Mozzarella and Tomato Salad is a fresh, vibrant dish perfect for a light meal or as an appetizer. Ripe tomatoes and creamy mozzarella cheese are layered and drizzled with a flavorful balsamic vinaigrette and fresh basil leaves. This salad is quick to prepare and ready in under 15 minutes!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) ripe tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (preferably aged for a richer flavor)
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp ground coriander
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (or 1 tsp dried basil)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Directions

·        Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by selecting ripe, firm tomatoes. Ripe tomatoes have a fuller flavor and will hold up better during cooking. Slice them into 1/4-inch rounds. This thickness ensures the tomatoes cook evenly and retain some of their texture.

Grate the fresh ginger. Fresh ginger adds a zesty, slightly sweet flavor that complements the acidity of the tomatoes and the creaminess of the mozzarella.

Chop the fresh basil and parsley if you are using them for garnish. Fresh herbs add a burst of freshness and color to the dish.

·        Mix the Seasonings

Combine the grated ginger, balsamic vinegar, sweet paprika, chili powder, ground coriander, and olive oil. This mixture will be the base of your flavorful marinade.

Use aged balsamic vinegar to add a deeper, more complex sweetness and acidity. If you don’t have aged balsamic, a good quality regular balsamic will work fine.

The sweet paprika adds a mild sweetness and color, while the chili powder introduces a hint of heat. Ground coriander adds a warm, citrusy note, balancing the spices and vinegar.

·        Season the Tomatoes

Add the sliced tomatoes to the bowl with the seasoning mixture. Gently toss the tomatoes to ensure each slice is evenly coated. Be careful not to break the tomato slices while tossing.

Allow the tomatoes to marinate for about 5 minutes if time permits. This helps the flavors to meld together and infuse into the tomatoes, enhancing their overall taste.

·        Cook in the Air Fryer

Transfer the seasoned tomatoes to a pan or baking dish that fits into your air fryer basket. Arrange the tomato slices in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Overcrowding the pan can lead to uneven cooking and less effective flavor development.

Set your air fryer to 360°F (180°C) and cook the tomatoes for 12 minutes. The air fryer will caramelize the edges of the tomatoes, concentrating their flavor and adding a slight crispness.

If your air fryer requires preheating, do so according to the manufacturer’s instructions before adding the tomatoes.

·        Assemble the Salad

Once the tomatoes are cooked, remove the pan from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. This resting period allows the tomatoes to retain their juices and flavors.

Divide the warm tomatoes among serving bowls. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. The warmth from the tomatoes will gently melt the cheese, creating a pleasing contrast between the creamy cheese and tender tomatoes.

·        Garnish and Serve

Garnish the salad with chopped fresh basil and parsley for added color and flavor. Fresh basil pairs beautifully with tomatoes and mozzarella, adding a herbaceous note that enhances the overall taste.

Serve the salad at room temperature or slightly chilled. This dish makes an excellent appetizer or side dish, perfect for a light lunch or as a complement to a hearty main course.

Tips

For added flavor and visual appeal, consider using a mix of heirloom tomatoes or cherry tomatoes along with standard slicing tomatoes. Heirloom tomatoes offer unique flavor profiles and vibrant colors.

While shredded mozzarella is convenient, using fresh mozzarella balls or burrata can elevate the dish. Fresh mozzarella adds a creamy texture and richer flavor. Burrata, with its creamy center, offers an indulgent touch.

Drizzle a bit of honey or a splash of lemon juice over the tomatoes before serving. Honey enhances the sweetness, while lemon juice adds a bright, acidic kick.

This salad pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, grilled chicken, or a simple pasta dish. It also makes a delightful topping for bruschetta or a fresh side for a summer BBQ.

Nutrition

• Calories: 185
• Fat: 8g
• Carbs: 4g
• Protein: 8g

How to enhance the Mozzarella and Tomato Salad dish

Add sliced olives, capers, or a sprinkle of feta cheese to give the salad a Mediterranean flair. These additions can complement the tomatoes and mozzarella with briny and tangy flavors.

Experiment with other fresh herbs such as thyme, oregano, or dill. Each herb imparts a unique flavor that can enhance the salad according to your preference.

For those who enjoy a bit more heat, add a dash of hot sauce or a few finely chopped fresh chilies to the seasoning mix. This will introduce a spicy element that contrasts nicely with the creamy mozzarella.

Download the printable recipe below