This refreshing cucumber Caprese salad combines crunchy cucumbers with juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella. Drizzle it with a bit of olive oil and balsamic for a tasty twist!
It’s super easy to make—like, you just chop and toss! I love serving it on warm days; it’s the perfect cool side dish that makes everyone smile. 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh, crunchy cucumbers are essential for this salad. If you’re in a pinch, you can use English cucumbers, which are less watery and have fewer seeds.
Cherry Tomatoes: They bring sweetness and color. If you can’t find cherry tomatoes, any small tomato variety works well. You can even chop larger tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
Fresh Mozzarella: This adds creaminess. For a lower-fat substitute, try using part-skim mozzarella or even feta if you want a different tangy flavor.
Fresh Basil: It gives the salad a fragrant touch. If fresh basil isn’t available, try using dried basil or even fresh parsley for a different but still herby flavor.
Balsamic Glaze: If you don’t have balsamic glaze, you can reduce balsamic vinegar on the stove until it thickens, or simply use a splash of balsamic vinegar for a lighter version.
How Do I Make Sure the Salad Stays Fresh and Tasty?
The key to keeping your cucumber Caprese salad fresh lies in how you mix and store it. Here are some tips:
- Mix the salad gently. This prevents the mozzarella from getting squished and keeps the salad looking pretty.
- Don’t add salt until right before serving. Salt can draw out moisture from the cucumbers and make the salad watery.
- Serve it chilled; refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes after mixing for the best flavor.
- If you’re making it ahead of time, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve, to maintain the freshness of the ingredients.
Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium cucumbers, sliced into rounds
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained and halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze or reduction
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cucumber Caprese salad will take about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and easy recipe to whip up, making it perfect for a last-minute side dish or a light lunch. Plus, you can chill it for an extra 10-15 minutes before serving if you like it cold!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Veggies:
Start by slicing your cucumbers into rounds, and halving the cherry tomatoes. It’s nice to have everything cut into similar sizes for a beautiful presentation!
2. Combine Ingredients:
In a large salad bowl, place the sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls. This is where all those fresh flavors come together!
3. Add the Basil:
Sprinkle the torn basil leaves over the top of the salad. This will give the dish a lovely aroma and a burst of freshness that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
4. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze evenly across the salad. This not only adds flavor but also helps to blend everything together nicely.
5. Toss Gently:
Now, take a big spoon and gently toss the salad to combine all the ingredients. Be careful not to squish the mozzarella—just a light toss will do!
6. Season and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. You can serve the salad immediately, or if you prefer it a bit colder, chill it in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes before serving. Enjoy your refreshing and colorful salad!
FAQ for Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Tomatoes?
Absolutely! While cherry tomatoes are sweet and ideal for this salad, you can substitute any small tomato variety or even larger ones, just cut them into bite-sized pieces for even distribution.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftover cucumber Caprese salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the cucumbers might release some moisture, making the salad slightly watery, but it will still taste great!
What Can I Substitute for Mozzarella?
If you don’t have fresh mozzarella on hand, you can use part-skim mozzarella, feta, or even goat cheese for a different flavor profile. Just crumble or cut it into chunks to maintain a nice texture.
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Yes, but it’s best to store the dressing separately until you’re ready to serve. You can prepare and cut the veggies ahead of time, then toss everything with the dressing right before serving for the freshest taste!
