Caprese Salad with Vegan Mozzarella
Caprese salad, a classic Italian dish, is a refreshing and flavorful combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and mozzarella cheese. This vegan version swaps out the dairy mozzarella for a plant-based alternative, creating a dish that is just as delicious and satisfying. The vegan mozzarella, made from a combination of nuts and plant-based milk, provides a creamy and slightly tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet tomatoes and aromatic basil. Drizzled with a simple balsamic vinegar and olive oil dressing, this salad is a perfect summer appetizer or light lunch.
The origins of Caprese salad can be traced back to the island of Capri in Italy, where it is believed to have been created in the early 1900s. The salad's vibrant colors are said to represent the Italian flag, with the red tomatoes symbolizing the country's passion, the green basil representing its lush landscapes, and the white mozzarella representing its snow-capped mountains. Traditionally, Caprese salad is made with fresh buffalo mozzarella cheese, which has a soft, creamy texture and a slightly tangy flavor. However, in this vegan version, we use a plant-based mozzarella made from a combination of cashews, almonds, and nutritional yeast. This vegan mozzarella provides a similar creamy texture to traditional mozzarella, but with a slightly nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients in the salad.
Caprese Salad with Vegan Mozzarella Caprese Salad with Vegan Mozzarella Caprese Salad with Vegan Mozzarella Caprese Salad with Vegan Mozzarella
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 0 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 pound ripe tomatoes, sliced
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 1 ball vegan mozzarella cheese, sliced
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. Arrange the tomatoes, basil, and vegan mozzarella on a platter.
  2. Drizzle with the balsamic vinegar and olive oil.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Serve immediately.
Why It Works
  • The combination of sweet tomatoes, fresh basil, and vegan mozzarella creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.
  • The simple balsamic vinegar and olive oil dressing enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients without overpowering them.
  • The vegan mozzarella provides a creamy and slightly tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet tomatoes and aromatic basil.
  • Arranging the salad on a platter allows for even distribution of the ingredients and a visually appealing presentation.
  • Serving the salad immediately ensures that the tomatoes remain fresh and juicy, and the basil retains its vibrant green color.