Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect results

Ingredients

0/11 checked
4
servings
8 unit

fresh mozzarella cheese

cut into 1/2 inch pieces

3 tbsp

extra virgin olive oil

2 tbsp

shallots

minced

2 unit

garlic cloves

minced

0.25 tsp

salt

0.25 tsp

pepper

0.5 unit

fresh basil leaf

1.5 unit

grape tomatoes

cut in half lengthwise

2 unit

romaine lettuce hearts

quartered lengthwise and cut into 1/2 inch pieces

0.25 cup

kalamata olive

pitted, chopped

3 tbsp

red wine vinegar

Step 1
~3 min

Cut mozzarella cheese into 1/2 inch pieces.

Step 2
~3 min

Mince shallots and garlic.

Step 3
~3 min

Combine mozzarella, olive oil, shallot, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

Step 4
~3 min

Coarsely chop half of the basil leaves and add to mozzarella mixture.

Step 5
~3 min

Set mozzarella mixture aside while preparing tomatoes.

Step 6
~3 min

Cut grape tomatoes in half lengthwise.

Step 7
~3 min

Combine tomatoes and salt in a separate bowl.

Step 8
~3 min

Transfer tomatoes to a colander set in the sink and let drain for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 9
~3 min

Tear remaining basil leaves into 1/2-inch pieces.

Step 10
~3 min

Gently toss tomatoes, romaine, olives, vinegar, mozzarella mixture, and basil together in a large bowl.

Step 11
~3 min

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 12
~3 min

Serve immediately.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

Expert advice for the best results

For best flavor, use high-quality mozzarella and tomatoes.

Adjust the amount of vinegar to your taste.

Chill the salad for 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Cooking Experience

Everything you need to know before you start

Time & Preparation

Cleanup Time

5 minutes

Batch Cooking
Not Ideal
Make Ahead

Tomatoes can be prepared up to an hour in advance.

Freezable
Kid Friendly

Cooking Environment

Messiness Level
Low
Smell Intensity
Moderate
Noise Level
Low
Elder Friendly
Suitable for seniors

Plating & Presentation

Serving Suggestions

Serve as a side dish or light lunch.

Pair with crusty bread for dipping.

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

Grilled Chicken
Bruschetta

Drink Pairings

Cultural Heritage

Discover the story behind this recipe

Origin & Tradition

Region of Origin

Italy

Cultural Significance

A classic Italian salad, often served in the summer.

Style

Occasions & Celebrations

Festive Uses

Summer picnics
Barbecues

Occasion Tags

Summer
Lunch
Party
Picnic

Popularity Score

65/100

More Italian Lunch Recipes

Discover more delicious Italian Lunch recipes to expand your culinary repertoire