Tomatoes, mozzarella, basil oil create a refreshing Italian salad, ideal as a summery appetizer or side.
# What You'll Need:
→ Salad
01 - 3 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
02 - 9 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
03 - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
04 - Fresh basil leaves, whole
→ Basil Oil
05 - 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
06 - 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
07 - 1 small garlic clove
08 - 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
09 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Finishing
10 - Flaky sea salt
11 - Freshly ground black pepper
12 - Balsamic glaze (optional)
# Directions:
01 - Place basil leaves, olive oil, garlic, and sea salt in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. Adjust seasoning with black pepper as desired, then set aside.
02 - Arrange tomato and mozzarella slices alternately on a large serving platter. Interleave whole basil leaves between slices and add thin red onion rings if desired.
03 - Generously drizzle the blended basil oil across the arranged salad.
04 - Sprinkle flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper over the salad. Optionally, finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
05 - Serve immediately at room temperature for optimal flavor.
