Tree Caprese Salad Board – Easy Festive Holiday Appetizer
Bring a festive touch to your holiday table with this beautiful Tree Caprese Salad. Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze come together on a wooden serving board to create a stunning appetizer that looks as delicious as it tastes.
Categories: SNACKS
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Ingredients
- 6 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced into rounds
- 1 1/2 lbs fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into rounds
- 1 large bunch fresh basil leaves
- 1 slice provolone cheese, cut into a star shape
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Cooking Instructions
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01
Wash and thoroughly dry the tomatoes and fresh basil. Slice the tomatoes into even rounds, approximately 1/4 inch thick. Drain the fresh mozzarella and cut it into similar-sized slices.
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02
Place a large tree-shaped wooden serving board on a flat surface. If you do not have one, use a large rectangular serving platter and arrange the ingredients in a tree shape.
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03
Starting near the top of the board, arrange the tomato slices in horizontal rows. Make each row progressively wider as you move toward the bottom to create the shape of a tree.
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04
Arrange the mozzarella slices in alternating horizontal rows between the tomato slices. Slightly overlap the pieces to create a beautiful layered pattern.
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05
Place fresh basil leaves along the sides of the tomato and mozzarella rows. Add a few small basil sprigs between the layers to create the appearance of tree branches.
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06
Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil evenly over the tomatoes and mozzarella. Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
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07
Drizzle balsamic glaze over the entire arrangement in thin decorative lines. Avoid adding too much, as the glaze should complement rather than overpower the fresh ingredients.
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08
Cut a star from a slice of provolone cheese using a small star-shaped cutter. Place it at the top of the tree to complete the festive presentation.
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09
Serve immediately while the mozzarella is fresh and the basil is fragrant. Keep the board chilled if preparing ahead, and add the olive oil and balsamic glaze shortly before serving.
Chef notes
Choose ripe but firm tomatoes to maintain their shape and prevent excess liquid from collecting on the serving board. Use fresh mozzarella with a firm texture rather than very watery mozzarella to keep the presentation neat. Pat the mozzarella dry with paper towels before arranging it to remove excess moisture. For the best flavor, use fresh basil rather than dried basil. You can substitute provolone with a firm slice of mozzarella or another mild white cheese for the decorative star. Prepare the tomato, mozzarella, and basil arrangement up to 2 hours ahead and refrigerate it covered. Add the dressing just before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This appetizer is best enjoyed fresh and should not be reheated.
