Vibrant Roasted Tomato Caprese Salad with sweet, caramelized Roma tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
Ingredients
2 pounds ripe Roma tomatoes, halved lengthwise
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 pound fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
1 cup fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
Extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the oven rack in the middle position.
Prepare the Tomatoes: Wash the Roma tomatoes and halve them lengthwise.
Mince the Garlic: Mince the garlic cloves finely.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the halved tomatoes, minced garlic, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Toss to Coat: Gently toss all the ingredients together until the tomatoes are evenly coated.
Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the tomatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cut sides facing up.
Roast the Tomatoes: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 45-60 minutes, or until the tomatoes are softened and slightly caramelized.
Cool Slightly: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before assembling the salad.
Prepare the Mozzarella: Slice the fresh mozzarella cheese into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
Arrange the Salad: On a serving platter or individual plates, arrange the roasted tomatoes, mozzarella slices, and fresh basil leaves in an alternating pattern.
Drizzle with Olive Oil: Drizzle the salad with a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil.
Add Balsamic Glaze (Optional): If using, drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad.
Season to Taste: Season the salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Serve Immediately: Serve the Roasted Tomato Caprese Salad immediately.
Notes
For a touch of sweetness, drizzle with honey or maple syrup.
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili oil.
Add baby spinach or arugula for extra greens.
Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley.
Grill the mozzarella for a smoky flavor.
Add grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a meal.
Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
Use different types of tomatoes, adjusting roasting time accordingly.
Add a dollop of pesto on each slice of mozzarella.
Marinate the mozzarella in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for extra flavor.
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