Marinated Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Salad

This Marinated Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Salad is the perfect dish for warm weather gatherings, picnics, or a light lunch. It’s simple to prepare, showcasing fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors that scream summer. The marinated tomatoes infused with olive oil, lemon, and garlic blend beautifully with creamy mozzarella and fragrant basil. This salad not only offers a burst of taste but also caters to various occasions—from casual get-togethers to elegant dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few steps and no cooking required, this salad is quick to make.
• Fresh Ingredients: The use of ripe cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side, appetizer, or even a light main dish; it fits any dining occasion.
• Colorful Presentation: The vibrant colors of the salad make it visually appealing on any table.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with nutritious ingredients, this salad is both delicious and good for you.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Marinated Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Salad, you’ll need a few essential tools to make the process smooth.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for combining all ingredients evenly.
• Knife: A sharp knife allows for easy slicing of tomatoes and mozzarella without squishing them.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 12 oz Cherry Tomatoes – sliced in half or quarters depending on size (rainbow varieties are delightful!)
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic (finely diced)
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves (thinly sliced)
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella
• Salt (to taste)
• Juice from half of a fresh lemon (about 1-2 tablespoons)
• Lemon zest (optional)

How to Make Marinated Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Salad

Step 1: Marinate the Tomatoes

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the sliced cherry tomatoes with olive oil, finely diced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest (if using), and thinly sliced basil.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are coated in the marinade.
3. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Step 2: Combine with Mozzarella

1. After marinating, remove the bowl from the fridge.
2. Add salt to taste, mixing it gently into the marinated tomatoes.
3. Just before serving, toss in the fresh mozzarella cubes or balls.

Step 3: Serve Your Salad

1. Transfer your Marinated Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Salad to a serving dish.
2. Optionally serve it alongside crostini for a delightful crunch!

Enjoy this refreshing salad as part of your summer meals!

How to Serve Marinated Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Salad

This marinated cherry tomato and mozzarella salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch, a side at dinner, or as part of a picnic spread, there are plenty of options to make it shine.

As a Standalone Salad

• Fresh and Light: Enjoy the salad on its own for a refreshing dish that highlights the vibrant flavors of summer.
• With Grilled Chicken: Pair with grilled chicken for a protein boost and a complete meal.

On Crostini

• Tasty Appetizer: Spread the marinated mixture on toasted crostini for an easy appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests.
• Bruschetta Style: Add a sprinkle of balsamic glaze on top for an extra layer of flavor.

As Part of a Charcuterie Board

• Colorful Addition: Include the salad alongside cured meats, cheeses, and olives for a beautiful charcuterie spread.
• Great Pairing: The bright flavors complement rich cheeses like brie or aged cheddar perfectly.

With Pasta

• Pasta Toss: Mix the salad with cooked pasta for a quick and flavorful meal.
• Cold Pasta Salad: Allow to chill for a refreshing cold pasta salad option, perfect for picnics.

How to Perfect Marinated Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Salad

To ensure your marinated cherry tomato and mozzarella salad is always delicious, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for ripe cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella to bring out the best flavors in the salad.
• Marinate Longer: Letting the tomatoes marinate for longer (up to an hour) enhances the depth of flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving; you may need more salt or lemon juice depending on personal preference.
• Add Zest: Incorporate lemon zest to intensify the citrus flavor without adding more liquid.
• Serve Chilled: For maximum freshness, serve the salad straight from the fridge.
• Experiment with Herbs: Try adding herbs like oregano or parsley for additional flavor variations.

Best Side Dishes for Marinated Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Salad

This marinated cherry tomato and mozzarella salad pairs well with several side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Crisp garlic bread complements the fresh flavors perfectly while adding satisfying crunch.
2. Grilled Vegetables: A medley of grilled veggies brings smoky undertones that balance the salad’s brightness.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers and feta adds more texture while keeping it healthy.
4. Caprese Skewers: Mini skewers with cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella provide easy finger food alongside your main dish.
5. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side that pairs nicely.
6. Antipasto Platter: Offer an assortment of olives, artichokes, and cured meats to round out your meal’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Marinated Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Salad, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to keep in mind:

• Rushing the marination: Not allowing enough time for the flavors to meld can result in a bland salad. Aim for at least 20 minutes, but an hour is even better.
• Over-salting: Adding too much salt can overpower the fresh ingredients. Start with a little and adjust to taste after marinating.
• Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using stale or old tomatoes or basil can ruin the dish. Always select fresh, high-quality produce for the best flavor.
• Cutting vegetables unevenly: Inconsistent sizes can affect how well the ingredients mix and marinate. Cut your tomatoes into similar sizes for even flavor distribution.
• Skipping the garlic: Garlic adds depth and flavor that elevates this salad. Don’t skip it; finely dice it for maximum impact.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The salad will stay fresh for about 2-3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Marinated Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Salad

• Freezing is not recommended for this salad as it affects texture.
• If you must freeze, consider separating components (mozzarella and tomatoes) before freezing.

Reheating Marinated Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), then warm for about 5-10 minutes. This is best for crostini if made separately.
• Microwave: Heat on low power in short bursts of 15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until just heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Marinated Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Salad:

Can I use other cheeses besides mozzarella?

Yes, feel free to substitute with feta or burrata for different flavors.

How long should I marinate the salad?

Marinating for at least 20 minutes enhances flavor, but longer is even better.

Can I add more vegetables to my Marinated Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Salad?

Absolutely! Cucumbers, bell peppers, or red onions work well as additions.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this salad are naturally gluten-free.

What can I serve with this salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as part of a summer picnic spread.

Final Thoughts

The Marinated Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Salad embodies summer’s vibrant flavors and simplicity. It’s refreshing, versatile, and perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables!

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Marinated Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Salad

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Experience the vibrant flavors of summer with this Marinated Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Salad. This refreshing dish is ideal for warm-weather gatherings, picnics, or a light lunch. The juicy cherry tomatoes are marinated in a blend of olive oil, lemon, and garlic, complementing the creamy mozzarella and fragrant basil beautifully. With its colorful presentation and fresh ingredients, this salad not only bursts with flavor but also caters to any occasion—from casual get-togethers to elegant dinners. Enjoy it as a standalone dish, serve it on crostini, or add it to your favorite charcuterie board for an exquisite culinary experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz cherry tomatoes
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic (finely diced)
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves (thinly sliced)
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella
• Salt (to taste)
• Juice from half a fresh lemon

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine sliced cherry tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and basil. Mix well and cover.
2. Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to marinate.
3. Add salt to taste and gently fold in the mozzarella just before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: No Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: ½ cup
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. Allow longer marination (up to an hour) for enhanced taste. Experiment with additional herbs like oregano for creative variations.