Christmas Candy Cane Caprese (Printable View)
Arrange fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil in a cheerful candy cane pattern for a stunning holiday appetizer.
# Ingredient List:
→ Main Ingredients
01 - 3 large ripe tomatoes, sliced 1/4 inch thick
02 - 12 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced 1/4 inch thick
03 - 1 large bunch fresh basil leaves
→ Dressing
04 - 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
05 - 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
06 - 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt
07 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
# How to Prepare:
01 - Arrange alternating tomato and mozzarella slices on a large serving platter in a curved candy cane shape, starting with tomato at the curved end and alternating colors throughout.
02 - Tuck whole basil leaves between each tomato and cheese layer, allowing the green to peek through and complement the red and white stripes.
03 - Drizzle extra-virgin olive oil evenly across the entire arrangement using a light sweeping motion to coat all ingredients.
04 - Pour balsamic glaze in a thin, steady stream back and forth over the salad to create decorative lines that enhance the candy cane appearance.
05 - Sprinkle flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper generously over the salad. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 1 hour before serving.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- The candy cane pattern makes people smile before they even take a bite
- Takes fifteen minutes but looks like you spent all day planning it
02 -
- Cold mozzarella slices more cleanly so pop it in the freezer for ten minutes before slicing
- The salad needs to sit at room temperature for at least fifteen minutes before serving
03 -
- Pat your tomato slices dry with paper towels before arranging them
- Buy one extra tomato and mozzarella ball in case some slices don't cooperate