Are you craving something light, fresh, and guaranteed gluten-free? This tomato and mozzarella salad checks all the boxes. You’ll get bursts of flavor from the sweet tomatoes, the creamy cheese, and a hint of basil, without any hidden wheat to worry about. Plus, it’s such a breeze to make that you’ll want to whip it up for lunch, dinner, or even as a party starter.
Ingredients
- 2 large ripe tomatoes
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese (preferably low-moisture)
- Handful of fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Directions
- Wash and slice tomatoes into rounds. Aim for medium-thick slices so they hold up.
- Slice the mozzarella into rounds that match the thickness of your tomato slices.
- Layer tomato and mozzarella slices on a serving plate, alternating each piece.
- Tear or chop basil leaves, then sprinkle them over the top.
- Drizzle with olive oil. If you like, add a light splash of balsamic vinegar for extra zing.
- Season with a pinch of salt and a dash of black pepper. Enjoy right away or chill briefly.
Nutrition facts
Below is a snapshot of the approximate nutrition per serving (assuming two servings total):
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~250 |
| Protein | ~15 g |
| Total Fat | ~19 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~6 g |
| Fiber | ~1 g |
| Gluten | 0 g |
Final thoughts
This salad is a surefire way to incorporate fresh produce into your gluten-free routine. It’s a classic example of simple ingredients coming together to create a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining. Feel free to add extra toppings like olives or roasted peppers to make it your own.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
-
Can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Absolutely. Keep your prepared salad in an airtight container for up to one day. The tomatoes may release some juice, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. -
Is mozzarella cheese gluten-free?
Yes, most mozzarella is naturally gluten-free. Always check the packaging to be sure there are no added fillers. -
Can I swap out the tomatoes?
If you’re out of large tomatoes, cherry or grape tomatoes work great. Just slice them in half or quarters, then follow the same basic assembly steps. -
Is balsamic vinegar gluten-free?
Traditional balsamic vinegar is usually gluten-free, but it’s smart to read the label. Some flavored varieties include additives that may not be suitable for a strict gluten-free diet.
Gluten-Free Recipe for Tomato And Mozzarella Salad
Ingredients
2 large ripe tomatoes
8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese (preferably low-moisture)
Handful fresh basil leaves
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Directions
- Wash and slice tomatoes into rounds. Aim for medium-thick slices so they hold up.
- Slice the mozzarella into rounds that match the thickness of your tomato slices.
- Layer tomato and mozzarella slices on a serving plate, alternating each piece.
- Tear or chop basil leaves, then sprinkle them over the top.
- Drizzle with olive oil. If you like, add a light splash of balsamic vinegar for extra zing.
- Season with a pinch of salt and a dash of black pepper. Enjoy right away or chill briefly.
