Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 10 oz Cherry Tomatoes
- 12 oz Fresh Marinated Mozzarella Balls
- Fresh Basil, chopped, to taste
- Kosher Salt, to taste
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper, to taste
Bread Dipping Oil
- Reserved oil from marinated mozzarella
- Extra chopped Fresh Basil, for garnish
- Kosher Salt, to taste
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper, to taste
- Bread, for dipping (about 1/2 loaf of crusty bread like baguette or ciabatta)
Instructions
- Drain the mozzarella: Carefully drain the marinated mozzarella balls, reserving the flavorful oil for later use in the dipping sauce.
- Prepare the Caprese salad: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, marinated mozzarella balls, 2 tablespoons of the reserved oil, freshly chopped basil, and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss gently to mix and coat all ingredients with the oil and herbs.
- Serve the salad: Transfer the Caprese mixture to a serving dish and provide toothpicks to make it easy for guests to pick up the bite-sized pieces.
- Make the bread dipping oil: Pour the remaining reserved oil into a small bowl. Stir in extra chopped fresh basil, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This seasoned oil will be perfect for dipping fresh bread.
- Serve: Place the small bowl of dipping oil alongside slices of crusty bread for guests to enjoy in combination with the Caprese salad bites.
Notes
- Use fresh marinated mozzarella balls for the best flavor and texture.
- If marinated mozzarella is unavailable, you can marinate fresh mozzarella balls in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before preparing.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to preference; the marinade oil may already contain some seasoning.
- For an extra burst of flavor, add a drizzle of balsamic glaze over the salad before serving.
- This appetizer is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 2 hours before serving.
- Pair with a crisp white wine or light rosé for a complete appetizer experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
