Ingredients
3–4 ripe tomatoes (such as heirloom, vine-ripened, or beefsteak varieties, sourced from a garden or farm stand for best results)
16 oz fresh mozzarella (sold as a log or pre-sliced from the deli section)
Fresh basil leaves (used whole or cut into chiffonade)
Good quality extra virgin olive oil (to drizzle generously)
Flaky sea salt (to sprinkle for flavor and texture)
Freshly ground black pepper (to sprinkle)
Optional: balsamic glaze (made from reduced balsamic vinegar, for added sweet and tangy flavor)
Instructions
1-Wash the tomatoes and basil leaves, then pat them dry to ensure everything is clean and ready.
2-Slice the tomatoes into rounds, aiming for a thickness that matches the mozzarella slices if the mozzarella is not pre-sliced.
3-On a large serving plate, alternate layers of tomato slices, mozzarella slices, and basil leaves for an eye-catching presentation.
4-Drizzle the assembled layers generously with extra virgin olive oil to tie the flavors together.
5-Sprinkle flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper over the top for added taste and texture.
6-If desired, drizzle with balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy boost.
7-Serve immediately to keep the flavors at their peak and the textures fresh.
Last Step:
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🍅 Select ripe tomatoes with deep, even color that yield slightly to gentle pressure.
🔪 Slice tomatoes and mozzarella evenly for balanced, attractive layering.
💦 To reduce moisture, sprinkle tomato slices with salt, let sit, then pat dry before assembling.
💧 Drain and pat dry mozzarella if too moist to prevent watery appetizer.
❄️ Enjoy fresh but store leftovers in airtight container in refrigerator for up to one day.
⏰ Do not leave assembled dish at room temperature for more than 2 hours (1 hour if above 90°F).
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-cook assembly
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 238 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 477 mg
- Fat: 17 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 17 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg