Ingredients:
- 3 ripe tomatoes and firm
- 250 g of fresh mozzarella (preferably buffalo)
- A handful of leaves of fresh basil
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Balsamic vinegar (optional)
Preparation:
- Thoroughly wash and dry the tomatoes and the basil.
- Cut the tomatoes and mozzarella into slices about 1 cm thick.
- On a large plate or tray, sandwiched slices of tomato and mozzarella, placing between them leaves of basil.
- Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Optionally, you can add a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Serve immediately and enjoy a burst of freshness and flavor.
Nutritional information per Serving (approx.):
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Proteins: 10 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 1 g
A Trip to Italy: History and Origins of the Caprese Salad
The Caprese Salad it is an icon of the Italian cuisine that pays homage to the colors of the flag of the country with its combination of red (tomato), white (mozzarella) and green (basil). Its origin can be traced to the island of Capri, in the region of Campania, where it is believed that arose in the early TWENTIETH century as a dish is fresh and light perfect for the hot summers mediterranean.
Although the exact history of its creation is unknown, one popular theory suggests that the Caprese Salad it was invented by a local chef for the pleasure of tourists and represent with pride the Italian culinary tradition. Since then, it has evolved from being a dish unique to the region to become the standard world of the mediterranean cuisine.
Health benefits
The Caprese Salad not only is it a delight for the palate, but also a nutritional contribution of great value:
- Rich in antioxidants: Tomatoes are an excellent source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that protects the heart and reduces the risk of certain diseases.
- Source of calcium and protein: The mozzarella cheese provides calcium to strengthen the bones and proteins essential for muscle regeneration.
- Healthy fats: The extra virgin olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, known for their benefits for cardiovascular health.
- Low in carbohydrates: Ideal for low-carbohydrate diets or ketogenic.
- Moisturizing and lightweight: Thanks to its high content of water, one option is refreshing, perfect for hot days.
Creative variations of Caprese Salad
While the classic version is a masterpiece by itself, there are several ways to innovate with this recipe without losing its essence:
- Caprese salad with Pesto: Substitute basil leaves for a dollop of pesto for a more intense flavor.
- Caprese with Avocado: Add slices of avocado for a creamy texture and an extra healthy fats.
- Caprese Hot: Gratina the mozzarella cheese and serve on a bed of tomatoes baked with garlic.
- Caprese with Fruits: Changes the tomatoes for strawberries or peaches for a touch of sweet and different.
- Pinchos Caprese: In place of sliced, and threading ingredients on skewers for an elegant presentation and practice.
Suggestions to go along with it
The Caprese Salad it is extremely versatile and can be accompanied by:
- Rustic bread or focaccia: To make the most of the olive oil and the juice of the tomato.
- Dry white wine or rosé: A perfect pairing that enhances the freshness of the ingredients.
- Pasta or risotto: For a complete meal, and balanced with a mediterranean flavor.
- Serrano ham or prosciutto: For a contrast salty and sophisticated.
Curious details of the Caprese Salad you didn't Know about
- In Italy, a true Caprese it is made exclusively with mozzarella cheese, as their flavor and texture are superior to cows milk mozzarella.
- It is said that it was one of the favorite dishes of the monarchs of Italian and that, in the 1950s, he gained popularity thanks to the visit of king Faruq of Egypt to Capri.
- In some regions of Italy, served with a pinch of dried oregano to highlight their flavors.
Conclusion: A Classic that Never Goes out of Fashion
The Caprese Salad it is proof that simplicity can be synonymous with sophistication. With only three main ingredients, manages to capture the essence of the Italian cuisine and providing a unique dining experience. Either as input, accompaniment, or main dish, freshness and balance make it a healthy option and delicious for any occasion.
I dare to prepare it and tell us in the comments what is your favorite version! 🌿🍅
