Empty Shelves Caprese

Ingredients

• 2 large tomatoes
• 2 balls mozzarella
• 4 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp coarse sea salt
• freshly ground black pepper
• a few basil leaves (optional)

Method

1. Cut the tomatoes into thick half-slices.
2. Cut the mozzarella into half-slices, as thick as the tomato.
3. Take a long platter or cutting board.
4. Alternately arrange a half-slice of tomato and mozzarella in a straight row, leaving large empty gaps (at least 5 cm) between each.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the tomato and mozzarella.
6. Sprinkle with sea salt and some black pepper.
7. Garnish sparingly with a few basil leaves, leaving empty spots.

Serving notes

• Serve on a long, narrow board for the empty shelf effect.
• Place the platter across the table so the gaps are clearly visible.