This Refreshing Cucumber Caprese Salad is a light, vibrant, and flavorful dish perfect for summer. Cool cucumber, creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil come together for a fresh salad that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Drizzled with a simple balsamic-olive oil dressing, it’s perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or a light meal on a warm day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy—ready in just 15 minutes
- Light, fresh, and perfect for summer
- Colorful and visually appealing on any table
- Bursting with fresh Mediterranean flavors
- Easily customizable with additional veggies or cheese
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced — Adds a crisp, refreshing base
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced — Creamy and mild flavor
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved — Sweet, juicy bursts of flavor
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves — Fragrant and herbaceous
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze — Sweet and tangy finish
- 2 tablespoons olive oil — Smooth, rich flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon salt — Enhances all the ingredients
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper — Adds subtle warmth
How to Make Refreshing Cucumber Caprese Salad
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Wash and thinly slice the cucumber. Slice the mozzarella cheese and halve the cherry or grape tomatoes.
2. Arrange the Salad
On a large platter or individual plates, alternate slices of cucumber and mozzarella. Tuck the halved tomatoes between the cucumber and mozzarella slices.
3. Add Fresh Basil
Scatter the fresh basil leaves evenly over the salad.
4. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic glaze and olive oil.
5. Dress and Season
Drizzle the balsamic-olive oil mixture over the salad. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6. Serve
Serve immediately for the freshest flavor, or chill briefly before serving.
Tips for Success
- Use the freshest mozzarella and tomatoes for the best flavor
- Slice cucumbers evenly for a neat presentation
- Drizzle the dressing just before serving to keep ingredients fresh
- Add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for extra crunch
Equipment Needed
- Large platter or individual plates
- Small bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Whisk
Recipe Variations
- Burrata Caprese: Replace mozzarella with burrata for creamier texture
- Add Veggies: Include bell peppers, red onion, or avocado for extra color and flavor
- Herb Twist: Add fresh oregano or thyme along with basil
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or walnuts
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a side with grilled chicken or fish
- Pair with crusty bread or crostini
- Great as an appetizer at summer parties or picnics
- Add to a Mediterranean platter with olives and roasted vegetables
FAQs
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, but dress it just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp.
Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry or grape?
Yes, but slice them small so the salad remains visually balanced.
Can I make it vegan?
Yes, substitute mozzarella with vegan cheese or tofu.
Can I store leftovers?
Yes, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
Can I add other herbs?
Absolutely, fresh oregano or parsley works well alongside basil.
Refreshing Cucumber Caprese Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A light and flavorful salad perfect for summer, combining the coolness of cucumber with creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil.
Ingredients
- 1 Large Cucumber, thinly sliced
- 8 ounces Fresh Mozzarella, sliced
- 1 pint Cherry or Grape Tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup Fresh Basil Leaves
- 2 tablespoons Balsamic Glaze
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper, or to taste
Instructions
- Wash and thinly slice the cucumber. Slice the mozzarella cheese.
- Halve the cherry or grape tomatoes.
- Arrange alternating slices of cucumber and mozzarella on a large platter or individual plates.
- Tuck the halved tomatoes between the cucumber and mozzarella.
- Scatter fresh basil leaves over the salad.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic glaze and olive oil.
- Drizzle the balsamic-olive oil mixture over the salad.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately or chill for later.
Notes
- For richer flavor, use burrata cheese instead of mozzarella.
- Optional: add bell peppers or red onion for extra color and texture.
- Consider sprinkling toasted pine nuts for added crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Salad, Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Final Thoughts
This Refreshing Cucumber Caprese Salad is a light, vibrant, and versatile dish that brings Mediterranean flavors to your table. Perfect for summer gatherings, quick lunches, or a healthy side, it’s simple to make yet impressive in presentation and taste. Experiment with add-ins like burrata, nuts, or colorful veggies, and enjoy a fresh, flavorful salad that everyone will love.
