American Flag Caprese Salad Recipes

AMERICAN FLAG CAPRESE SALAD WITH BLUEBERRY-BALSAMIC VINAIGRETTE

Steps:

• Trim the stem end off each tomato, so they sit flat on their cut sides. Discard the ends or save for another use.
• Begin assembling an American flag by arranging one row of 10 tomatoes, cut-side down, on a large platter or cutting board. Arrange a row of 10 mozzarella balls directly below the tomatoes, and repeat with another row of tomatoes, another row of mozzarella balls, and another row of tomatoes. On the third row of mozzarella balls, add 5 more to extend the row to the left. Repeat with tomatoes and mozzarella balls two more times, ending with tomatoes.
• Set aside 1/4 cup blueberries. Arrange the remaining blueberries in a square to the right of the shorter rows of tomatoes and mozzarella balls.
• Slice mozzarella into 4 pieces, then cut each piece into quarters. Using a paring knife, cut a star from each quarter, creating 16 stars total. (Alternatively, use a small star cookie cutter.) Gently arrange the mozzarella stars on top of the blueberries.
• Combine the reserved 1/4 cup blueberries, oil, vinegar, honey, shallot, salt and pepper in a blender; blend until smooth. Scatter basil leaves around the flag, if desired, and serve with the dressing on the side.

AMERICAN FLAG CAPRESE SALAD

Steps:

• Preheat the oven to 375°F.
• Wash blueberries, wash and slice tomatoes, and dry the fresh mozzarella slices. Set aside.
• Cut 12 mini stars out of 3 slices of fresh mozzarella using a mini star cutter. Set aside.
• With a serrated knife, slice the baguette on the diagonal into 20 even slices. Brush each slice on both sides with olive oil and place in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 6-8 minutes, until lightly toasted and golden brown around the edges.
• Make the Blueberry Balsamic Drizzle, by whisking the wild blueberry preserves, olive oil and balsamic vinegar together until well combined. Set aside.

CAPRESE SALAD

Steps:

• Slice the tomatoes and cheese into 1/4-inch thick slices. Arrange the salad on a serving platter or individual plates in an alternating pattern, with two to three slices of tomato for every piece of cheese. Season with the salt and pepper to taste. Scatter the basil leaves over the top and drizzle with the oil. Serve at room temperature.