Keto Pesto Caprese Salad
This caprese salad is a simple Italian classic made with fresh tomatoes, creamy buffalo mozzarella, and pesto. It comes together in just a few minutes, making it perfect as a light meal or side dish.
Ingredients
- Tomatoes: Use ripe, firm tomatoes with plenty of flavor. Tomatoes that are too soft can release excess liquid and make the salad watery. Cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes can also be used and should be halved before mixing.
- Buffalo Mozzarella: Buffalo mozzarella has a soft, creamy texture and a slightly richer flavor than mozzarella made with cow’s milk. Drain it well before dicing to prevent excess liquid from collecting in the bottom of the bowl.
- Pesto: Pesto seasons the entire salad and adds basil, garlic, Parmesan, pine nut, and olive oil flavors. Homemade pesto or store-bought can be used. Check the ingredients and nutritional information when choosing a store-bought pesto if carbohydrate content is important.
Expert Tips
Use Ripe Tomatoes
Because this salad contains only a few ingredients, the quality of the tomatoes makes a noticeable difference. Choose tomatoes that are ripe, fragrant, and flavorful but still firm enough to hold their shape when diced.
Mix Gently
Buffalo mozzarella is soft and can break apart easily. Fold the ingredients together gently with a spoon or spatula rather than stirring vigorously.
Serve Immediately
The tomatoes begin releasing liquid once they are cut and mixed with the pesto. Serve the salad shortly after preparing it for the freshest texture and best appearance.
Storage and Leftovers
Caprese salad is best served immediately after it is prepared. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, although the tomatoes will release moisture and the mozzarella may soften as it sits.
Gently drain away any excess liquid before serving the leftovers. Freezing is not recommended because both the tomatoes and fresh mozzarella will lose their texture once thawed.
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Keto Pesto Caprese Salad
Ingredients
- 2 tomatoes
- 9 oz buffalo mozzarella
- 2 tbsp pesto
- pine nuts optional garnish
Instructions
- Dice the tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella into evenly sized pieces.
- Add the tomatoes and mozzarella to a mixing bowl.
- Spoon over the pesto and gently mix until evenly coated.
- Serve immediately.
Thanks for this recipe 🙂