Avocado, Mozzarella, and Tomato

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

Start by prepping the vegetables and cheese. Slice the avocados into wedges, being careful not to mash them. Cut the tomatoes in half or quarters depending on their size, and tear or cut the mozzarella into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using whole mozzarella balls, simply pull them apart into smaller chunks for an authentic, rustic feel.

2. Toss the Salad:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the avocado slices, halved tomatoes, and mozzarella. Gently toss them together to mix, being careful not to mash the avocado. If you’re using larger tomatoes, make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces that will be easy to enjoy in one bite.

3. Prepare the Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar (or red wine vinegar), honey (if using), and lemon juice (if desired). Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. The honey adds a touch of sweetness that balances the acidity of the vinegar, while the lemon juice adds a burst of freshness.

4. Dress the Salad:

Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together again to ensure the ingredients are coated in the vinaigrette. Be careful not to overmix to avoid mashing the avocado.

5. Garnish and Serve:

Top the salad with a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves. You can either chop the basil for an even distribution or leave the leaves whole for a more rustic, decorative touch. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Tips for Success:

• Choose Ripe Avocados: For the best texture and flavor, make sure your avocados are perfectly ripe. They should yield slightly to gentle pressure but not feel mushy.
• Mozzarella Options: Fresh mozzarella balls (also known as bocconcini or ciliegine) work best, but you can also use larger mozzarella and cut it into smaller chunks if necessary.
• Customize the Salad: This simple salad can be easily customized to suit your taste. You can add thinly sliced red onions, black olives, or even a handful of mixed greens for extra flavor and color.
• Make-Ahead: If you’re preparing this salad ahead of time, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This will prevent the avocados from becoming mushy and ensure the ingredients stay fresh.
• Herbs: While fresh basil is traditional, you can also experiment with other fresh herbs like mint or parsley for a unique twist.

Conclusion:

Avocado, Mozzarella, and Tomato salad is the epitome of fresh, simple, and delicious. With its creamy texture, juicy sweetness, and burst of flavor from the basil and dressing, this dish is sure to impress anyone who tastes it. Whether you serve it as a side dish at dinner, enjoy it as a light lunch, or bring it to a potluck, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Quick to make and full of nutritious ingredients, this salad is a great choice for those seeking a healthy and satisfying meal that’s both easy and packed with flavor. Enjoy!