Simple Caprese Salad

The end of summer is always a sad time for me.  The long, hot days are wonderful in California, and the weather is perfect for my mother's garden (which you might remember from this post).  She always gives me a large tomato bumper crop from her many tomato plants, as well as a ton of basil.

Earlier this summer, I tried a roasted tomato soup (which I have yet to blog about!) which was pretty good.  I also had a couple of recipes which used some of the crop, including the Basil, Rosemary and Tomato Focaccia and the "Pantry Fresh" Pesto Pasta Salad.

I love coming up with new recipes to use my abundant tomato stock.  However, none of these dishes really let the fresh tomatoes sing on their own.  That is why my absolute favorite summertime tomato dish is a simple Caprese Salad!

A few months ago, I shared with you my favorite salad.  I should probably clarify that the recipe I posted about is definitely my favorite lettuce-based salad.  The caprese salad is absolutely my favorite salad, bar none!

Caprese Salad
Ingredients

• Tomatoes, chopped (roma, cherry, etc.)
• Mozzarella, chopped into cubes
• Basil, chopped

• Olive oil
• Balsamic vinegar
• Salt, freshly ground
• Pepper

Directions

1. Toss together the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.

Note: I do not put amounts because the amounts will depend on the ratio of tomatoes to mozzarella that you prefer!

2. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, to taste.

Note: I also do not include amounts for the oil and vinegar because it depends on your preferred flavor profile.  I tend to add more balsamic vinegar than most people because I like the bite!

3. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.

4. Enjoy!

To serve the salad, it is wonderful on its own!  However, it is always a good idea to serve it alongside some toasted crostini, focaccia, or flatbreads.  It lends itself extremely well to becoming an impromptu bruschetta or "pizza."

Isn't this such a beautiful salad?  I love the colors, and just seeing the pictures makes me want to go to Italy and eat one of these every day!  Since we are nearly at the end of the summer, the tomato plant is getting to the end of its season.  :(

Until then, I'll be eating one of these salads and coaxing every tomato I can out of the plant.

Buon appetito!