Tomato, Basil & Mozzarella Salad

On arriving at Ciampino Airport around lunchtime, we headed north for the cooler temperatures in the hills (it's what the Italians do). Found a lovely little Trattoria, near Montalcino, sat in the garden and had this simple but tasty lunch.

Serves 4
Prep Time 20 min
Ingredients

• 2 tbsp Red wine vinegar
• 1 Clove garlic, crushed
• Salt & freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ tsp Dry mustard
• 75ml/2½ fl oz olive oil
• 4 Vine tomatoes
• 185g/6oz Mozzarella cheese
• 10 Basil leaves

Method

• Dressing: combine vinegar, garlic, salt, mustard & pepper in small bowl, add oil in steady stream, whisking until thoroughly blended.
• Slice tomatoes and cheese into 5mm ¼inch slices.
• Place tomatoes and cheese into large shallow bowl or glass dish.
• Pour dressing over slices, marinate, covered in fridge for at least 30 mins or up to 2 hours, turning occasionally.
• Layer basil leaves on bottom, roll up and slice rest of basil into strips.
• Arrange tomato and cheese slices alternately on serving plate.
• Sprinkle with basil strips, drizzle with remaining oil.

Equipment

• Small bowl
• Large shallow glass dish
• Serving plate

Shopping List

• Red wine vinegar
• Clove garlic
• Dry mustard
• Olive oil
• 4 Vine tomatoes
• Mozzarella cheese
• Basil leaves