Insalata Caprese
Instructions:
- I like to present my salad in a single row on a long, narrow platter, but, of course, it can be formed in a ring on a round plate if that is more convenient
- 3 large ripe red beefsteak tomatoes, sliced about 1/ 4 inch thick
- 18 to 24 fresh basil leaves
- 1 pound fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced about 1/ 4 inch thick (450 g)
- 1/ 4 cup extra virgin olive oil (60 ml)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Lay out a slice of tomato on a platter.
- Place 1 large or several small basil leaves on top of the tomato.
- Place a slice of mozzarella on the tomato, overlapping so it covers only half the slice.
- Add more basil leaves and continue layering until you have used all the cheese, tomatoes, and basil.
- Each person pours oil over the salad and seasons it with salt and pepper to taste.
- Note: In Rome, a Caprese salad is never dressed with vinegar, only a light drizzle of the best extra virgin olive oil to highlight the tomatoes and cheese