Caprese Salad with Vegan Mozzarella Recipe

This Caprese Salad with Vegan Mozzarella is a fresh and vibrant twist on the classic Italian dish. It features juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and the creamy richness of vegan mozzarella, all drizzled with olive oil and balsamic glaze. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it as a light lunch, this vegan version of the beloved Caprese salad is sure to please.

Ingredients:

3 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
1 block of vegan mozzarella (store-bought or homemade), sliced
1 cup fresh basil leaves, whole or chopped
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp balsamic glaze or balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tsp dried oregano (optional)
1 tbsp pine nuts or walnuts (optional, for crunch)

Instructions:

Prepare the Tomatoes and Mozzarella: Slice the tomatoes into thick rounds and arrange them on a large plate or platter. Slice the vegan mozzarella into similar-sized rounds, then layer them between the tomato slices.
Add Fresh Basil: Scatter fresh basil leaves over the top of the tomatoes and mozzarella. You can tear larger basil leaves into smaller pieces for a more rustic look or leave them whole for a more elegant presentation.
Season: Drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the salad, followed by a drizzle of balsamic glaze (or vinegar if preferred). Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle some dried oregano for an extra herbal touch.
Add Crunch (Optional): For a bit of texture and extra flavor, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top of the salad.
Serve: Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve as a refreshing appetizer or a light main dish alongside crusty bread or a side salad.
Enjoy: This Caprese Salad with Vegan Mozzarella is best enjoyed immediately, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for a few hours if needed.

Tips:

Vegan Mozzarella: If you’re not a fan of store-bought vegan mozzarella, you can easily make your own using cashews or coconut oil-based recipes, or simply use a creamy vegan cheese spread.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil is a key component of the flavor in this dish. For the best results, make sure to use vibrant, aromatic leaves.
Balsamic Glaze: Balsamic glaze adds a sweet and tangy note to the salad. If you prefer a lighter flavor, you can use regular balsamic vinegar, but be sure to drizzle lightly.

This Caprese Salad with Vegan Mozzarella is the perfect balance of savory, creamy, and fresh, making it a delightful addition to any meal or a simple stand-alone dish for vegan and non-vegan eaters alike. Enjoy the bright flavors of summer year-round!