Recipe: Insalata Caprese (Tomato & Buffalo Mozarella salad)

Insalata Caprese is rumored to have originated on the Isle of Capri, but it could just be attributed to Capri because it became popular after King Farouk of Egypt ate it at this location.

Insalata Caprese is an incredibly simple salad, getting its flavours from its fresh ingredients. While hotels and restaurants fancy it up by slicing it thinly and arranging it decoratively, it can be served as a tossed salad, especially when served with cherry tomatoes.

Its very quick to assemble. 10 minutes tops and yet it tastes hearty and comforting at the same time and its healthy to boot!

Ingredients:
1 ball of buffalo mozarella cheese chopped into cubes
20 basil leaves washed and roughly torn
15-20 cherry tomatoes washed and halved
salt to taste
1 sachet Dominoes "pizza seasoning" (optional - I had it handy and the oregano contrasted well with the basil)
drizzle of balsamic vinegar (I like the sweet tangy flavour of balsamic)
drizzle of olive oil (adds a buttery flavour)

Method:
Lightly toss the mozarella cubes and halved cherry tomatoes, then add the basil leaves (you can reserve a few for garnishing)
Then add the rest of the ingredients.
You can serve immediately or let it stand for awhile for the mozarella to absorb the flavors of the tomatoes and other ingredients.
Don't let it stand too long or you will have a puddle of liquid collect at the bottom.

Other:
You can also serve this on top of a bed of salad leaves

Leftovers can be eaten as pizza topping or sandwich filling