Summer Flavors Fresh Mozzarella and Tomato Salad

Dana Angelo White, MS, RD, ATC

Medically reviewed by

Richard Fogoros, MD

Updated on September 20, 2019

(32 ratings)

Total Time: 60 min

Prep Time: 60 min

Cook Time: 0 min

Servings: 8 (1/2 cup each)

Nutrition Highlights (per serving)

128 calories

9g fat

4g carbs

8g protein

Show Nutrition Label

Nutrition Facts
Servings: 8 (1/2 cup each)
Amount per serving
Calories	128
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 9g	12%
Saturated Fat 4g	20%
Cholesterol 15mg	5%
Sodium 187mg	8%
Total Carbohydrate 4g	1%
Dietary Fiber 1g	4%
Total Sugars 2g
Includes 1g Added Sugars	2%
Protein 8g
Vitamin D 0mcg	0%
Calcium 218mg	17%
Iron 0mg	0%
Potassium 128mg	3%
*The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a food serving contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calorie a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Enjoy the best flavors of summer with this classic tomato salad. Dressed with sweet balsamic vinegar and spicy fresh basil, even though there are only a handful of ingredients, there's a ton of flavor and nutrients.

Fresh mozzarella is lower in fat and higher in protein than many other types of cheeses. Tomatoes are filled with the antioxidant lycopene, a powerful red pigment that protects cells and fights inflammation. You get the best in just a single serving!

Ingredients

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon honey
1/2 teaspoon finely chopped garlic
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 pints cherry tomatoes
8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, diced
1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped

Preparation

In a medium bowl combine olive oil, vinegar, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper; whisk well.
Cut all of the cherry tomatoes in half.
Place tomatoes in the bowl, followed by diced fresh mozzarella cheese and then basil.
Toss ingredients gently to coat in the dressing.
Cover and allow to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.

Ingredient Variations and Substitutions

Add other fresh garden veggies to this salad, such as cucumbers, bell peppers, or broccoli to up the color and nutrition.

Basil and tomatoes provide a more traditional salad harmony, but herbs like chives, parsley, and tarragon make for something a little different yet exciting.

Cooking and Serving Tips

You can serve this salad immediately after making it, but allowing it to marinate for a little while does allow the flavors to develop and the natural sweetness of the tomatoes to really come through. Instead of 30 minutes at room temperature, store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Serve as a side dish or over a bed of mixed greens; also try this salad tossed with cooked grains such as quinoa, brown rice, or farro.