Imagine a burst of Mediterranean sunshine on your plate - crisp, fresh, and absolutely irresistible! This Mediterranean Tomato Mozzarella and Celery Salad is not just a dish, it's a culinary journey that combines vibrant flavors, stunning colors, and nutritious ingredients in one simple yet spectacular recipe. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch, a stunning side dish, or a light dinner option, this salad promises to elevate your meal from ordinary to extraordinary in just 15 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mozzarella balls
- 1 cup celery, sliced
- 1/4 cup basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Rinse the cherry tomatoes under cold water, then slice them in half. Place the halved tomatoes in a large mixing bowl.
- Next, take the mozzarella balls and drain any liquid if necessary. If the balls are large, you can cut them in half or quarters to match the size of the cherry tomatoes. Add the mozzarella to the bowl with the tomatoes.
- Wash the celery stalks thoroughly to remove any dirt. Slice the celery into thin pieces, about 1/4 inch thick, and add them to the mixing bowl with the tomatoes and mozzarella.
- Chop the fresh basil leaves finely. You can stack the leaves, roll them tightly, and slice them to create thin strips (a technique known as chiffonade). Add the chopped basil to the bowl.
- In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Whisk together or shake well to emulsify the dressing. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the mixing bowl. Gently toss everything together using a spatula or large spoon, ensuring that the tomatoes, mozzarella, celery, and basil are well coated with the dressing.
- Once combined, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired.
- Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is optional but enhances the overall taste.
- Serve the Mediterranean Tomato Mozzarella and Celery Salad immediately, or refrigerate it for up to an hour before serving for a chilled option. Enjoy your fresh and vibrant salad!
Tips
- Choose the freshest ingredients possible - ripe cherry tomatoes, high-quality mozzarella, and crisp celery make all the difference.
- For the best flavor, use extra virgin olive oil and a good quality balsamic vinegar.
- Let the salad rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- For extra freshness, chill your ingredients beforehand.
- If you want to add more complexity, consider toasting some pine nuts or adding a sprinkle of dried oregano.
- Use room temperature mozzarella for the most creamy texture.
- Don't overdress the salad - the goal is to complement, not overwhelm, the fresh ingredients.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 9g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
