Mozzarella, tomato and basil, the classic “Caprese salad” (named after the Italian island of Capri) is a popular first course.

For a change, substitute goat cheese. Its creaminess pairs beautifully with the sweet acidity of tomatoes.

For a beautiful dish:

 
Variations include serving the sliced goat cheese with a “salad” of red and yellow tomato wedges (or sliced cherry tomatoes) in a red wine vinaigrette.

Or, you can stack the cheese, basil and sliced tomatoes in a “napoleon.” 

When tomatoes aren’t in season, substitute roasted red peppers.

Goat Cheese Caprese Salad. The goat cheese substitutes for mozzarella in this recipe from Mario Batali (photo courtesy Good Housekeeping).