Recipe Central – Caprese Salad

There are lots of variations to this recipe but this is by far my favorite. It’s simple to make yet hearty and pleasing to the palate. And if you’re eating for one, simply cut the recipe in half or plan on taking leftovers to lunch the next day. I prefer heirloom tomatoes (Cherokee Purple) for their full bodied flavor and color palette which covers the whole spectrum of the rainbow. They do tend to have a shorter shelf life than the average supermarket variety so plan on eating within a few days of purchase depending on ripeness.

Not only are heirloom tomatoes far more rich to taste, but they also pack more of a nutritional punch over the traditional supermarket varieties, all of which contain important cancer fighting properties including essential vitamins and antioxidants. Where can they be found? At local farmers markets and natural food stores although some supermarkets are now starting to carry this variety due to popularity.

Another option is to grow your own if you have the garden space. Seeds are available from many organic and heirloom farming catalogs and websites. As the old adage goes, in the sowing of the seed you will reap the rewards of it.

Total Time: 10 min Prep

Yield: 4 to 6 servings

Level: Easy

Ingredients

2-3 heirloom (or supermarket variety) tomatoes, 1/4-inch thick slices 1/2 pound fresh mozzarella cheese pearls or ball cut into 1/4-inch thick slices 10 to 20 leaves fresh basil Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling Ground sea salt and black pepper to taste For bolder flavor, season with your favorite herb and spice blend (thyme, oregano, rosemary)

Directions

On a large platter, alternate and overlap the tomato slices, mozzarella cheese slices, and basil leaves. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil and season with sea salt and black pepper to taste. For bolder flavor, season with your favorite herb and spice blend.

Don’t have 10 minutes to spare? Substitute cherry tomatoes for vine ripe tomatoes and simply throw ingredients in a salad bowl and blend.

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