Ingredients:

  • 4 large ripe tomatoes (about 900 grams/2 pounds)
  • 250 grams (9 ounces) fresh mozzarella cheese, preferably Buffalo mozzarella
  • A handful of fresh basil leaves (about 15-20 leaves)
  • Extra-virgin olive oil (about 4 tablespoons/60 ml)
  • Balsamic vinegar (optional, about 1 tablespoon/15 ml)
  • Salt (to taste)
  • Freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)

Instructions:

  1. Wash and dry the tomatoes and basil leaves.
  2. Slice the tomatoes into thick rounds (about 1/2-inch thick).
  3. Slice the mozzarella into rounds of the same thickness.
  4. Arrange one slice of tomato on the serving platter.
  5. Place one slice of mozzarella on top of the tomato.
  6. Tuck a basil leaf next to or on top of the mozzarella.
  7. Repeat the layering, alternating tomato, mozzarella, and basil until all ingredients are used.
  8. Drizzle extra-virgin olive oil evenly over the assembled salad.
  9. If desired, drizzle balsamic vinegar too.
  10. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
  11. Enjoy immediately or let sit for a few minutes to enhance the flavors.