Description
This Barefoot Contessa Roasted Tomato Caprese Salad is a vibrant and flavorful twist on the classic Italian Caprese. Slow-roasted cherry tomatoes bring a rich, caramelized sweetness that pairs beautifully with creamy fresh mozzarella and aromatic basil. Drizzled with olive oil and a touch of balsamic glaze, this salad is perfect as a refreshing appetizer or a light meal served at room temperature.
Ingredients
Scale
Tomatoes and Dressing
- 2½ pounds cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup good olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Main Ingredients
- 16 ounces fresh mozzarella (preferably ciliegine or sliced mozzarella)
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn or julienned
Optional Garnishes
- Extra olive oil for drizzling
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Arrange and season tomatoes: Place the halved cherry tomatoes on the prepared pan. Drizzle them evenly with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Sprinkle the sugar, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper over the tomatoes. Toss gently to coat all pieces evenly without breaking them.
- Roast the tomatoes: Roast the seasoned tomatoes in the preheated oven for 2 to 2½ hours. They should become caramelized and slightly dried but still retain juicy interiors. This slow roasting concentrates their natural sweetness and flavor.
- Cool the tomatoes: Once roasted, remove the pan and allow the tomatoes to cool completely to room temperature. This helps preserve their texture for the salad.
- Assemble the salad: On a serving platter, arrange slices or balls of fresh mozzarella alternately with the roasted tomatoes. Scatter the torn or julienned fresh basil leaves evenly over the top to add a fresh herbal note.
- Finish and serve: Drizzle additional olive oil and balsamic glaze over the assembled salad if desired to enhance flavor and presentation. Serve the salad at room temperature for the best taste experience.
Notes
- You can roast the tomatoes a day in advance and keep them refrigerated; bring them to room temperature before serving to maximize flavor.
- Using heirloom cherry tomatoes adds a beautiful variety of colors and intensifies the visual appeal.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute mozzarella with vegan cheese alternatives, though note the flavor will differ.
- Be gentle when tossing the tomatoes to avoid crushing them and losing their juice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Salad
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
