Roasted Tomato Caprese Salad: A Delicious & Easy Recipe
This Roasted Tomato Caprese Salad brings a twist to the classic Caprese salad by using roasted tomatoes, which enhance the natural sweetness and depth of flavor. Combined with fresh mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil, this dish is both flavorful and refreshing—perfect as a side dish or light meal.
Ingredients:
-
4 medium tomatoes, sliced into thick rounds
-
8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
-
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus whole leaves for garnish)
-
2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
-
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
-
Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
Instructions:
Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes
-
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
-
Arrange the sliced tomatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
-
Roast the tomatoes for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are soft and slightly caramelized. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
-
On a serving platter, layer the roasted tomatoes with slices of fresh mozzarella.
-
Drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the tomatoes and cheese.
Step 3: Add Basil and Season
-
Sprinkle the chopped basil over the salad, and garnish with whole basil leaves.
-
Drizzle with a little extra olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
If you like a bit of heat, you can add red pepper flakes at this stage.
Step 4: Serve
-
Serve immediately while the tomatoes are still warm, or chill slightly if you prefer it cooler. This salad pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or as an accompaniment to grilled meats.
Why This Recipe Works:
The roasting process intensifies the tomatoes’ natural sweetness, making them perfect when paired with the creamy mozzarella and fresh basil. The balsamic vinegar adds depth, and the olive oil provides richness, bringing everything together in a satisfying way. This simple yet flavorful twist on the classic Caprese salad will surely become a favorite!
Q&A:
Q: Can I use cherry or grape tomatoes instead of regular tomatoes?
A: Yes! Cherry or grape tomatoes will work well, but keep in mind that they cook much faster than larger tomatoes, so keep an eye on them while roasting. You might want to reduce the roasting time to 10-15 minutes.
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: This salad is best served fresh, but you can prepare the tomatoes and mozzarella in advance. Store the roasted tomatoes and fresh mozzarella separately in the refrigerator, and assemble the salad just before serving to maintain the best texture.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: While fresh mozzarella is ideal for a Caprese salad, you can use other cheeses like burrata, ricotta, or even goat cheese if you prefer. Each cheese will add a different texture and flavor, so feel free to experiment!
Q: Can I add some protein to make this a complete meal?
A: Absolutely! This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even steak. It also goes great with a scoop of quinoa or chickpeas if you’re looking for a plant-based option.
Q: How do I store leftover salad?
A: If you have leftovers, store the components (tomatoes, mozzarella, basil) separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The salad is best when fresh, but it can be stored for up to 1 day. Just keep in mind that the tomatoes might release more liquid as they sit.
Q: Can I use a balsamic glaze instead of balsamic vinegar?
A: Yes, you can use balsamic glaze for a sweeter, thicker finish. Drizzle it over the salad just before serving for a touch of extra sweetness and richness.