cooled balsamic reduction over the entire salad. You can add more or less to taste, depending on how sweet and tangy you like it.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

  1. Final Touches: Garnish the salad with extra whole or torn basil leaves for a fresh and fragrant touch.
  2. Serve: Serve the Caprese Salad immediately, either as a refreshing appetizer or a side dish to complement a main course.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate):

  • Calories: 290 kcal
  • Protein: 16g
  • Fat: 19g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sodium: 450mg

Storage Tips:

  • Refrigeration: Store leftover Caprese Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Keep the balsamic reduction separate and drizzle fresh when serving leftovers.
  • Balsamic Reduction: The balsamic reduction can be stored in a sealed jar or container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before using if it becomes too thick.

Cooking Tips:

  • Tomato Selection: For the best flavor, use ripe, in-season tomatoes. Heirloom varieties work well due to their vibrant color and sweet taste.
  • Fresh Mozzarella: Use high-quality, fresh mozzarella for a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the acidity of the tomatoes and the sweetness of the balsamic reduction.
  • Basil: Fresh basil is essential for this dish. Add whole leaves for a stronger basil flavor, or tear them into smaller pieces for a more subtle taste.
  • Balsamic Reduction: Be careful not to over-reduce the balsamic vinegar, as it can turn too thick or sticky. If it thickens too much, add a teaspoon of water to loosen it up before drizzling.

FAQs:

  • Q: Can I use regular balsamic vinegar instead of making a reduction?
    • A: Yes, you can use regular balsamic vinegar for a quicker version of this salad. However, making a reduction concentrates the flavors and adds a sweet, syrupy texture that enhances the dish.
  • Q: Can I add other ingredients to the Caprese Salad?
    • A: Absolutely! Feel free to add sliced avocado, roasted red peppers, or even a drizzle of pesto for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
  • Q: What can I use instead of mozzarella?
    • A: If you don’t have fresh mozzarella, you can use burrata for a creamier texture or even feta cheese for a slightly tangier flavor.
  • Q: How can I make this salad vegan?
    • A: To make this salad vegan, simply replace the mozzarella cheese with a plant-based alternative like cashew-based mozzarella or tofu.

Conclusion:

This Caprese Salad with Balsamic Reduction is a beautifully simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that is sure to impress. The combination of fresh, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, aromatic basil, and the tangy-sweet balsamic glaze makes it a perfect choice for any meal. It’s versatile enough to be served as an appetizer, a light lunch, or even a side dish for a more elaborate dinner.

The homemade balsamic reduction adds a rich depth of flavor that enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and complements the creaminess of the mozzarella. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can create a stunning dish that tastes as good as it looks.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just making a quick meal for yourself, this Caprese Salad is a delicious and healthy choice that’s full of fresh ingredients and balanced flavors. Enjoy!

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