Cucumber Caprese Salad – A Refreshing Summer Side

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This Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad is a refreshing twist on the Italian classic, combining juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil with the cool crunch of cucumber. It’s light, vibrant, and perfect for warm-weather meals—ready in just 10 minutes with no cooking required.

Whether served as a summer side, a potluck favorite, or a quick weekday lunch, this salad brings garden-fresh flavor and Mediterranean charm to your table with minimal effort.

Ingredients Overview

Each ingredient in this salad works together to create a perfect balance of texture and flavor—fresh, crisp, creamy, and tangy.

Cucumber

  • Adds crunch and a hydrating, cooling element.

  • Use English cucumber or Persian cucumbers for fewer seeds and thin skin.

  • Slice into half-moons or rounds for even bites.

Cherry or Grape Tomatoes

  • Juicy and sweet, they add brightness and color.

  • Halve them for easier eating and better flavor distribution.

Fresh Mozzarella

  • Mozzarella pearls (bocconcini) are perfect, but you can cube larger pieces if needed.

  • Their soft, creamy texture balances the crisp veggies.

Fresh Basil

  • Adds a signature Caprese flavor—herbaceous and aromatic.

  • Tear leaves by hand to prevent bruising.

Olive Oil

  • A drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil ties everything together.

  • Adds richness and enhances the natural flavors.

Balsamic Glaze (Optional)

  • A sweet, tangy finish that adds depth and contrast.

  • Optional but highly recommended.

Salt & Pepper

  • Just a pinch of sea salt and cracked black pepper to bring out all the natural flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This no-cook salad is simple to prepare, and the key is in the freshness of the ingredients.

1. Slice the Vegetables

  • Slice 1 large English cucumber into half-moons (or 2–3 Persian cucumbers).

  • Halve 1.5 cups cherry or grape tomatoes.

2. Add the Mozzarella

  • Use 1 cup mozzarella pearls or cube 8 oz of fresh mozzarella.

  • Add to the bowl with cucumbers and tomatoes.

3. Add Fresh Basil

  • Tear or thinly slice ¼ cup fresh basil leaves.

  • Add directly to the salad just before serving.

4. Dress the Salad

Drizzle over:

  • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

  • Optional: 1 tbsp balsamic glaze

Sprinkle with:

  • ¼ tsp sea salt

  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

5. Toss and Serve

  • Gently toss all ingredients together until coated.

  • Serve immediately, or chill for 10–15 minutes to let flavors meld.

Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

Tips for Freshest Flavor

  • Use ripe, firm tomatoes and fresh basil—quality matters in simple salads.

  • If preparing ahead, add the basil and dressing just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.

Flavor Variations

  • Add avocado for a creamy texture and healthy fat.

  • Top with pine nuts or toasted almonds for crunch.

  • Sprinkle with chili flakes or add thin-sliced red onion for extra kick.

  • Use burrata instead of mozzarella for a more luxurious version.

Substitutions

  • Vegan option: Swap mozzarella for vegan mozzarella or cubes of marinated tofu.

  • Herb twist: Try fresh mint or parsley for a different flavor profile.

  • No balsamic glaze? Use a splash of regular balsamic vinegar or lemon juice.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

This salad is a versatile, all-occasion dish that fits anywhere from casual lunches to elegant dinners.

Perfect For:

  • Summer BBQs and picnics

  • Potlucks and garden parties

  • Weeknight dinners

  • Light lunches with crusty bread

  • Appetizer boards or antipasti platters

Pair With:

  • Grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon

  • Pasta dishes like pesto or lemon spaghetti

  • Frittatas or quiche for brunch

  • Toasted sourdough or focaccia

It’s naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and packed with flavor.

Nutritional & Health Notes

This salad is:

  • High in vitamin C and antioxidants from tomatoes and basil

  • Hydrating and low in calories from cucumbers

  • A good source of calcium and protein from mozzarella

  • Naturally gluten-free and low-carb

Add healthy fats with avocado or nuts for extra satiety and nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but for best results, store the veggies separately from the basil and dressing. Assemble and toss just before serving to preserve freshness.

2. What’s the best type of cucumber to use?

English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers are best—thin-skinned, mild, and low in seeds. Avoid thick-skinned slicing cucumbers unless peeled and deseeded.

3. How long does it keep in the fridge?

This salad is best fresh, but leftovers can be stored for up to 2 days. Basil may wilt and the mozzarella may firm up, so give it a quick stir before serving.

4. Can I use a different cheese?

Yes! Try burrata, feta, or goat cheese for a flavor twist. Note that feta will make the salad saltier and tangier.

5. Is this recipe vegan?

Not by default, but you can easily make it vegan by using vegan mozzarella or skipping the cheese entirely and adding extra veggies like avocado or olives.

6. Can I use dried basil?

Fresh basil is strongly recommended for the best flavor. Dried basil won’t offer the same vibrant, aromatic quality. If needed, use parsley or mint as a fresh alternative.

7. What’s a good substitute for balsamic glaze?

Use a drizzle of balsamic vinegar, red wine vinegar, or even lemon juice to brighten the flavors. You can also make a quick glaze by reducing balsamic vinegar over heat.

Tasty Recipes Card

Description:
A fresh and flavorful twist on Caprese salad, featuring juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, mozzarella, and basil in a light olive oil dressing—ready in just 10 minutes.

Ingredients:

  • 1 large English cucumber, sliced into half-moons

  • 1.5 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1 cup mozzarella pearls (or 8 oz fresh mozzarella, cubed)

  • ¼ cup fresh basil, torn or thinly sliced

  • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

  • 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (optional)

  • ¼ tsp sea salt

  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Combine cucumber, tomatoes, and mozzarella in a large bowl.

  2. Add torn basil.

  3. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.

  4. Season with salt and pepper.

  5. Toss gently and serve immediately or chill briefly.

Notes:

  • Add avocado or nuts for variation.

  • Use fresh herbs only; dried basil is not recommended.

  • Store undressed for up to 2 days.

Details:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

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