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Caprese Salad with Pesto Dressing


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  • Author: Recipes Tasteful
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 Serving 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A vibrant twist on the classic Caprese, this salad is topped with a fresh pesto dressing that adds an extra layer of flavor to every bite. Perfect as an appetizer or light meal!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Salad

  • 4 large tomatoes, sliced
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Pesto Dressing

  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tbsp pine nuts (or walnuts for a twist)
  • 1 small garlic clove
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness

Instructions

  • Make the Pesto Dressing:
    • In a small food processor or blender, combine the fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt.
    • Blend while slowly drizzling in the olive oil until smooth and creamy. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. For added brightness, incorporate a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
  • Assemble the Salad:
    • On a serving plate, arrange the sliced tomatoes and mozzarella alternately. Tuck fresh basil leaves between the layers for color and flavor.
    • Season the salad generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  • Drizzle with Pesto Dressing:
    • Spoon the pesto dressing generously over the assembled salad. For an extra touch, garnish with additional basil leaves.
  • Serve:
    • Serve immediately as a refreshing appetizer or light side dish.

Notes

  • The pesto dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
  • Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor.
  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: salad
  • Method: No Cook
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 1/4 of the salad)
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 160mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 19g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 2mg