Caprese Salad with Roasted Peppers: A Burst of Mediterranean Flavors

When it comes to Mediterranean cuisine, few dishes are as iconic and beloved as the Caprese salad. Originating from the picturesque island of Capri in Italy, this salad is a harmonious blend of fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella cheese, fragrant basil leaves, and extra-virgin olive oil.

But why stop there? Elevate this classic recipe to new heights by adding the smoky sweetness of roasted peppers. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to create a delightful Caprese Salad with Roasted Peppers that’s not only visually stunning but also a symphony of flavors.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 4 ripe tomatoes, preferably a mix of varieties
• 1 cup of fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 2 red bell peppers, roasted, peeled, and sliced
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
• Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
• Balsamic vinegar reduction (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For Roasted Peppers:

• 2 red bell peppers
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Peppers

1. Preheat your oven’s broiler to high or use a gas stove burner.
2. Place the red bell peppers directly over the flame or on a baking sheet under the broiler.
3. Roast the peppers, turning occasionally, until their skins blister and char all over. This should take about 10-15 minutes.
4. Once the peppers are well-charred, carefully transfer them to a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel. This will allow the steam to loosen the skins.
5. After 10-15 minutes, remove the peppers from the bowl and peel off the charred skin. Slice them into thin strips.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

6. Slice the ripe tomatoes and arrange them on a serving platter.
7. Top each tomato slice with a slice of fresh mozzarella cheese.
8. Add the roasted pepper strips on top of the mozzarella.
9. Sprinkle freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of salt over the salad.

Step 3: Garnish and Drizzle

10. Scatter fresh basil leaves over the salad for a burst of flavor and aroma.
11. Drizzle extra-virgin olive oil generously over the entire salad, allowing it to mingle with the ingredients.
12. For an extra touch of sweetness and depth, you can add a few drops of balsamic vinegar reduction.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

13. Your Caprese Salad with Roasted Peppers is now ready to be served. Enjoy it as a refreshing appetizer or a light summer lunch, accompanied by a crusty baguette or some Italian bread.

Tips and Variations

• Use a mix of colorful tomatoes for a visually appealing salad. Heirloom tomatoes are a great choice.
• If you prefer a sharper flavor, you can use buffalo mozzarella instead of regular mozzarella cheese.
• Experiment with different types of basil, such as Thai basil or lemon basil, for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Conclusion

The Caprese Salad with Roasted Peppers takes the classic Mediterranean flavors of a Caprese salad and adds a smoky, sweet dimension with the inclusion of roasted red bell peppers.

This dish not only delights the palate but also pleases the eye with its vibrant colors. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply craving a taste of Italy, this salad is a perfect choice.

So, gather your ingredients, embrace the Mediterranean spirit, and savor the harmonious blend of flavors that this Caprese Salad with Roasted Peppers brings to your table. Buon appetito!