Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 8 ounces mozzarella balls (2 medium balls)
- 3 medium tomatoes
- 1 avocado
- handful of fresh basil leaves
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic reduction
- kosher salt to taste
- freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Slice the tomatoes into medium slices and cut the mozzarella balls into halves or quarters, depending on their size. Peel and pit the avocado, then slice it thinly to match the other ingredients.
- Layer the Salad: Arrange the tomato slices on a serving plate. Alternate placing mozzarella pieces and avocado slices on top of the tomatoes, creating a layered pattern.
- Add Basil Leaves: Scatter fresh basil leaves over the arranged salad to infuse fragrant herbal notes.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle the extra-virgin olive oil evenly over the salad, followed by the balsamic reduction to add a tangy sweetness.
- Season: Sprinkle kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper over the salad to enhance the flavors according to taste.
- Serve: Serve immediately as a fresh appetizer or chilled for 10-15 minutes to let flavors meld before serving.
Notes
- Use ripe tomatoes and avocado for the best flavor and texture.
- To make a balsamic reduction, simmer balsamic vinegar gently until thickened and reduced by half.
- This salad is best served fresh to maintain avocado’s color and texture.
- Can be adjusted with fresh herbs like oregano or thyme for variation.
- Perfect as a gluten-free and vegetarian dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
