Low Calorie Lunch: Caprese Salad with Fresh Mozzarella Recipe

Tomato, mozzarella, basil, olive oil. The Italian caprese salad is proof that sometimes the simplest things are the best — low calorie and absolutely perfect.

Cook 15 min Difficulty EASY 220 kcal
#vegetarian #mediterranean #diabetic friendly #low carb
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • fresh mozzarella cheese 6 oz
  • ripe tomatoes 2 pieces
  • fresh basil leaves 12 pieces
Seasonings/Sauce
  • extra virgin olive oil 2 tbsp
  • coarse salt 0.25 tsp
  • freshly ground black pepper 0.25 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 8 g 15%
Protein 12 g 22%
Fat 15 g 63%
Serving size 180g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Slice the fresh mozzarella cheese into 1/4-inch thick rounds for even texture and gentle chew.

  2. 2

    Cut the ripe tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick slices, keeping knife pressure light to avoid crushing.

  3. 3

    Arrange tomato and mozzarella slices alternately on a serving plate, overlapping them for visual appeal.

  4. 4

    Tuck whole fresh basil leaves between each layer, distributing them evenly to enhance both aroma and flavor.

  5. 5

    Drizzle the olive oil evenly across the salad, then season with coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper just before serving for optimal moisture, preventing sogginess.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Caprese Salad with Fresh Mozzarella Recipe?
The dish’s identity is defined by creamy fresh mozzarella and ripe tomatoes. The mozzarella’s delicate, milky flavor contrasts beautifully with the juicy acidity of the tomatoes for a true Caprese flavor profile. Basil and olive oil complete the ensemble, but mozzarella is the anchoring component.
Q. How do I keep the salad’s texture fresh and appealing?
For the freshest texture, slice tomatoes and mozzarella just before assembling. Using gentle pressure prevents bruising. Don’t add olive oil or seasonings until the last moment—this maintains each slice’s firmness and avoids excess moisture pooling in the salad.
Q. Does this Caprese Salad require any heat or cooking?
No heat is required for this recipe. Ensuring you use room-temperature mozzarella and tomatoes maximizes flavor, and assembling just before serving preserves the salad’s signature freshness. No actual cooking means fewer chances to over-soften or dry out the ingredients.
Q. What are the nutrition facts of this Low Calorie Lunch: Caprese Salad with Fresh Mozzarella Recipe?
Each serving provides approximately 220 kcal, with 8g carbohydrates (15%), 12g protein (22%), and 15g fat (63%). This balance makes it a satisfying yet light choice for lunch, perfect for those mindful of carb and calorie intake.
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