Summer is in full force over here in Texas. The heat index is over 100 degrees pretty much every day. I am so ready for fall…or winter really. Texas doesn’t seem to have seasons. Just hot, hotter, super hot, and mildly cool. Are you looking for a side that won’t heat up your kitchen? Whip up this easy Low Carb Caprese Salad as a side for your next summer barbecue or dinner party! It’s so easy and requires four simple ingredients. There are only 2 NET CARBS (winning!)! In addition, tomatoes are the star of this dish, and are in peak season in the summer. Did I mention it’s pretty and colorful, too?
The Ingredients
Tomatoes!
Summer is peak season for tomatoes. I used organic grape tomatoes that I found at my local farmer’s market. They were bursting with flavor and had a nice pop when I bit into them. I love using the smallest grape or cherry tomato available for this dish, so it’s easy to eat and you don’t have to cut up the tomatoes.
The Cheese
My local grocery store carries fresh mozzarella pearls. Each pearl is about the size of a large grape. These are the perfect size for this side. If you can’t find the mozzarella pearls, purchase fresh buffalo mozzarella and cut it into cubes.
Basil
One of my favorite herbs of all time (aside from tarragon) – basil! It’s so fragrant and wonderful, and adds a punch of green to the dish. A little bit goes a long way. I chop up about one ounce for the entire dish, and save a few sprinkles for garnish.
Olive Oil
Light olive oil is great for this side dish. It’s light in flavor, so it won’t overpower the rest of the dish. It’s definitely a preference though – use extra virgin if you would like! Olive oil is heart healthy and great when served without being cooked.
The Execution
Seriously guys. This is so easy. Drain the mozzarella pearls. Next, add the mozzarella and tomatoes to a bowl. Finely chop the basil and throw it in there also. Last but not least, add the olive oil and salt and pepper to taste! Stir with a spatula and you’re ready to go!
This dish is best when served immediately. The olive oil doesn’t do well in the fridge, so don’t prepare until you’re ready to chow down.
What’s your favorite way to make Low Carb Caprese Salad?
Easy Low Carb Caprese Salad
The Caprese Salad is quick and easy. It only requires four ingredients and is ready in a snap.
Ingredients
- 16 oz fresh mozzarella Preferably pearls (small balls)
- 20 oz grape tomatoes
- 2 tbsp light olive oil
- 2 oz fresh basil finely chopped
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Drain the mozzarella pearls. If using a large ball of fresh mozzarella, cut it into bite-sized cubes.
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Place mozzarella in a large bowl. Add grape tomatoes.
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Finely chop the basil and add it to the bowl of cheese and tomatoes.
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Add 2 tbsp of olive oil to the bowl. Gently stir with a spatula until all of the mozzarella and tomatoes are coated evenly in olive oil and basil.
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Serve immediately. Enjoy!
Recipe Notes
Note - this is best when served immediately. The olive oil does not refrigerate well.
Nutrition Information: Calories: 185; Total Fat: 14 g; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Trans Fat: 0 g; Cholesterol: 0 g; Sodium: 3 mg; Potassium: 172 mg; Total Carbohydrates: 3 g; Fiber: 1 g; Sugar 2 g; NET CARBS: 2 g; Protein 11 g
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