Juicy Cucumber Caprese Salad mixes cool cucumber, sweet cherry tomatoes, soft mozzarella, and fresh basil. You toss them with olive oil and a splash of balsamic. The salad is bright, crisp, and ready in minutes. It works as a side or a light lunch. Try it when you want something simple and fresh.
Why make this recipe
This salad is fresh, light, and very easy. It uses simple ingredients you can find at any store. It tastes bright and clean on a hot day. Pair it with a warm main or a cold pasta for a full meal, like an easy pasta side that keeps the plate balanced.
How to make Juicy Cucumber Caprese Salad
Make this salad in three easy steps: slice the vegetables, add cheese and basil, then dress and toss. Use firm cucumbers so the salad stays crunchy. Taste and add a little more salt or vinegar if you want stronger flavor.
Ingredients :
- 2 large cucumbers
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz Mozzarella cheese, cubed or ball
- Fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions :
- Slice the cucumbers into rounds or half-moons.
- In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella.
- Tear fresh basil leaves and add them to the bowl.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Gently toss to combine all the ingredients.
- Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for a refreshing taste.
How to serve Juicy Cucumber Caprese Salad
Serve this salad cold or at room temperature. Put it in a wide bowl so the colors show. Add it beside grilled chicken or fish for a light meal. It also goes well with a sweet slaw like carrot raisin salad for a bright plate.
How to store Juicy Cucumber Caprese Salad
Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps best for 1 day. After that the cucumbers may get soft. If you want to make ahead, keep the dressing separate and toss before serving.
Tips to make Juicy Cucumber Caprese Salad
- Use fresh basil for the best aroma.
- Cut the mozzarella into bite-size pieces so every fork gets cheese.
- Pat the cucumbers dry if they are very wet. This keeps the dressing from thinning.
- Taste before you add salt. The cheese can be salty already.
Variation
- Add a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness.
- Use heirloom tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes for more color.
- Replace balsamic with red wine vinegar for a sharper taste.
- Add sliced red onion or a few olives for more flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other cheese?
A: Yes. Burrata or fresh goat cheese work well and stay soft.
Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Yes. Use a vegan mozzarella or skip the cheese and add avocado.
Q: How long can I leave it out?
A: Do not leave it out more than 2 hours. Keep it cold to stay fresh.
Q: Can I add herbs other than basil?
A: Yes. Parsley or mint can add a fresh twist.
Conclusion
This Juicy Cucumber Caprese Salad is quick, fresh, and full of bright flavors. For another simple cucumber caprese idea, see a Cucumber Caprese Salad from Lemon Tree Dwelling, and for a different take with step-by-step notes check The Kitchn’s Cucumber Caprese Salad.
Juicy Cucumber Caprese Salad
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 large large cucumbers Use firm cucumbers for crunch.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz Mozzarella cheese, cubed or ball Cut into bite-size pieces.
- Fresh basil leaves Use fresh for better aroma.
Dressing
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar Can be replaced with red wine vinegar.
- to taste Salt and pepper Taste before adding salt.
Instructions
Preparation
- Slice the cucumbers into rounds or half-moons.
- In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella.
- Tear fresh basil leaves and add them to the bowl.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Gently toss to combine all the ingredients.
Serving
- Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for a refreshing taste.
- Serve this salad cold or at room temperature, ideally in a wide bowl.
- Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a light meal.