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Caprese Salad with Heirloom Tomatoes and Buffalo Mozzarella inspired by Biba
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Inspired by Biba

Caprese Salad with Heirloom Tomatoes and Buffalo Mozzarella

Appetizer Vegetarian Gluten-Free
This quintessential Italian antipasto showcases the perfect harmony of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and aromatic basil. The colorful arrangement of ingredients celebrates the Italian flag with its red, white, and green components. Dressed simply with high-quality olive oil and balsamic glaze, this refreshing dish exemplifies the Italian cooking philosophy of allowing exceptional ingredients to shine with minimal intervention.
Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 0 mins
Total Time 15 mins
Servings 6

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs Heirloom tomatoes (Various colors, different sizes)
  • 12 oz Fresh buffalo mozzarella (Or cow's milk mozzarella if buffalo unavailable)
  • 1 cup Fresh basil leaves (Larger leaves for layering, smaller for garnish)
  • 1/4 cup Extra virgin olive oil (Highest quality available)
  • 3 tbsp Balsamic glaze (Store-bought or reduced balsamic vinegar)
  • 1 tsp Flaky sea salt (Such as Maldon)
  • 1/2 tsp Freshly ground black pepper

Tools You'll Need

  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Serving platter
  • Small bowl for olive oil
  • Squeeze bottle for balsamic glaze (optional)

Chef's Tip

For the most flavorful caprese salad, allow your tomatoes and mozzarella to come to room temperature before assembling. Cold temperatures mute flavors, so by letting the ingredients warm slightly, you'll experience their full depth and complexity.

Instructions

  1. Bring mozzarella to room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before serving.
  2. Wash and dry tomatoes and basil leaves.
  3. Core tomatoes and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds, keeping the different colored tomatoes separated if you're using heirlooms.
  4. Slice the mozzarella into rounds of similar thickness to the tomatoes.
  5. On a serving platter, arrange tomato and mozzarella slices, alternating them and slightly overlapping. If using different colored tomatoes, create a pattern that showcases the variety.
  6. Tuck whole basil leaves between some of the tomato and mozzarella slices.
  7. Drizzle the arranged salad with extra virgin olive oil.
  8. Lightly drizzle with balsamic glaze in a decorative pattern.
  9. Season with flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  10. Garnish with small basil leaves or tear larger ones over the top just before serving.

Plating

Arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices in an overlapping circular pattern on a round platter, or in neat rows on a rectangular plate. Allow the arrangement to spread out rather than stacking, so each ingredient is visible. Finish with a final drizzle of olive oil that pools slightly at the edges, and a light scattered application of the balsamic glaze for visual contrast.

Storage & Reheating

Caprese salad is best enjoyed immediately after preparation. If necessary, the components can be prepared separately and refrigerated for up to 24 hours, but assembly should happen just before serving. The dish does not hold well once dressed and will become soggy if made too far in advance.

About This Recipe

Biba's Caprese Salad was renowned for its commitment to simplicity and quality, using only the finest tomatoes and imported buffalo mozzarella. This adaptation honors that approach, focusing on proper preparation and thoughtful arrangement rather than unnecessary embellishments. The bright flavors and contrasting textures create a refreshing start to a meal, just as it did at the celebrated Boston restaurant.

How did it turn out?

We'd love to hear about your experience making this recipe!