Description
At its heart, this dish is a reimagined version of the Insalata Caprese. A standard Caprese usually features sliced ingredients laid out on a flat platter. In contrast, a Caprese Stack Salad with Balsamic Pearls utilizes a vertical presentation. By alternating thick slices of tomato and mozzarella, the salad becomes a sculptural element on the plate.
Ingredients
Caprese Stack
2 large ripe tomatoes (heirloom if possible)
8 oz (225 g) fresh mozzarella (log or large balls)
Fresh basil leaves
Extra-virgin olive oil
Salt (sea salt or kosher)
Freshly ground black pepper
Balsamic Pearls
½ cup balsamic vinegar
1 g (about ½ tsp) agar-agar powder
½ cup neutral oil (vegetable or canola), well chilled
Small squeeze bottle, dropper, or spoon
Instructions
Make the Balsamic Pearls (do this first)
Chill the oil
Place the oil in a small glass or bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.Heat balsamic mixture
In a small saucepan, whisk the balsamic vinegar and agar-agar together.
Bring to a gentle boil, whisking constantly, and simmer for 30–60 seconds until fully dissolved.Cool slightly
Remove from heat and let it cool for about 1 minute (still liquid, not setting).Form pearls
Drop the balsamic mixture into the cold oil using a dropper or spoon.
It will form tiny pearls instantly.Strain & rinse
Strain the pearls through a fine sieve and gently rinse with cold water.
Set aside.
Assemble the Caprese Stack
Slice
Cut tomatoes and mozzarella into even, round slices (about ¼ inch thick).Layer
On each plate, stack:Tomato slice
Mozzarella slice
Basil leaf
Repeat once or twice, finishing with tomato or mozzarella.
Season
Drizzle lightly with olive oil.
Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground pepper.Finish
Spoon balsamic pearls over and around the stack.
Optional Add-Ons
Toasted pine nuts or pistachios
Avocado slices
Burrata instead of mozzarella
A light balsamic glaze drizzle (in addition to pearls)
Notes
For extra flavor and texture, try adding a few slices of ripe avocado, a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts, or a handful of arugula between the layers. A light drizzle of basil-infused olive oil or a pinch of flaky sea salt just before serving will elevate the freshness and balance the sweetness of the balsamic pearls.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad / Appetizer
- Method: Assemble
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stack
- Calories: 280 kcal
Keywords: Deconstructed Caprese salad with vinegar spheres, stacked tomato mozzarella salad with pearls, molecular gastronomy Caprese appetizer, layered Italian salad with balsamic beads.