Mediterranean Harbor

Our favorite recipe for a perfect Mediterranean Insalata Caprese is super-simple:

• Ripe Roma tomatoes, sliced;
• Fresh mozzarella, sliced;
• Plenty of fresh basil, whole leaves;
• Fresh, cold-pressed, extra-virgin olive oil (go premium here, you're looking for some fruity, flavorful character);
• Balsamic vinegar reduction (reduce until thickened);
• Fresh-ground Sale e peppe (don't skimp on the pepper)

Ideally you have mozzarella balls you can slice so they’re similar to the size of the tomato slices. Then just layer them in alternating fashion: Tomato slice, mozz slice, tomato slice…Use a bias on the plate so some of the the face of each tomato and mozzarella slice gets the oil and balsamic drizzle. Top with those verdant leaves of basil. Don’t forget that salt and pepper, and please be liberal with the pepper. And, done!