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Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad Recipe

Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad Recipe

5.2 from 25 reviews

This Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad is a light and refreshing twist on the classic Caprese. Combining crisp cucumber, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and a tangy herb-infused balsamic dressing, it’s perfect as a side dish or a quick, healthy snack. The addition of red onion adds subtle sharpness, while fresh basil leaves provide aromatic freshness. Easy to prepare and vibrant in flavor, this salad is a great choice for warm-weather meals or anytime you want a burst of garden-fresh taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Dressing

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon dried basil
  • Pinch of salt
  • Pinch of pepper

Salad

  • 1 cucumber, peeled, fork-scored, thinly sliced, then diced
  • 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, quartered
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced or pearl-sized balls
  • ½ large red onion, chopped into small pieces
  • Optional: fresh basil leaves

Instructions

  1. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper until well combined. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
  2. Prepare the cucumber: Peel the washed cucumber, then use a fork to scrape the skin up and down creating texture. Thinly slice and dice the cucumber, placing the pieces in a medium bowl.
  3. Add tomatoes and onion: Quarter the cherry tomatoes and add them to the bowl with the cucumber. Thinly slice and dice the red onion, then add to the bowl. If you prefer, you may omit the onion.
  4. Add mozzarella: Slice the fresh mozzarella into bite-sized pieces or use pearl-sized mozzarella balls. Mix them gently into the bowl with the vegetables to distribute evenly.
  5. Toss with dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and toss carefully to coat all pieces evenly. Let the salad sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to develop before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Notes

  • For best flavor, use fresh mozzarella and ripe cherry tomatoes.
  • If unavailable, fresh oregano and basil can be used instead of dried for a brighter taste.
  • The salad can be served immediately but tastes better after resting for 10-15 minutes.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days.
  • Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
  • To make it vegan, substitute mozzarella with a plant-based cheese alternative.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, Caprese salad, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, healthy salad, Italian salad, vegetarian dish, no-cook recipe