Haven's Baby-friendly Tomato Caprese Salad

Ingredients

  • 5-6 cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered. Use a mix of varieties for color and flavor
  • 6-7 "pearl" mozzerella balls
  • 1 Tbsp aged Balsamic Vinegar
  • 3-4 leaves fresh Basil, cut into thin ribbons. Like the tomatoes, experiment with different varieties.
  • 1 Tbsp good quality first cold-pressed extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO)
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Pink Himalayan salt or sea salt. Avoid using fine table salt as it tends to have a harsh, overpowering flavor. This dish is best enjoyed with a mellow, good quality sea salt.
  • Note: if you can't find pearl mozzarella balls at your local supermarket or specialty store, simply cut any soft mozzarella into bite-sized pieces about the same size as the tomato pieces.
  • Tip: to cut basil into ribbons, lay the leaves on top of one another, and roll into a tight roll. Slice thinly across the roll with a paring knife.

Instructions

  1. Combine tomatoes, mozzerella, and basil in a small mixing bowl.
  2. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and EVOO. Salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Serve as "finger food" for baby, or in a pretty dish as an elegant side for older children or grown ups.