Father's Day is the perfect occasion to treat your dad to a delightful and refreshing meal. One dish that combines simplicity and exquisite flavors is the Caprese Salad with Pesto Sauce. This classic Italian salad features fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil leaves, and a drizzle of homemade pesto sauce. It's a light and flavorful option that is sure to impress your dad. In this article, we'll guide you through the preparation and cooking process, so you can create a memorable Caprese Salad with Pesto Sauce for Father's Day.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients 4 ripe tomatoes
8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese
Fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pesto Sauce: 2 cups fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup pine nuts
2 cloves garlic
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Method- Start by preparing the pesto sauce. In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped.
- Gradually add the olive oil while continuing to blend, until the mixture reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste. Set the pesto sauce aside.
- Rinse the tomatoes and pat them dry. Slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Similarly, slice the fresh mozzarella cheese into 1/4-inch thick rounds as well.
- On a serving platter, arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices alternately, overlapping them slightly. Place a fresh basil leaf between each tomato and mozzarella slice.
- Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Finally, generously spoon the prepared pesto sauce over the Caprese salad, allowing it to drizzle over the tomatoes and mozzarella. You can reserve some of the pesto sauce for serving on the side.
- Serve the Caprese Salad with Pesto Sauce immediately, allowing your dad to enjoy the fresh and vibrant flavors.
Note: You can customize the salad by adding a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or a dash of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.