Caprese Salad
Insalata Caprese
- Country
- Italy
- Region
- Campania
- Recipes
- 3 Recipes
Origins & Characteristics of Caprese Salad
Caprese Salad, or Insalata Caprese, is a vibrant and iconic dish from the Campania region, specifically the island of Capri, which gives the salad its name. This simple yet elegant dish is a culinary tribute to the Italian flag, with its red tomatoes, white mozzarella, and green basil. While its exact origins are debated, popular theory suggests its creation in the early 20th century, possibly after World War I, perhaps to honor an Italian king or due to the ingenuity of a local chef at the Grand Hotel Quisisana on Capri, seeking a light, refreshing meal. Another anecdote links its popularity to the Italian Futurist movement, which discouraged traditional, heavy meals. The 'Futurist Cookbook,' published in 1932 by Filippo Tommaso Marinetti, sought to reinvent Italian dining, though Caprese itself isn't directly mentioned, its simplicity aligns with a broader call for lighter, more modern dishes. The key to an authentic Caprese lies in the quality of its components: ripe, sweet tomatoes (often San Marzano or heirloom varieties), fresh mozzarella di bufala (buffalo mozzarella) or fior di latte (cow's milk mozzarella) from Campania, and fragrant basil leaves. A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of salt are the only enhancements needed. The salad represents the essence of Mediterranean diet—fresh, seasonal, and minimally processed ingredients. It has become a global symbol of Italian summer cuisine, celebrated for its refreshing qualities and beautiful simplicity.
History of Caprese Salad
Possible origin of Caprese salad on the island of Capri, Italy.
Introduction of fresh mozzarella di bufala widely outside Campania, boosting Caprese's popularity.
Caprese salad gains notoriety among international tourists visiting Capri and the Amalfi Coast.
Caprese salad becomes a staple on Italian restaurant menus worldwide.
