Description
Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad is a cool and refreshing Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all brought together with high-quality olive oil and a sweet balsamic glaze. Perfect for a light appetizer or side, this easy no-cook salad offers vibrant flavors and a satisfying texture in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 2 large Cucumbers (English or Persian varieties recommended)
- 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (halved)
- 8 ounces Fresh Mozzarella Balls (Bocconcini or ciliegine, drained)
- 1 cup Fresh Basil Leaves (torn)
Dressing and Seasoning
- 3 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil (high-quality recommended)
- 2 tablespoons Balsamic Glaze (can substitute with lemon juice)
- Salt, to taste
- Black Pepper (freshly ground, to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds. Halve the cherry tomatoes and drain the fresh mozzarella balls carefully to remove excess moisture.
- Combine main ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently mix sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, and drained mozzarella balls using a spatula to avoid breaking the mozzarella pieces.
- Toss the salad: Carefully toss the ingredients together ensuring even distribution, while keeping the mozzarella intact.
- Add basil and olive oil: Incorporate the torn fresh basil leaves into the salad and drizzle the high-quality extra virgin olive oil evenly over the mixture.
- Season the salad: Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over the salad, then gently mix again to combine all flavors.
- Plate and garnish: Transfer the salad onto a serving plate and finish with a beautiful drizzle of balsamic glaze just before serving for a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Chill before serving (optional): For an extra-refreshing taste, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes to meld flavors and enhance crispness.
Notes
- Use English or Persian cucumbers for thinner skins and fewer seeds, enhancing texture.
- Fresh mozzarella balls can be replaced with sliced mozzarella if preferred, but handle gently to prevent breakage.
- Balsamic glaze adds sweetness and depth, but lemon juice can be used as a refreshing substitute.
- For a vegan version, substitute mozzarella with plant-based cheese alternatives.
- Keep salad chilled until serving to maintain freshness and crunch.
