A vegan version of the classic Italian caprese salad
The refreshing light taste of a caprese salad is something I have truly missed. Fresh aromatic basil with the sweetness of juicy tomatoes and a soft light cheese- mmmmmm, so good and so perfect for summer. Here's a vegan version where we simply use silken tofu as a mozzarella replacement. It honestly works so well, plus, compared to mozzarella it has lower saturated fat and no cholesterol!
Silk Tofu as Cheese?
Yes, silk tofu is the mozzarella in this recipe and it works so well! It's light but provides a good texture and compliments the tomato, basil and balsamic glaze wonderfully. It's also a great way to add protein and healthy fats to your diet!
Silken Tofu vs Fresh Mozzarella
Below is a comparison of nutritional value of 100 grams of fresh mozzarella and silken tofu.
Silken Tofu
- Saturated Fat: 0.7 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Sodium: 7 mg
- Protein: 8 g
Fresh Mozzarella
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Cholesterol: 54 mg
- Sodium: 16 mg
- Protein: 28 g
Sources: Tofu and Mozzarella from the USDA
You might be surprised at how good a job tofu does here with little to no changes, since you only need to slice and serve!
Ingredients
- silken tofu
- tomatoes
- fresh basil
- salt
- balsamic glaze
How to Assemble
This is a really simple recipe to make, all you need to do is:
- Slice the tomato and tofu.
- Cut the basil into ribbons, or keep whole if preferred.
- Layer tomato and tofu on a plate and top with basil.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze and top with salt and pepper.
- Enjoy!
What is great about this recipe is that it is made with simple accessible ingredients and is equally as simple to assemble! Additionally, it looks great! If you have been missing a caprese salad, then this is going to scratch that itch!
We hope this meal brings some joy to your kitchen, just like it does in ours. Remember, every step you take towards a plant-based lifestyle is something to be proud of. Whether you're vegan, trying to eat more plant-based meals, or just here for a delicious recipe -
thank you for being part of the journey with us!
Ingredients
- 2 large tomatoes
- 1 17oz block silken tofu
- 1 sprig fresh basil
- salt + pepper to taste
- 1 drizzle balsamic glaze (store bought)
Instructions
- Slice the tomatoes and silken tofu.
- Cut the basil leaves into ribbons or leave them whole if you prefer.
- Assemble the ingredients on a large serving plate.
- Top with salt and pepper and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
