Insalata Caprese (Tomato, Basil & Mozzarella) - THE Summer Salad
The Spirit of Italian Summer — A Salad That Transports You To Sunnier Climes
If one dish could capture the essence of the Italian coast in a single bite, it would be the Insalata Caprese. Named after the sun-drenched island of Capri, this salad is more than just a starter; it is a celebration of the Italian flag—green, white, and red—and a masterclass in the beauty of simplicity — something Carluccio's absolutely loves.
A History of the Island
While many believe the Caprese has ancient roots, its origins are relatively modern. Legend has it that the dish was created in the 1920s at the Grand Hotel Quisisana on Capri to satisfy the appetite of a famous poet who wanted something light and refreshing. It later gained international fame in the 1950s when King Farouk of Egypt requested a "light afternoon snack," and was served this iconic combination.
The philosophy behind it is pure: when you have only three primary ingredients, they must be of the highest possible quality.
How to Craft the Ultimate Caprese
To make a truly authentic version, skip the supermarket basics and focus on provenance. Here is how to assemble a masterpiece:
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The Tomatoes: Seek out vine-ripened tomatoes. They should be heavy for their size and fragrant. Slice them thickly to provide a sturdy base.
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The Mozzarella: Traditionally, Mozzarella di Bufala Campana is used for its creamy, slightly tangy profile. Ensure it is at room temperature before serving to allow the fats to soften and the flavour to bloom.
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The Basil: Never chop your basil with a knife, as the metal can bruise the leaves and turn them bitter. Instead, tear the fresh leaves by hand just before serving.
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The Finish: This is where the magic happens. Drizzle generously with Carluccio’s Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Our oil provides that essential peppery finish that cuts through the creaminess of the cheese. Finally, use a pinch of high-quality sea salt and a crack of black pepper.
A Note on Balsamic: While popular outside of Italy, a traditional Caprese rarely uses balsamic vinegar. However, if you prefer a touch of acidity, a tiny drizzle of a thick, aged Balsamic Vinegar of Modena from our deli can add a wonderful depth of sweetness.
Two Simple Twists for the Summer
If you are looking to reinvent this classic for your next garden gathering, try these subtle variations:
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The Roasted Twist: If your tomatoes aren't quite at peak sweetness, slow-roast them in the oven with a little garlic and salt before pairing them with the cold mozzarella. The contrast of warm, jammy tomatoes and cool cheese is spectacular.
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The Fruit Fusion: For a contemporary Mediterranean feel, add thin slices of fresh peach or nectarine between the layers. The stone fruit pairs beautifully with the creamy mozzarella and the peppery notes of the basil.
Shop the Essentials
Ready to create your own taste of Capri? Visit the Carluccio’s Online Deli to stock up on the building blocks of a great salad:
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Premium Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The golden thread that ties the dish together.
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Aged Balsamic Vinegar: Not Traditional, but for those who love a sweet, tangy note.
