Caprese Salad with Pesto

This Caprese Salad with Pesto is a vibrant and refreshing dish, perfect for a light lunch or as an appetizer. The combination of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and aromatic basil pesto creates a delightful harmony of flavors.

Ingredients

• Fresh mozzarella - 200 grams
• Ripe tomatoes - 2 medium (approx. 250 grams)
• Fresh basil leaves - 30 grams
• Pine nuts - 30 grams
• Extra virgin olive oil - 60 ml
• Garlic - 1 clove
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Balsamic glaze - for drizzling (optional)

Steps

1. Prepare the pesto by placing basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, and a pinch of salt in a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped.
2. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
3. Slice the fresh mozzarella and tomatoes into even rounds.
4. On a serving plate, alternate layers of sliced mozzarella and tomatoes, slightly overlapping them.
5. Drizzle the prepared pesto generously over the layered salad.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. If desired, finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added flavor before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 14 g
• Carbs: 12 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Cholesterol: 40 mg
• Total Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 22 g
• Water: 0.2 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in antioxidants from tomatoes and basil, which help reduce inflammation.
• High in healthy fats from olive oil and pine nuts, promoting heart health.

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