This is one of my favourite summer time snacks... Actually, I LOVE this anytime of the year! However, it always tastes better in the summer when the local tomatoes are grown and are fresh. Tomatoes are loaded with antioxidants, vitamin C, Lycoprene and Beta-Carotine which help fight off free radicals and have been shown to help prevent various types of cancers. Tomatoes also contain fiber, potassium and choline which are great for heart health, prevent constipation, help maintain hydration and improve eye health as well!
Not only does this quick and easy recipe taste great, it provides a ton of health benefits as well! I could go into the health benefits of the other ingredients but that would make this blog a lot longer than I intend. Trust me on this one... this is a light, tasty lunch or snack that will hit the spot when you don't feel like cooking on a hot summer day.
Ingredients
1 large tomato
1 oz fresh mozzarella
5-6 basil leaves
1 tsp balsamic vinegar
2 tsp extra virgin olive oil
fresh ground pepper
Preparation
1. Cut the tomato into 6-8 slices. Cut each slice in half
2. Cut the mozzarella into 6-8 thick slices. Cut each slice in half.
3. Dice the basil leaves.
Directions
Alternate layering a slice of tomato with a slice of mozzarella cheese on a plate. Place the diced basal on top of the layered tomato and cheese. Drizzle the balsamic vinegar and olive oil over top of the salad. Add fresh ground black pepper to suit your individual taste. Enjoy!
Nutrient Breakdown (approx.)
Tomato Serving Size 1 large whole (3" dia)
Amount Per Serving Calories from Fat 3
Calories 33 % Daily Values*
Total Fat 0.36g 1%
Saturated Fat 0.084g 0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.246g
Monounsaturated Fat 0.093g
Cholesterol 0mg 0%
Sodium 9mg 0%
Potassium 431mg
Total Carbohydrate 7.13g 2%
Dietary Fiber 2.2g 9%
Sugars 4.79g
Protein 1.6g
Vitamin A 30%
Vitamin C 38%
Calcium 2%
Iron 3%
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
**https://www.fatsecret.com/calories-nutrition/generic/tomatoes-raw?portionid=22906&portionamount=1.000
Fresh Mozzarella Cheese
Serving Size 1oz
Amount Per Serving
Calories from Fat 60
Calories 80
% Daily Values*
Total Fat 6g 10%
Saturated Fat 4g 20%
Trans Fat 0g
Cholesterol 20mg 7%
Sodium 85mg 4%
Total Carbohydrate 0g 0%
Dietary Fiber 0g 0%
Sugars 0g
Protein 5g
Vitamin A 4%
Vitamin C 0%
Calcium 15%
Iron 0%
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
**nutrient info taken from Stop and Shop Fresh Mozzarella packaging
HAVE ANY QUICK, EASY, NUTRITIOUS RECIPE IDEAS YOU'D LIKE TO SHARE? FEEL FREE TO EMAIL OR ADD IT IN THE COMMENTS SECTION OF MY BLOG!!! I'm always looking for ideas, especially for breakfast!