Caprese salad is celebrated for its simple yet vibrant combination of fresh ingredients. At one of your favorite Amherst restaurants, such as Pastamore, this Italian classic truly shines when prepared with care and high-quality ingredients. When each element is thoughtfully selected, Caprese becomes more than a salad—it’s a fresh, flavorful experience. Check out some of our tips on how to recreate this classic at home.
Fresh Mozzarella Matters
The star of any Caprese salad is fresh mozzarella. Look for mozzarella labeled “fresh” or “bufala,” which means it’s made from water buffalo milk. Fresh mozzarella is soft, creamy, and slightly tangy, providing the perfect texture and taste to complement the other ingredients.
Ripe, Juicy Tomatoes
Tomatoes bring bright acidity and sweetness to the salad. Choose ripe, in-season tomatoes whenever possible. Heirloom or vine-ripened varieties work wonderfully. Their juicy, full flavor balances the creaminess of the cheese and the peppery notes of the basil.
Fragrant Basil Leaves
No dried herbs here. Fresh basil is non-negotiable. Its slightly peppery, fragrant flavor adds a pop of brightness that pulls everything together. A few whole leaves go a long way in making the salad feel garden-fresh.
Olive Oil: The Unsung Hero
This is where things become elevated. A drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil brings out the richness of the mozzarella and the sweetness of the tomatoes. It should be smooth, slightly fruity, and unfiltered if possible. Think of it as the final polish on your Caprese masterpiece.
Season Like You Mean It
Don’t forget to season! A sprinkle of flaky sea salt and a twist of fresh black pepper is all you need to round it out. Want to go a little extra? A light splash of balsamic glaze adds just the right tangy-sweet touch.
Pastamore | Amherst Restaurants
When made with care, a Caprese salad is the perfect balance of creamy, bright, and aromatic flavors. For a fresh and flavorful bite made with high-quality ingredients, stop by one of your favorite Amherst restaurants, like Pastamore, and enjoy a taste of Italy right here in town!
