Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that transforms the classic Caprese salad into a gourmet masterpiece! This Caprese Olive Salad with Green Olive Pesto is not just a recipe—it's a vibrant explosion of Mediterranean flavors that will transport you straight to the sun-drenched coastlines of Italy. With its perfect balance of creamy mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a bold green olive pesto, this dish promises to be the star of your next meal, impressing both family and guests with its sophisticated yet incredibly simple preparation.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh mozzarella balls
- Fresh basil leaves
- Green olives, pitted
- Olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the green olive pesto by combining pitted green olives, fresh basil leaves, olive oil, and a pinch of salt in a food processor. Pulse until a smooth, slightly chunky consistency is achieved.
- Wash and carefully halve the cherry tomatoes, ensuring they are clean and dry.
- Drain the fresh mozzarella balls and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the halved cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls.
- Drizzle extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the tomatoes and mozzarella, ensuring even distribution.
- Season the mixture with freshly ground salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add whole fresh basil leaves to the salad, tearing larger leaves into smaller pieces if needed.
- Spoon the prepared green olive pesto over the salad, creating artistic drizzles and dollops.
- Gently toss the salad to ensure the pesto coats the ingredients without breaking the mozzarella or tomatoes.
- Chill the salad for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve immediately in individual bowls or on a large platter, garnishing with additional basil leaves if desired.
Tips
- Use the freshest ingredients possible: High-quality, ripe cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella make all the difference in this recipe.
- Pat ingredients dry: Ensure mozzarella and tomatoes are thoroughly dried to prevent a watery salad and help the pesto cling better.
- Don't over-mix: Gently toss the salad to maintain the integrity of the delicate mozzarella and tomatoes.
- Chill before serving: The 5-10 minute chilling time allows flavors to meld and intensify.
- Serve immediately: This salad is best enjoyed fresh to maintain texture and vibrant colors.
- Optional enhancement: For extra depth, toast some pine nuts and sprinkle them over the salad before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
