Cucumber Caprese Salad
This cucumber Caprese salad is a fresh, vibrant twist on the classic Italian favorite, combining crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. It comes together in just 10 minutes and is perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or a quick, healthy side dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 2 medium cucumbers (about 14 oz / 400g), preferably English or Persian, sliced
- 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes (about 10 oz / 300g), halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (about 5 oz / 150g, ciliegine or bocconcini), drained and halved if large
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed and torn
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (or flaky sea salt for finishing)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: thinly sliced red onion
- Optional: a squeeze of lemon juice
- Optional: 1 avocado, cubed
- Optional: crusty bread for serving
Instructions
- Rinse cucumbers, tomatoes, and basil leaves under cold water. Pat dry thoroughly.
- Slice cucumbers into 1/4-inch rounds or half-moons. If using regular cucumbers, peel and deseed before slicing.
- Halve the cherry or grape tomatoes. If using larger tomatoes, dice into bite-sized pieces.
- Drain mozzarella balls and halve if large. Pat dry with a paper towel.
- Tear basil leaves by hand to avoid bruising.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, halved tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
- Sprinkle with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze. Toss gently to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasoning or add more glaze as needed.
- Transfer to a serving platter or shallow bowl. Garnish with extra basil leaves and serve immediately.
- If making ahead, wait to add basil and dressing until just before serving.
Notes
For best results, use the freshest ingredients possible and dry all produce thoroughly to prevent a watery salad. Salt and dress the salad just before serving to keep everything crisp. Customize with seasonal add-ins like peaches, avocado, or different herbs. For a dairy-free version, use vegan mozzarella or marinated tofu.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 13
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 7
Keywords: cucumber caprese salad, summer salad, Italian salad, fresh mozzarella, tomato cucumber salad, gluten-free, vegetarian, easy salad, picnic side, potluck salad