Mozzarella Basil Salad Recipe
Mozzarella Basil Salad is a fresh, colourful and easy Italian-inspired salad made with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella pearls, fragrant fresh basil and a tangy balsamic dressing. Ready in just 10 minutes, it makes a delicious appetiser, light lunch or refreshing side dish for any occasion.
Equipment
- 1 Sharp Chef’s Knife
- 1 Large Chopping Board:
- 1 Large Salad Bowl –
- 1 Small mixing spoon
- 1 Serving Spoon:
Ingredients
- 750 g cherry tomatoes
- 375 g fresh mozzarella pearls
- 6 tablespoons fresh basil leaves
- 2 garlic cloves
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1½ tablespoons Italian seasoning
- ¾ teaspoon fine salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
🍅 Step 1: Prepare The Tomatoes
- Wash the cherry tomatoes thoroughly under cool running water.
- Dry them carefully with a clean kitchen towel.
- Place the tomatoes on your chopping board and cut each one in half.
- If the tomatoes are particularly large, quarter them instead.
- Transfer the prepared tomatoes to a large salad bowl.
🌿 Step 2: Prepare The Fresh Basil
- Wash the basil leaves gently and pat them completely dry.
- Stack several leaves neatly on top of one another.
- Roll the leaves into a loose cylinder.
- Use your sharp knife to slice across the roll into fine ribbons.
- Add the basil to the bowl.
🧄 Step 3: Prepare The Garlic
- Peel the garlic cloves.
- Finely mince them with your chef's knife.
- Place the minced garlic in a small bowl.
- Add the salt and Italian seasoning.
- Stir briefly to distribute the seasoning evenly.
🧀 Step 4: Add The Mozzarella
- Drain the mozzarella pearls thoroughly.
- Add them to the tomatoes.
- Gently fold the mozzarella through the tomatoes rather than stirring aggressively.
- Take care not to squash the tomatoes or tear the mozzarella.
🍇 Step 5: Make The Dressing
- Pour the balsamic vinegar into a small bowl.
- Add the seasoned garlic mixture.
- Stir thoroughly to combine.
- Taste carefully and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
🥗 Step 6: Combine Everything
- Pour the balsamic dressing over the tomatoes and mozzarella.
- Add the chopped basil.
- Using two large spoons, gently fold everything together.
- Continue folding until the dressing lightly coats the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
- Avoid vigorous mixing because it can bruise the basil and break the mozzarella.
✨ Step 7: Taste And Serve
- Taste the Mozzarella Basil Salad before serving.
- Add a little more black pepper or salt if needed.
- Allow it to stand for approximately 5 minutes so the flavours can mingle.
- Transfer it to a beautiful serving bowl.
- Garnish with a few whole basil leaves.
- Serve immediately for the freshest texture.
Notes
- 🍅 Choose Ripe Tomatoes: Use fresh, firm cherry tomatoes for the best sweetness, colour, and juicy texture.
- 🧀 Drain the Mozzarella: Drain the mozzarella pearls well before adding them to prevent excess liquid from diluting the dressing.
- 🌿 Use Fresh Basil: Fresh basil gives the salad its distinctive aroma and vibrant flavour, so avoid dried basil where possible.
- 🍇 Dress Before Serving: Add the balsamic dressing shortly before serving to keep the tomatoes fresh and prevent the salad from becoming watery.
- 🥗 Fold Gently: Toss the ingredients carefully to avoid crushing the tomatoes or breaking the delicate mozzarella pearls.
- ❄️ Store Properly: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container and enjoy within 3–4 days for the best quality.
- 🧂 Season To Taste: Adjust the salt and black pepper gradually after combining the ingredients to achieve the perfect balance.