To begin, gather all your ingredients and ensure they are at room temperature. Tomatoes and mozzarella both release their full flavours when not chilled, so allow them to sit out for about 30 minutes before preparing the salad. This enhances the taste and texture of the dish.

Carefully wash the tomatoes and pat them dry with a clean towel. Slice the tomatoes into thick, even slices—around 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) thick. Try to keep the slices uniform for a balanced presentation. Set the slices aside on a plate, making sure to capture any juices that may escape.

Next, slice the fresh mozzarella into similar 1/4 inch slices. If you are using buffalo mozzarella, it may be slightly more delicate and softer, so handle it gently to prevent it from tearing. Place the slices on a separate plate, ready for layering.

Arrange the salad by alternating slices of tomato and mozzarella on a large serving platter or individual plates. Start with a tomato slice, followed by a mozzarella slice, and repeat this pattern. Overlap them slightly for a visually appealing presentation.

Once the tomatoes and mozzarella are arranged, tear or gently place the fresh basil leaves on top of and between the layers. Basil not only adds a burst of fresh flavour but also enhances the dish visually with its vibrant green colour. Use whole leaves or tear larger ones in half to distribute the flavour more evenly.

Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil evenly over the entire salad. Use a high-quality olive oil, as this is one of the essential flavour components. The oil should lightly coat the tomatoes and mozzarella, adding a rich, fruity note to each bite.

Season the salad with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Be mindful of the amount of salt, especially if the mozzarella is already on the salty side. Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle kick that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes and the creaminess of the cheese.

For a finishing touch, you can drizzle a small amount of balsamic reduction over the salad, though this is optional. While not part of the classic Caprese Salad, the sweetness of balsamic reduction can complement the dish nicely. Serve the salad immediately, paired with crusty bread or as a light appetizer.