Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is the perfect blend of fresh, vibrant ingredients. The cucumber adds a crunchy, hydrating element while the mozzarella brings a soft, creamy texture. Cherry tomatoes and red onions add a burst of flavor, while the homemade marinade ties everything together with a tangy and savory kick. It’s a healthy and satisfying salad that can be served as a side dish or even as a light meal. Plus, it’s quick to make, so you can enjoy this dish in no time!

Ingredients

• Marinade:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano

  • 1 tablespoon dried basil

  • Pinch salt

  • Pinch pepper

• Salad:

  • 1 cucumber, peeled, fork-scored, thinly sliced, and diced

  • 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, cut into quarters

  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella

  • ½ large red onion, chopped into small pieces

  • Optional: fresh basil leaves

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, dried basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined. Set aside to let the flavors meld together.

2. Peel the cucumber and use a fork to scrape the skin up and down a few times to create a textured surface. Slice the cucumber thinly and dice it into small pieces. Place the diced cucumber into a medium-sized bowl.

3. Quarter the cherry tomatoes and add them to the bowl with the cucumber.

4. Thinly slice and dice the red onion and add it to the bowl. If you prefer not to use onion, you can omit it.

5. Slice the mozzarella into bite-sized pieces or use pearl-sized mozzarella balls. Add them to the bowl with the cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion.

6. Pour the prepared marinade over the salad ingredients and toss everything together until evenly coated.

7. Allow the salad to sit for about 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: For a more filling meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.

• Add nuts: Toasted pine nuts or walnuts can add a nice crunch and nutty flavor to the salad.

• Use different cheese: You can substitute mozzarella with feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.

• Vegan Version: Skip the cheese entirely or use a vegan mozzarella substitute.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The texture of the cucumber may soften slightly over time, but the flavors will still be delicious.

• Reheating: This salad is meant to be served cold, so there is no need to reheat it. Simply store it in the fridge and enjoy it as a chilled side dish.

FAQs

1. How long can I store this salad?

You can store this salad in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it is best enjoyed fresh for the best texture.

2. Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Yes, you can add bell peppers, olives, or even avocado to this salad for extra flavor and variety.

3. Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

4. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad and marinade ahead of time, but it is best to assemble and add the marinade just before serving to maintain the freshness of the ingredients.

5. Can I substitute balsamic vinegar with another type of vinegar?

Yes, you can substitute balsamic vinegar with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a slightly different flavor profile.

6. What kind of mozzarella should I use for this recipe?

Fresh mozzarella is ideal for this salad. You can use either mozzarella balls (bocconcini) or slice a larger piece of mozzarella.

7. How do I make this salad more filling?

You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even roasted chickpeas to make the salad more filling and turn it into a complete meal.

8. Can I omit the red onion if I don’t like it?

Yes, you can skip the red onion entirely if you prefer. The salad will still taste great without it.

9. Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, simply omit the mozzarella or use a vegan mozzarella alternative for a dairy-free version.

10. Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble it just before serving for meal prep.

Conclusion

This Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad is a simple, refreshing dish that is perfect for any occasion. The crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella create a perfect balance of textures and flavors, while the tangy balsamic marinade brings it all together. Whether served as a side or as a light main dish, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy it as a quick and healthy meal option for hot days or any time you crave a fresh, vibrant salad.