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Day 7 Lunch: Caprese Salad + Mozzarella, Tomatoes & Fresh Basil Drizzled + Olive Oil & Balsamic Vinegar

Prep Time:

5 minutes

Cook Time:

0 Minutes

Serves:

1

Level:

Beginner

About the Recipe

A classic, refreshing Caprese salad with creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant fresh basil, drizzled with rich olive oil and tangy balsamic vinegar. This simple yet elegant dish is packed with flavor and healthy fats.

Ingredients

Caprese Salad:

  • 4 oz fresh mozzarella (sliced or cubed)

  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or 1 medium tomato, sliced)

  • 6-8 fresh basil leaves, whole or torn

  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (sugar-free or reduced-carb version preferred)

  • Pinch of sea salt

  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Preparation

  1. Slice Mozzarella & Tomatoes: Slice fresh mozzarella and tomatoes into even slices. If using cherry tomatoes, cut them in half.

  2. Assemble the Salad: Arrange alternating layers of mozzarella, tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves on a plate. For a more rustic look, toss everything gently in a bowl.

  3. Drizzle Olive Oil & Balsamic: Drizzle extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad.

  4. Season Lightly: Sprinkle with sea salt and a crack of black pepper to enhance the flavors.

  5. Serve Immediately: Enjoy fresh, or let sit for 5-10 minutes for the flavors to meld.


Tips to Make it Even Easier:

  • Use Pre-Sliced Mozzarella: Save time by using pre-sliced fresh mozzarella or mozzarella medallions.

  • Batch Prep Tomatoes: Halve cherry tomatoes ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for quick assembly.

  • Pre-Make Dressing: Mix olive oil and balsamic vinegar in a small jar and shake well for a quick drizzle anytime.


Quick & Simple Flavor Boost Options (Optional):

  • Garlic-Infused Olive Oil: Use garlic-infused olive oil for an aromatic, savory upgrade.

  • Add Avocado Slices: Add sliced avocado for a creamy, nutrient-dense addition.

  • Pesto Drizzle (Nut-Free): Drizzle a sugar-free, nut-free basil pesto over the salad for an herby boost.

  • Capers & Red Onion: Add capers and thinly sliced red onion for a tangy, briny bite.

  • Crumbled Feta Twist: Replace mozzarella with crumbled feta for a tangier, saltier variation.

  • Lemon Zest & Chili Flakes: Sprinkle fresh lemon zest and a pinch of chili flakes for brightness and heat.


Recipes Created by BloodSugarChef.com

Meal Plan by American Diabetes Society

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