Tomato, Stracciatella and Basil Oil
20 Minutes
〰️
20 Minutes 〰️
Serves 4
Ingredients
3 handfuls of mixed tomatoes (a variety of cherry tomatoes and larger ones, assorted colors and shapes recommended)
1 bunch of basil
1 cup of olive oil
Pinch of salt
200 grams of Stracciatella cheese
Method
Make the Basil Oil
Blanch the Basil: Bring a small pot of water to a boil. Blanch the basil leaves for about 10 seconds, then immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This step helps to preserve the basil's bright green colour.
Blend the Basil and Oil: Drain the basil leaves and pat them dry with paper towels. Place the basil in a blender with the olive oil and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth. For a clearer oil, you can strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth; for a more rustic and full-flavored oil, leave it as is.
Store: Transfer the basil oil to a container. It can be used immediately or stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Give it a good shake or stir before using if the ingredients have separated.
Prepare the Salad
Prepare the Tomatoes: Wash and dry the tomatoes. Slice larger tomatoes into wedges or thick slices and halve or keep whole the cherry tomatoes, depending on their size. The goal is to have a variety of shapes and sizes for visual appeal and texture.
Assemble the Salad: Arrange the tomatoes on a serving platter or in a salad bowl. Spoon generous dollops of Stracciatella cheese over the tomatoes. Just before serving, generously drizzle the basil oil over the tomatoes and stracciatella cheese. The vibrant green oil will not only add a fresh, herby flavour but also make the colours of the tomatoes pop.
Season: Finish the salad with a pinch of salt. You can also add a few fresh basil leaves as a garnish for an extra touch of freshness.
Notes
If you can’t find Stracciatella cheese, use Burrata or Buffalo mozzarella. Making herb oils is such a great way to use up old herbs that have seen better days, you can use any combination of herbs and keep these beautiful oils in a jar for later.