Often times salads can have a negative connotation when the diner immediately pictures a bowl of lettuce with toppings. Salad, or in this case caprese, does not require or even have to involve the begrudged lettuce! While the orange slices really make this side perfect for the summertime, I’m honestly just here for the fresh mozzarella.
Orange, tomato, and onion are an unusual combination. A tilt of the head and wrinkling of the nose might be your first reaction. However, if you approach this side with a positive and thoughtful attitude, you could turn these simple Caprese ingredients into a summertime masterpiece to make you drool.
Ingredients:
- 1 navel orange
- 1/2 red onion
- 5 slices of fresh mozzarella (plus whatever you eat while assembling)
- Sprigs of fresh basil or spinach leaves
- 1 large red tomato
- Italian seasoning, parsley
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
Instructions:
- Slice the onion crosswise (perpendicular to the 2 ends) to get the rings. Cut the end off the orange and gently squeeze the juice over the onion and let soak for 10-30 minutes.
- Slice the rest of the orange as thick as you prefer then trim the peal off (or vice versa if you prefer). Slice the tomato (horizontally), discarding the ends. Slice the mozzarella about 1/4 inch thick.
- Assemble the platter by laying the ingredients in a sorted pattern, a straight line on a platter would be easiest.
- Drizzle the oil, vinegar and spices on top. Serve chilled. Can make ahead by storing in the fridge on a grate (cooling rack with a tray under to catch the juice) and transferring to a serving platter before displaying.
Food of the Month 