caprese salad calories

 

Caprese salad is a classic Italian dish that is made with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil. It's a light and refreshing salad that's perfect for a summer day. Here's a recipe for Caprese salad, along with its calorie count:

Ingredients:

  • 4 ripe tomatoes
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Balsamic glaze, for drizzling (optional)

Directions:

  1. Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella cheese into 1/4-inch-thick slices.
  2. Arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices on a large serving platter, alternating between them.
  3. Sprinkle the basil leaves over the top of the tomato and mozzarella slices.
  4. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad.
  5. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
  6. If desired, drizzle balsamic glaze over the top of the salad.

Calories:

The calorie count for this Caprese salad recipe will depend on the size of the tomatoes and the amount of mozzarella cheese used. Here's a breakdown of the estimated calorie count:

  • 4 ripe tomatoes: 100 calories
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese: 480 calories
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves: 2 calories
  • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil: 240 calories
  • Salt and pepper, to taste: negligible calories
  • Balsamic glaze, for drizzling (optional): 50 calories

Total calorie count: Approximately 872 calories for the entire salad. This estimate assumes that the entire recipe is consumed, and does not account for variations in serving size or individual ingredient brands.

FAQ:

Q1. how many calories in a caprese salad

A. The calorie count for a Caprese salad will depend on the size and amount of ingredients used. Generally, a basic Caprese salad made with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil, drizzled with olive oil and seasoned with salt and pepper, will contain around 200-300 calories per serving. The exact calorie count will depend on the specific brands and amounts of ingredients used. If additional ingredients such as balsamic glaze, croutons, or other toppings are added, the calorie count will increase accordingly.

Caprese Salad Benefits:

Caprese salad offers several health benefits, thanks to its nutritious ingredients. Here are some of the benefits of this delicious Italian salad:

  1. Rich in vitamins and minerals: Tomatoes, a key ingredient in Caprese salad, are a great source of vitamin C, potassium, and folate. Fresh basil, another main ingredient in the salad, is rich in vitamin K and antioxidants.
  2. Low in calories: Caprese salad is a low-calorie option that can help you stay on track with your weight loss goals. One serving of Caprese salad typically contains only around 200-300 calories.
  3. High in protein: The fresh mozzarella cheese used in Caprese salad is a good source of protein, which helps to keep you full and satisfied.
  4. Heart-healthy: The monounsaturated fats found in extra-virgin olive oil, which is often used to dress Caprese salad, can help to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease.
  5. Low in carbohydrates: Caprese salad is a great option for those who are following a low-carbohydrate or keto diet, as it contains very few carbs.
  6. Antioxidant-rich: Tomatoes and basil contain antioxidants, which are important for protecting your body against damage from free radicals. These free radicals can contribute to chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer's disease.
  7. Low in sodium: Caprese salad is naturally low in sodium, which is important for those who are trying to reduce their salt intake. Excessive sodium intake can contribute to high blood pressure and other health problems.
  8. Boosts hydration: Tomatoes are high in water content, which can help to keep you hydrated. Adequate hydration is important for overall health and can help to improve digestion, boost energy levels, and promote healthy skin.
  9. Gluten-free: Caprese salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a good option for those who have celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
  10. Easy to customize: Caprese salad is a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking. You can add additional ingredients such as grilled chicken, avocado, or roasted vegetables to make it more filling and nutritious. You can also experiment with different dressings and seasonings to create your own unique version of this classic salad.Overall, Caprese salad is a delicious and healthy dish that can be enjoyed as a side dish, appetizer, or light lunch. Its combination of fresh and flavorful ingredients makes it a great choice for those who want to eat healthy while still enjoying delicious food.

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