Sliced tomatoes and mozzarella is one of those dishes that proves simplicity can be incredibly powerful. With just a few high-quality ingredients, you can create a plate that feels refined, refreshing, and deeply satisfying. I often prepare this when I want something light yet flavorful, especially during warmer months when tomatoes are at their peak. I once tried this dish using buffalo mozzarella instead of regular fresh mozzarella, and the creaminess was exceptional. This recipe works beautifully as a starter, a light lunch, or even a side dish alongside grilled meats. What makes it special is the balance: juicy tomatoes, soft mozzarella, and subtle seasoning come together without competing for attention. It is a timeless combination that relies on freshness and restraint rather than complexity, making it ideal for both everyday meals and elegant gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is quick to assemble, visually appealing, and naturally versatile. It requires no cooking, highlights seasonal produce, and can be adapted easily to suit different tastes or occasions.
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Sliced Tomatoes and Mozzarella: A Fresh and Elegant Classic
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and simple salad made with sliced ripe tomatoes and creamy mozzarella, finished with olive oil and herbs for a light and refreshing dish.
Ingredients
- 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 200 g fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Wash the tomatoes and slice them evenly.
- Slice the fresh mozzarella into similar-sized rounds.
- Arrange tomato and mozzarella slices alternately on a serving plate.
- Sprinkle salt and black pepper evenly over the slices.
- Drizzle extra virgin olive oil on top.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve immediately or chill briefly before serving.
Notes
- Use ripe tomatoes for best flavor.
- Buffalo mozzarella gives the best texture.
- You may add balsamic glaze if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Fresh tomatoes are the foundation of this dish. Ripe tomatoes provide natural sweetness and acidity, which balance the richness of the mozzarella. I prefer vine-ripened or heirloom tomatoes for their flavor and vibrant color.
Fresh mozzarella adds a creamy, mild contrast to the tomatoes. Its soft texture and subtle milky taste create harmony rather than overpowering the dish. When sliced properly, it pairs seamlessly with the tomatoes.
Extra virgin olive oil enhances the natural flavors and adds a silky mouthfeel. A good-quality olive oil makes a noticeable difference, tying all the elements together.
Salt is essential for bringing out the sweetness of the tomatoes and the creaminess of the cheese. A light sprinkle is all that is needed.
Black pepper adds gentle warmth and depth without distracting from the freshness of the main ingredients.
Fresh basil contributes an aromatic, slightly sweet note that complements both tomatoes and mozzarella beautifully. Its fragrance completes the dish.
Directions
Begin by washing and drying the tomatoes thoroughly. Slice them evenly, aiming for uniform thickness to ensure a balanced bite. Place the slices on a serving plate, slightly overlapping if desired.
Next, slice the fresh mozzarella to a similar thickness as the tomatoes. Arrange the mozzarella slices between the tomato slices, alternating for visual appeal and even distribution of flavors.
Drizzle extra virgin olive oil lightly over the tomatoes and mozzarella. Use just enough to coat the surface without overwhelming the ingredients.
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Add torn fresh basil leaves over the top just before serving to preserve their aroma.
Serve immediately at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves four people as an appetizer. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, with no cooking required.
Storage/reheating
This dish is best enjoyed fresh. If necessary, leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one day, but the texture of the tomatoes and mozzarella may soften. Do not reheat.
Variations and Customizations
Classic Italian Style
Add a light drizzle of balsamic glaze for subtle sweetness.
Avocado Addition
Include sliced avocado for extra creaminess and richness.
Mediterranean Twist
Add olives and a sprinkle of oregano for a briny, herbaceous note.
Protein Boost
Serve with prosciutto or grilled chicken on the side.
Heirloom Showcase
Use mixed-color heirloom tomatoes for visual impact.
Pesto Finish
Replace basil leaves with a spoonful of fresh pesto.
Spicy Touch
Add a pinch of chili flakes for gentle heat.
Citrus Accent
A few drops of lemon zest brighten the flavors.
Rustic Presentation
Serve on a wooden board for a casual look.
Mini Skewers
Assemble tomato and mozzarella on skewers for parties.
FAQs
What type of tomatoes work best?
Ripe vine tomatoes or heirloom varieties provide the best flavor.
Can I use low-moisture mozzarella?
Fresh mozzarella is recommended for the proper texture and taste.
Should this dish be served cold?
Room temperature is ideal for maximum flavor.
Can I prepare this in advance?
It is best assembled just before serving.
Is balsamic vinegar traditional?
It is optional and varies by personal preference.
Can I add garlic?
A light rub of garlic on the plate can add subtle flavor.
Is this dish vegetarian?
Yes, it is naturally vegetarian.
Can I make it vegan?
Use a plant-based mozzarella alternative.
How thick should the slices be?
About a quarter inch works well.
Is olive oil necessary?
Yes, it enhances flavor and texture significantly.
Conclusion
Sliced tomatoes and mozzarella is a timeless dish that celebrates fresh ingredients and thoughtful simplicity. With minimal effort and careful selection of components, it delivers elegance, balance, and flavor in every bite. This is a recipe you can return to again and again, confident in its reliability and charm.
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