Tossed Caprese Salad: A Symphony of Summer Flavors

I can still remember the first time I tasted a Caprese salad. It was during a summer trip to the Amalfi Coast, the sun warm on my skin as I sat overlooking the turquoise sea. The simplicity of perfectly ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic, was a revelation. It was a dish that captured the essence of Italian summer, and it’s a memory I cherish every time I prepare a Caprese salad. This tossed version makes it even more accessible, perfect for sharing at picnics or barbecues.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Dietary Type: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 bunch large leaf Italian basil
• 1 1/2 cups ripe cherry tomatoes
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese

Dressing

• 1 teaspoon Trader Joe’s 21 Seasoning Salute
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 pinch salt
• 1 pinch coarse grinded pepper
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 1/2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

Equipment Needed

• Salad bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the cherry tomatoes. Thoroughly wash them under cold water, then place them on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut each cherry tomato in half. Transfer the halved tomatoes to a large salad bowl.

2. Next, focus on the fresh mozzarella cheese. Remove the cheese from its packaging and gently pat it dry with a paper towel. This helps to prevent the salad from becoming too watery. On the cutting board, cut the fresh mozzarella into small, bite-sized pieces, approximately the same size as the halved tomatoes. Add the cubed mozzarella to the salad bowl with the tomatoes.

3. Now, prepare the Italian basil. Wash the basil leaves gently and pat them dry. Stack a few leaves at a time and tear them into smaller, manageable pieces. Tearing the basil, rather than cutting it, helps to release its fragrant oils and prevents bruising. Add the torn basil leaves to the salad bowl.

4. In a separate, small mixing bowl, prepare the dressing. Add the Trader Joe’s 21 Seasoning Salute, sugar, salt, and coarse grinded pepper. The 21 Seasoning Salute adds a complex savory note that elevates the dressing.

5. Pour in the extra virgin olive oil into the mixing bowl with the spices. Using a whisk, vigorously mix all the ingredients together until they are well combined. The mixture should emulsify slightly.

6. Slowly drizzle the balsamic vinegar into the dressing mixture while continuously whisking. The vinegar adds a tangy sweetness that balances the richness of the olive oil and cheese. Continue whisking until the dressing is smooth and evenly combined.

7. Pour the prepared dressing over the ingredients in the large salad bowl.

8. Gently toss the salad together, ensuring that all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to overmix, as this can bruise the basil and crush the tomatoes.

9. Serve the Tossed Caprese Salad immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For the most flavorful salad, use the freshest, highest-quality ingredients you can find. Ripe, in-season tomatoes and fresh mozzarella make a world of difference.
• If you don’t have Trader Joe’s 21 Seasoning Salute, you can substitute it with a blend of dried herbs such as oregano, basil, rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder. Adjust the amounts to taste.
• To prevent the mozzarella from becoming rubbery, avoid refrigerating it for too long before serving. It’s best served at room temperature.
• If you are preparing the salad ahead of time, dress it just before serving to prevent the tomatoes from becoming soggy and the basil from wilting. You can prepare the dressing and chop the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately.
• A sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before serving can enhance the flavors even further.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Tossed Caprese Salad immediately as a refreshing appetizer, side dish, or light lunch. It pairs well with grilled meats, crusty bread, or a simple balsamic glaze.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad is best consumed within 1-2 days, as the tomatoes may become watery and the basil may wilt over time. It’s not recommended to freeze the salad, as the texture of the tomatoes and mozzarella will be negatively affected.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	243.9 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	N/A	72%
Total Fat	19.5 g	30%
Saturated Fat	8.4 g	42%
Cholesterol	44.8 mg	14%
Sodium	397.2 mg	16%
Total Carbohydrate	4.5 g	1%
Dietary Fiber	0.7 g	2%
Sugars	3.1 g	12%
Protein	13.1 g	26%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Variations & Substitutions

• For a vegan version: Substitute the fresh mozzarella with a plant-based mozzarella alternative, such as cashew-based or tofu-based mozzarella.
• Add a burst of citrus: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a few drops of lemon zest can brighten the flavors of the salad.
• Incorporate other vegetables: Consider adding sliced cucumber, bell peppers, or red onion for added crunch and flavor.
• Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a touch of heat to the dressing.
• Use different types of tomatoes: Heirloom tomatoes or grape tomatoes can be substituted for cherry tomatoes.
• Add some grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier salad that can be served as a main course.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: While it’s best served immediately, you can prep the ingredients (chop tomatoes and mozzarella, tear basil, whisk dressing) in advance and store them separately. Dress the salad right before serving to prevent it from getting soggy.

Q: Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
A: Fresh basil is highly recommended for its superior flavor. If you must use dried basil, use about 1 teaspoon and add it to the dressing.

Q: What if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?
A: You can substitute balsamic vinegar with red wine vinegar, although the flavor will be slightly different.

Q: How can I prevent the mozzarella from being watery?
A: Pat the mozzarella dry with paper towels before cutting it. You can also buy “dry” mozzarella, which has less moisture.

Q: Is this salad gluten-free?
A: Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free balsamic vinegar.

Final Thoughts

This Tossed Caprese Salad is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients that come together in perfect harmony. Its vibrant colors and flavors are a reminder of sunny days and warm gatherings. I hope you’ll try this recipe and share it with friends and family. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations and personalize it to your liking. Buon appetito!