Easy Breezy Caprese Salad (Gluten-Free)

Celiac.com 08/26/2023 - Italian Caprese salad is a timeless and iconic dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors in a harmonious symphony of colors, textures, and tastes. Hailing from the sun-kissed shores of Italy, this simple yet elegant salad showcases the beauty of minimalism by combining just a handful of fresh and naturally gluten-free ingredients that come together to create an unforgettable culinary experience.

What truly elevates the Caprese salad beyond its simplicity is the quality of its components. Opting for locally grown, vine-ripened tomatoes and opting for the highest quality mozzarella—whether it's classic buffalo mozzarella or fresh, creamy burrata—makes all the difference. A drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil imparts a touch of grassy complexity, while a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and a dash of freshly ground black pepper tie everything together, enhancing each individual flavor note without overpowering the ensemble.

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Ingredients:

• 3 large heirloom tomatoes, sliced to about ½ inch
• 1 (16 ounce) package fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced a bit thinner than the tomato
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and ground black pepper to taste

Directions:
Arrange tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil leaves on a serving plate, alternating between them. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Italian Caprese salad isn't just a dish; it's a celebration of seasonal produce and the Italian way of savoring life's simplest pleasures. With every bite, you're transported to the rustic countryside and the sun-drenched coastal villages of Italy, where the beauty of nature's bounty takes center stage, and the symphony of flavors dances on your palate, leaving an indelible memory of a perfect summer day.

Grab a glass of your favorite chilled white or rosé wine, and enjoy the flavors of summer!