Imagine a culinary masterpiece that combines the sweet, juicy burst of fresh strawberries with the creamy, luxurious texture of mozzarella - a match made in foodie heaven! This Italian-inspired Strawberry and Mozzarella Salad is not just a dish; it's a sensory experience that will transform your ordinary meal into an extraordinary feast. In just 10 minutes, you'll create a stunning appetizer that looks like it was crafted by a professional chef but can be easily prepared in your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 ball fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Wash the fresh strawberries under cool running water, then gently pat them dry with a paper towel. Remove the green tops and slice the strawberries into thin rounds.
- Next, take the fresh mozzarella ball and slice it into similar thickness as the strawberries, creating rounds that will complement the fruit.
- In a large serving bowl or on a platter, arrange the sliced strawberries and mozzarella alternately. You can create a visually appealing pattern by layering them or simply placing them side by side.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar and olive oil until well combined. This will serve as your dressing for the salad.
- Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the arranged strawberries and mozzarella. Be generous but ensure that you don’t drown the salad; a light coating is perfect.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. This will enhance the flavors of the strawberries and mozzarella, balancing the sweetness with a hint of savory.
- Finally, garnish the salad with fresh basil leaves. You can either leave the leaves whole for a rustic look or tear them into smaller pieces for a more delicate presentation.
- Serve the salad immediately as a refreshing appetizer or a light side dish. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures!
Tips
- Choose the Freshest Ingredients: Select ripe, deep-red strawberries and high-quality fresh mozzarella for the best flavor.
- Slice with Precision: Use a sharp knife to create uniform, thin slices of both strawberries and mozzarella for a visually appealing presentation.
- Balance Your Dressing: Whisk the balsamic vinegar and olive oil thoroughly to create a smooth, well-integrated vinaigrette.
- Don't Overdress: A light drizzle is key - you want to enhance, not overpower, the natural flavors.
- Serve Immediately: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so prepare and serve right away to maintain the perfect texture and temperature.
- Garnish Creatively: Fresh basil leaves not only add flavor but also provide a beautiful, aromatic finishing touch.
- Experiment with Variations: Try adding toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of honey for an extra layer of complexity.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 40mg
