Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect results

Ingredients

0/7 checked
4
servings
0.5 pound

mozzarella cheese

fresh or buffalo

0.5 cup

basil

fresh, chopped

4 unit

tomatoes

fresh ripe beefsteak or heirloom

0.25 cup

red wine vinegar

or balsamic

0.5 tsp

salt

0.5 cups

olive oil

extra-virgin good quality

0.25 tsp

black pepper

Step 1
~3 min

Slice the mozzarella cheese to approximately the same thickness as the tomatoes.

Step 2
~3 min

Slice the tomatoes.

Step 3
~3 min

On a large platter, arrange alternating slices of mozzarella cheese and tomatoes.

Step 4
~3 min

Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil over the arranged cheese and tomatoes.

Step 5
~3 min

Prepare the dressing by combining red wine vinegar, salt, black pepper, and extra-virgin olive oil in a small bowl or measuring cup.

Step 6
~3 min

Drizzle the dressing evenly over the tomatoes and cheese.

Step 7
~3 min

Allow the salad to marinate at room temperature for up to 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

Expert advice for the best results

Use the highest quality ingredients for the best flavor.

Marinate the salad for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Serve with crusty bread for soaking up the dressing.

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.

Cooking Experience

Everything you need to know before you start

Time & Preparation

Cleanup Time

5 mins

Batch Cooking
Not Ideal
Make Ahead

Can be assembled ahead of time, but add dressing just before serving.

Freezable
Kid Friendly

Cooking Environment

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

Plating & Presentation

Serving Suggestions

Serve as an appetizer or side dish.

Pairs well with grilled meats or fish.

Enjoy with a glass of white wine.

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

Grilled chicken or fish
Crusty bread
Prosciutto

Drink Pairings

Cultural Heritage

Discover the story behind this recipe

Origin & Tradition

Region of Origin

Italy

Cultural Significance

A staple of Italian cuisine, often enjoyed during the summer months.

Style

Occasions & Celebrations

Festive Uses

Summer parties
Picnics
Barbecues

Occasion Tags

Summer
Picnic
Party

Popularity Score

75/100

More Italian Appetizer Recipes

Discover more delicious Italian Appetizer recipes to expand your culinary repertoire

Italian
Easy
A-

Roasted Tomato and Basil Bruschetta

4.1
(1276 reviews)

A simple and delicious Italian appetizer featuring roasted cherry tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil on toasted baguette slices.

30 min
250 cal
Vegetarian
75%
70
Italian
Medium
A

Shrimp Walnut Bruschetta with Cheesy Dip

4.5
(491 reviews)

An Italian-inspired appetizer featuring toasted baguette slices topped with a creamy, cheesy dip, succulent shrimp, crunchy walnuts, and fresh herbs.

60 min
350 cal
Pescatarian
60%
70
Italian
Easy
A-

Cheese Garlic Bread

4.3
(1732 reviews)

Delicious and easy-to-make cheese garlic bread, perfect as an appetizer or side dish.

25 min
250 cal
Vegetarian
85%
75
Italian
Easy
B+

Insalata Caprese

4.3
(931 reviews)

A classic Italian salad featuring fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, drizzled with olive oil and red wine vinaigrette.

20 min
400 cal
Vegetarian
Gluten-Free
75%
70
Italian
Easy
B+

Bruschetta

4.1
(1912 reviews)

A classic Italian appetizer featuring fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic on toasted bread.

15 min
150 cal
Vegetarian
85%
75
Italian
Medium
B+

Italian Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

4.4
(465 reviews)

Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with Italian sausage, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.

30 min
250 cal
Gluten-Free (check sausage)
Keto-Friendly (modified)
75%
70
Italian
Easy
A-

Toasted Bread with Tomatoes

4.3
(583 reviews)

Classic bruschetta recipe with toasted bread, fresh tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.

20 min
250 cal
Vegetarian
80%
75
Italian
Easy
B+

Fresh Melon And Fresh Figs And Prosciutto

4.0
(544 reviews)

A refreshing appetizer featuring sweet melon and figs wrapped in savory prosciutto, perfect for summer gatherings.

15 min
75 cal
Gluten-Free
60%
75