| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 238 | 16g | 6g | 15g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 10g | 1g | 10g | 0.40g |
Passionately welcoming all palates to another one of my gastronomical explorations, today we’ll delve into an exquisite and refreshing concoction: the Cantaloupe and Mozzarella Caprese Salad. As a native New Yorker, I’ve been thrilled to witness the influx of various cultures, amalgamating into the culinary fabric of our bustling city. Just as one can traverse across continents and countries by hopping across neighborhoods, so too you can travel with your taste buds. This humble salad embodies this very spirit.
A Mélange of Flavors and Cultures
It’s no secret that the food scene in New York City is synonymously rich and diverse. Delicacies can range from a humble hot dog stand to a lavish haute-cuisine diner, from Polish Pirogies to Serbian Palačinke. Likewise, our Cantaloupe and Mozzarella Caprese Salad pays homage to this eclectic culinary landscape.
Inspired by Italy’s traditional caprese, this tangy salad uniquely blends the succulent sweetness of cantaloupe with the creamy texture of fresh Mozzarella balls, topped off with aromatic basil leaves. A generous drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze adds that necessary tang, tying all the components into a sublime flavor harmony.
Not Just a Feast for Your Taste Buds
One of the underrated aspects of this delectable dish—the Cantaloupe and Mozzarella Caprese Salad—is its impressive health attributes. From bolstering digestive health to bolstering the immune system and promoting skin health, the benefits are manifold.
The cantaloupes, being rich in vitamins A and C, along with an array of minerals, serve as an excellent immunity booster. The basil, a treasure trove of antioxidants, boasts excellent anti-inflammatory properties. Lastly, mozzarella, known for its rich calcium and protein content supports bone health and contributes to building muscle mass.
The Perfect Complement to Your Meal
The beauty of this Cantaloupe and Mozzarella Caprese Salad is that it can seamlessly integrate into a multitude of meals. It makes a flavorful afternoon snack, or the perfect side for Pan-Seared Chicken Breasts with Garlic and Thyme or Slow-Roasted Shoulder of Lamb with Rosemary and Sliced Potatoes.
So whether you prefer a hint of sweet as a side with your juicy burger, want a light yet satisfying snack after your stage rehearsals, or seek a colorful and healthy option for your next summer picnic, this salad will delightfully surprise you every time.
Until next time, let your palate be your guide. Bon appétit!
What You’ll Need
- 2 small or 1 large ripe cantaloupes (approximately 3 pounds total)
- 1 pound fresh mozzarella balls
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
- Coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Method
Step One
Start by halving your cantaloupes and removing the seeds from each half. Once done, proceed to cut the cantaloupes into slices that are around 1-inch thick. Peel the rind from each slice and set aside.
Step Two
Once your cantaloupes are peeled, take your fresh mozzarella balls and cut them in half. Just like the cantaloupes, these should also be set aside.
Step Three
Next, take the fresh basil leaves and chop them roughly. It’s okay if they’re not perfectly uniform in size, as this will add some texture to the finished salad.
Step Four
It’s time to assemble the salad! Arrange the sliced cantaloupes and halved mozzarella balls on a serving platter. Once arranged, sprinkle the chopped basil leaves over the top of the cantaloupe and mozzarella.
Step Five
In a bowl, combine the extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze. Mix well until both ingredients are fully incorporated. This will serve as your dressing for the salad.
Step Six
Once the dressing is prepared, pour it over the assembled salad, trying to coat as evenly as possible. Season the salad with coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step Seven
Give the salad a light toss to make sure everything is coated in the dressing, then serve immediately. Enjoy your Cantaloupe and Mozzarella Caprese Salad!
