This Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad is a refreshing mix of juicy cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella. Drizzle it with olive oil for a zesty touch!
It’s a perfect dish for hot days or as a light snack. I love pairing it with some crusty bread—easy peasy! Plus, it looks fancy without all the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers are the star of this salad. If you can’t find large cucumbers, pick English cucumbers—they’re less watery and have fewer seeds. I like to peel some of the skin for a nice look, but you can leave it on for extra crunch!
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet cherry tomatoes add great flavor. If they’re out of season, use grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes. They’ll still taste good, but cherry tomatoes just look cuter!
Fresh Mozzarella: Bocconcini are perfect here, but if you want to save a little, you could use shredded mozzarella. Just remember, it will change the texture a bit! I prefer the creaminess of fresh mozzarella for this dish.
Fresh Basil: Always opt for fresh basil for that aromatic kick. If you don’t have basil, use fresh parsley or even arugula for a peppery taste. Dried basil won’t give you the same freshness!
How Do I Prepare the Salad So It Stays Fresh?
To keep your Cucumber Caprese Salad fresh, follow these tips:
- Slice cucumbers just before serving to prevent them from getting too watery. If making ahead, keep them whole and slice right before serving.
- Mix the dressing separately (olive oil and balsamic), then drizzle it just before serving to keep everything crisp.
- Serve immediately after tossing to avoid wilting the basil leaves. If you have leftovers, store them in the fridge and consume them within a day for best flavor.
Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained and halved if large
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or glaze (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare, making it a quick and easy option for any occasion. You’ll just need a little time for washing and chopping the fresh ingredients!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Ingredients:
Start by washing the cucumbers and tomatoes carefully under cold water. After they’re clean, slice the cucumbers into thin rounds. For the cherry tomatoes, just cut them in half. Simple and quick!
2. Arrange the Base:
Take a large bowl or a lovely serving platter and layout the cucumber slices evenly. This will serve as the crisp base of your salad.
3. Add the Tomatoes and Mozzarella:
Next, scatter the halved cherry tomatoes over the cucumber slices. Then, add the fresh mozzarella balls on top. This mixture of colors will make your salad look gorgeous!
4. Sprinkle with Basil:
Now, take your torn basil leaves and sprinkle them all over the salad for added flavor and a lovely touch of green. Fresh basil gives an aromatic punch!
5. Drizzle the Dressing:
With everything arranged, drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over the top. If you like a bit of sweetness, add a splash of balsamic vinegar or glaze, but this is totally optional.
6. Season and Finish:
Lightly sprinkle some salt and freshly ground black pepper over the salad. This will enhance all those fabulous flavors and make everything taste even better.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, you can gently toss the salad to combine the ingredients, or you can serve it as is for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy your fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad right away as a delicious side dish or a light appetizer!
Can I Use Other Types of Tomatoes?
Yes! While cherry tomatoes are great for sweetness and bite, you can use grape tomatoes, roma tomatoes, or even diced heirloom tomatoes for a different flavor profile. Just ensure they’re ripe for the best taste!
How Do I Keep the Salad Fresh for Later?
To keep your salad fresh, prepare the components separately and assemble just before serving. Store sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and mozzarella in airtight containers in the fridge. When ready to eat, combine them and add the dressing!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Absolutely! Simply replace the fresh mozzarella with a vegan cheese alternative or omit it entirely for a light and zesty salad that’s still delicious!
What’s the Best Way to Serve This Salad?
This salad is best served immediately after preparation to keep the ingredients crisp. You can also serve it alongside grilled meats, seafood, or as a refreshing starter at summer gatherings!
