Caprese salad with balsamic reduction

A flavorful and colorful Caprese salad is the perfect bite for the hot summer months.

But first, What’s a Caprese Salad?

A Caprese, is a simple salad made with tomato, mozzarella and fresh basil, seasoned with salt and olive oil; some people may add black pepper and balsamic vinegar for extra flavor. The salad is so refreshing that it makes it the perfect side dish to eat during the hot summer months.

My version of this Italian delicacy is very simple but quite tasty. I seasoned the salad with salt and olive oil, plus, I add a bit of black pepper, dried oregano, and then drizzle it with a balsamic vinegar reduction that is to die for!

The balsamic reduction is quite simple– It’s balsamic vinegar that it has been reduced through cooking to a thicker consistency. This method makes the vinegar sweeter, less acidic and full of flavor.

Are your ready for the recipe?

Recipe for Caprese Salad with Balsamic Reduction:

2 large red tomatoes (beefstake or Heirloom), sliced
1 lb fresh mozzarella, Sliced
fresh basil leaves
Salt and black pepper to taste.
1/8 teaspoon of dried oregano
Olive oil, to drizzled

For the Balsamic vinegar reduction.

1 cup of Balsamic Vinegar

Preparation:

Make the reduction by placing the Balsamic Vinegar in a medium sauce pan over medium heat. Bring to a boil.

Lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 10 to 15 minutes until the vinegar has thicken and reduced.Keep an eye on it as you don’t want to burn. Let it cool in a bowl or glass container.

For the salad: Arrange tomatoes, mozzarella cheese and fresh basil leaves on a platter. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper and oregano. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic reduction.