Caprese salad is a classic Italian dish made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. It’s light, refreshing, and full of flavor. Adding spinach to the traditional recipe not only boosts its nutrition but also makes it a more satisfying meal. Best of all, it takes just 10 minutes to prepare! This simple recipe is perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a side dish. Let’s dive into how to make this quick and healthy salad.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 10 minutes with no cooking required.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fresh vegetables, leafy greens, and healthy fats.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a main dish, a side, or even a light snack.
- Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant colors make it visually appealing, perfect for entertaining.
Ingredients.
For this easy Caprese salad with spinach, you’ll need:
- 2 cups fresh spinach (washed and dried)
- 2 large tomatoes (or 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved)
- 1 ball of fresh mozzarella (about 4-6 ounces, sliced or torn into bite-sized pieces)
- Fresh basil leaves (a handful, whole or chopped)
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional for sweetness)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Optional Additions:
- Sliced avocado for extra creaminess.
- A handful of toasted pine nuts for crunch.
- Grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
Step-by-Step Instructions.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients.
- Wash and dry the spinach: Pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel to prevent sogginess.
- Slice the tomatoes: For larger tomatoes, slice them into rounds. If using cherry tomatoes, cut them in half for easy eating.
- Slice the mozzarella: Cut into rounds or tear it into bite-sized chunks for a rustic look.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad.
- Layer the spinach: Start by placing the spinach on a large plate or in a shallow bowl.
- Add tomatoes and mozzarella: Arrange slices of tomato and mozzarella on top of the spinach. You can alternate them for a decorative effect.
- Add basil leaves: Scatter the basil leaves over the salad. You can leave them whole for a bold flavor or chop them finely for a milder taste.
Step 3: Dress the Salad.
- Drizzle olive oil: Pour the olive oil evenly over the salad.
- Add balsamic glaze (optional): If you like a hint of sweetness, drizzle a small amount of balsamic glaze over the top.
- Season: Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Your salad is ready! Serve it immediately as a fresh appetizer, a light lunch, or a side dish. If you’re not eating it right away, store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours. Add the dressing just before serving to keep the spinach crisp.
Nutrition Benefits.
This Caprese salad with spinach is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits:
- Spinach: High in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and fiber. It’s a great base for adding volume and nutrients to the salad.
- Tomatoes: Rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants like lycopene, which support heart health and reduce inflammation.
- Mozzarella: Provides protein and calcium, making the dish more filling and nutritious.
- Basil: Adds a fresh flavor and contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Olive Oil: A source of healthy monounsaturated fats, which are good for heart health.
Tips for Success.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Since this salad has only a few ingredients, their quality really matters. Opt for fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and vibrant spinach.
- Customize to Taste: Adjust the olive oil, balsamic glaze, or seasoning to your liking. If you prefer a stronger flavor, try adding a sprinkle of Italian seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Make It a Meal: To turn this salad into a complete meal, pair it with crusty whole-grain bread or add a protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
- Keep It Fresh: If prepping in advance, store the spinach separately from the wet ingredients like tomatoes and mozzarella. Add everything together just before serving to maintain freshness.
Variations to Try.
- Keto-Friendly Caprese: Skip the balsamic glaze and add avocado or extra mozzarella for a high-fat, low-carb option.
- Caprese Pasta Salad: Toss the ingredients with cooked and cooled pasta for a heartier dish.
- Caprese Skewers: Thread spinach, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil onto skewers for a portable snack or appetizer.
- Pesto Caprese: Drizzle a bit of pesto instead of olive oil for a herby, rich flavor twist.
Why Spinach Makes a Difference.
While traditional Caprese salad uses only tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, spinach adds a wonderful texture and boosts the dish’s nutritional profile. The mild, slightly earthy flavor of spinach complements the creamy mozzarella and juicy tomatoes, making this version more satisfying and well-rounded.
Serving Suggestions.
- Pair this salad with grilled chicken or fish for a complete, balanced meal.
- Serve it as a side dish alongside pasta or pizza for an Italian-inspired dinner.
- Enjoy it on its own for a light, refreshing lunch, especially during warm weather.
This 10-minute Caprese salad with spinach is a versatile, healthy, and flavorful dish that works for almost any occasion. Its simple preparation, vibrant flavors, and nutrient-packed ingredients make it a favorite among busy cooks and food lovers alike. Try it today—you’ll be amazed at how delicious and easy it is to make!
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