ANTIPASTI - STARTERS
CAPRESE SALAD
Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Italy with our Authentic Buffalo Caprese Salad. This classic dish, a staple of Italian cuisine, elegantly combines simplicity with sophistication, offering a taste that is as refreshing as it is rich in heritage. At its core, the Buffalo Caprese Salad is an ode to the pure flavors of its few, yet high-quality ingredients. We start with the finest Buffalo mozzarella, a cheese celebrated for its creamy texture and delicate, slightly tangy taste. This exquisite cheese, made from the milk of water buffalos in the Campania region of Italy, offers a unique depth of flavor that sets this dish apart. Paired with the mozzarella are ripe, juicy tomatoes, hand-selected for their sweetness and vibrant color. These tomatoes are not just a visual feast but also bring a perfect balance of acidity and freshness to the dish, complementing the richness of the cheese. The salad is adorned with fresh basil leaves, adding a fragrant, herbaceous note that is quintessential to Italian cooking. Each leaf is a small but powerful burst of flavor, enhancing the dish with its aromatic presence. Drizzled over these fresh ingredients is a high-quality extra virgin olive oil, its smooth and fruity profile tying all the elements together. A sprinkle of sea salt and a dash of freshly ground black pepper are the final touches, elevating the natural flavors of the salad. Our Authentic Buffalo Caprese Salad is more than just a dish; it's an experience. It's a celebration of tradition, a testament to the art of simplicity, and a tribute to the rich tapestry of Italian cuisine. Perfect as a starter, a side, or even a light main, this salad promises to transport you to the sun-drenched terraces of Italy with every bite.
Buffalo Caprese Salad that serves 4 guests, here's what you'll need:
Ingredients
- Buffalo Mozzarella: 4 large balls (around 125 grams each)
- Ripe Tomatoes: 4 large, preferably heirloom for their rich flavor and vibrant colors
- Fresh Basil Leaves: A handful (about 20-25 leaves), for garnish and flavor
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 3-4 tablespoons, for drizzling
- Sea Salt: To taste
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper: To taste
- Balsamic Glaze (optional): 2 tablespoons, for drizzling
preparation
Preparation Slice the Mozzarella and Tomatoes: Cut the buffalo mozzarella and tomatoes into even, round slices, about 1/4 inch thick. Assemble the Salad: On a serving platter, alternate slices of mozzarella and tomato. You can arrange them in a circular pattern or in a line for a more modern presentation. Garnish with Basil: Tuck whole basil leaves between the slices of mozzarella and tomato, allowing their green color to contrast beautifully with the white and red. Season and Dress: Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil evenly over the salad. Then, sprinkle sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Add Balsamic Glaze (Optional): For an added depth of flavor and a touch of sweetness, lightly drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad. Serve Immediately: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, allowing the flavors of the ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil to shine through. This simple yet elegant Buffalo Caprese Salad is perfect for a light appetizer or a side dish. It’s a classic Italian recipe that celebrates the freshness of its ingredients, offering a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that are sure to delight your guests..