Pacific Northwest Caprese Salad

Ingredients

In this Pacific Northwest adaptation, we incorporate marionberries, a regional specialty, to add a sweet and tangy element to the traditional Caprese salad. Additionally, we use a dressing made with local honey and apple cider vinegar, which adds a unique flavor profile that reflects the Pacific Northwest's culinary traditions. We alse have the original recipe for Caprese Salad, so you can check it out.

• 4 large heirloom tomatoes, sliced (900g) 4 large heirloom tomatoes, sliced (900g)
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced (225g) 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced (225g)
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves (25g) 1 cup fresh basil leaves (25g)
• 1 cup marionberries (150g) 1 cup marionberries (150g)
• 2 tablespoons local honey (30ml) 2 tablespoons local honey (30ml)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (30ml) 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (30ml)
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 15g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Arrange the sliced tomatoes and mozzarella on a serving platter.
2. 2.
   Scatter the fresh basil leaves and marionberries over the tomatoes and mozzarella.
3. 3.
   In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. 4.
   Drizzle the dressing over the salad.
5. 5.
   Serve immediately and enjoy the flavors of the Pacific Northwest.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Marionberries — Look for ripe marionberries that are plump and juicy. If marionberries are not available, you can substitute with blackberries or raspberries.
• Local honey — Opt for honey sourced from local beekeepers to support the Pacific Northwest's beekeeping industry and enjoy the unique flavors of the region.

Tips & Tricks

• Use a variety of heirloom tomatoes for a visually appealing and flavorful salad.
• Adjust the sweetness and acidity of the dressing by adding more or less honey and apple cider vinegar according to your taste preferences.
• Serve the salad chilled for a refreshing summer dish.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of sea salt and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for added flavor.
• Pair this salad with crusty bread to make it a more substantial meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Pacific Northwest Caprese Salad as a refreshing appetizer or as a side dish to complement grilled seafood or roasted meats. It is best enjoyed fresh and at room temperature.

Presentation advice

Arrange the sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, basil leaves, and marionberries in an aesthetically pleasing pattern on a large platter. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving to maintain its vibrant colors.