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Ultimate Summer Salad Recipe with Heirloom Tomatoes and Mozzarella

ultimate summer salad - featured image

A fresh and easy summer salad featuring vibrant heirloom tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and aromatic basil, dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients

  • Heirloom tomatoes, assorted colors and sizes, sliced or chopped
  • Fresh mozzarella, torn or sliced
  • Fresh basil leaves, torn
  • Extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons (30 ml)
  • Balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze, 1 tablespoon (15 ml)
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: thinly sliced red onion or shallots
  • Optional: toasted pine nuts or walnuts

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry the heirloom tomatoes.
  2. Slice or chop the tomatoes into rounds or bite-sized pieces.
  3. Tear the fresh mozzarella into chunks roughly the size of the tomatoes.
  4. Arrange tomatoes and mozzarella on a large platter or bowl, either layered or tossed gently.
  5. Tear fresh basil leaves and scatter over the salad.
  6. Optional: add thinly sliced red onion or shallots sparingly.
  7. Drizzle extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar or glaze over the salad.
  8. Season with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
  9. Optional: sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch.
  10. Gently toss the salad or serve as is, being careful not to break the tomatoes and mozzarella.

Notes

Prepare the salad just before serving to keep tomatoes fresh and prevent sogginess. Use a sharp knife to slice tomatoes gently. Fresh mozzarella torn by hand is preferred over shredded. Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for best flavor. Salt and pepper to taste. Toast nuts before adding for extra crunch. Store leftovers in an airtight container without dressing for up to 2 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: summer salad, heirloom tomatoes, mozzarella, fresh basil, easy salad, healthy salad, vegetarian, gluten-free