For a superb taste delight, use only the best ingredients available, especially the tomatoes. If homegrown garden or quality vine-ripened commercial tomatoes aren't available--then wait until they are to make this dish.

Fresh Mozzarella, Tomato and Basil Salad

Salad Dressing:

2 tablespoons Balsamic or red wine vinegar
3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
1/2 cup olive oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper, coarsely ground

 

Salad:
4 large ripe tomatoes
1 pound (16 ounces) Wisconsin Fresh Mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

1. In a small bowl whisk together all salad dressing ingredients.
2. Cut tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick slices. Drain Fresh Mozzarella from water; cut into 1/4-inch slices.
3. Arrange tomatoes, Mozzarella and fresh basil leaves on individual plates; drizzle with salad dressing.
4. Sprinkle with chopped fresh basil leaves. Let stand 10 minutes to blend flavors.

Makes 6 servings.

Recipe and photograph courtesy of Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board, Inc.