Caprese Bowl Recipe

Ingredients

Making a Caprese Bowl is simple, and the ingredients are readily available at most grocery stores. Here’s a list of what you’ll need to bring your bowl to life:

• Fresh Mozzarella: Use whole milk mozzarella or buffalo mozzarella for a creamy, indulgent flavor. The freshness is key here, as it will make the dish pop with flavor.
• Tomatoes: Opt for ripe, juicy tomatoes. Heirloom tomatoes, grape tomatoes, or cherry tomatoes work wonderfully. The fresher, the better!
• Basil: Fresh basil leaves add an aromatic, slightly peppery flavor that complements the creaminess of the mozzarella and the sweetness of the tomatoes.
• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is the best choice for its rich flavor. Drizzle it over your ingredients for a silky finish.
• Balsamic Vinegar: A drizzle of balsamic vinegar gives the dish a perfect balance of acidity and sweetness. If you prefer, you can also use balsamic glaze for a thicker, sweeter touch.
• Salt and Pepper: These simple seasonings bring out the natural flavors of your ingredients.

Optional Add-Ons:

• Grains: You can add quinoa, farro, or rice for added texture and nutrition.
• Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can be added to make the dish more filling.
• Avocado: Add slices of creamy avocado for a rich, buttery element.
• Nuts: Toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts can offer a crunchy contrast to the smooth ingredients.

These ingredients come together quickly and effortlessly, resulting in a dish that’s both light and satisfying.

How to Make the Perfect Caprese Bowl

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s dive into the steps for creating your very own Caprese Bowl. Don’t worry—this is a straightforward recipe that comes together in minutes.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

The first step is prepping all of your ingredients. Begin by washing your tomatoes and basil leaves thoroughly. Slice the tomatoes into bite-sized chunks. If you’re using cherry or grape tomatoes, simply halve them for ease.

For the mozzarella, tear it into small chunks or slices, depending on your preference. You want the cheese to be in bite-sized pieces that’ll mix well with the other ingredients.

Next, chop up your fresh basil leaves. Don’t worry about being too precise—just tear them roughly to preserve their aromatic flavor.

If you’re adding grains or protein, cook them first. For quinoa, follow the instructions on the package, and for chicken or shrimp, grill or pan-sear them to your liking.

Step 2: Assemble the Bowl

Once everything is prepped, it’s time to assemble your Caprese Bowl. Start by creating a base with your grains (quinoa, rice, or farro) or leafy greens (like spinach or arugula). Layer them at the bottom of your bowl.

Next, add your sliced tomatoes and mozzarella. Arrange them in a colorful, vibrant way to make the bowl visually appealing. After all, you eat with your eyes first!

Add your fresh basil on top. For a more fragrant touch, you can gently rub the basil leaves between your fingers to release their oils before adding them to the bowl.

Step 3: Dress the Bowl

Now it’s time to drizzle on your olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Go light on the olive oil—just a few teaspoons should do the trick—and drizzle the balsamic vinegar or glaze on top. You want a balanced sweetness to complement the acidity of the tomatoes and the richness of the mozzarella.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. A little sea salt can really bring out the flavor of the fresh ingredients. Give the bowl a gentle toss to combine everything.