Cucumber Caprese Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cucumber Caprese Salad is a refreshing twist on the classic Italian favorite. Combining crisp cucumber slices with juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, this salad offers a light, vibrant flavor perfect for warm days. Drizzled with balsamic glaze and olive oil, it’s a quick, colorful, and satisfying dish ideal for lunch, picnics, or as a beautiful side at any gathering.

ingredients

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

cucumberscherry or grape tomatoessmall mozzarella balls (bocconcini)fresh basil leavesolive oilbalsamic glaze or reductionsea saltfreshly ground black pepper

directions

Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons, depending on their size.

Halve the cherry tomatoes.

In a large bowl, combine the cucumber slices, halved tomatoes, and mozzarella balls.

Tear the basil leaves into smaller pieces and sprinkle over the salad.

Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.

Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Toss gently to combine and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesTotal time: 10 minutes

Variations

Use heirloom tomatoes for a colorful, rustic presentation.

Add avocado slices for extra creaminess.

Sprinkle with crushed red pepper for a spicy kick.

Use a mix of yellow and red tomatoes for more color contrast.

Substitute mozzarella with burrata for a richer texture.

storage/reheating

*Cucumber Caprese Salad is best enjoyed fresh.*If needed, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Drain any excess liquid before serving again. Do not freeze.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It’s best to assemble it just before serving to maintain freshness, but you can prepare the ingredients a few hours in advance.

What type of cucumber works best?

English or Persian cucumbers are ideal because of their thin skin and fewer seeds.

Can I use regular mozzarella instead of balls?

Yes, just cut it into bite-sized cubes.

Is there a substitute for balsamic glaze?

You can reduce balsamic vinegar with a bit of sugar on the stove to create your own glaze.

Do I need to peel the cucumbers?

No, especially if using English or Persian cucumbers. If using regular cucumbers, you may want to peel them if the skin is thick or waxy.

Can I add protein to make it a full meal?

Yes, grilled chicken or shrimp pairs well with this salad.

Conclusion

Cucumber Caprese Salad brings a fresh and modern twist to a beloved classic, making it perfect for any occasion. Light, colorful, and full of flavor, it’s a simple way to enjoy summer produce at its best. Give it a try and bring a taste of Italy to your table with minimal effort!

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