This Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad is fresh and crunchy! With juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and crisp cucumbers, it’s a perfect dish for hot days.
It’s so quick to make that I sometimes whip it up for a snack! Just chop the veggies, toss them together, and drizzle with some olive oil. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Large cucumbers provide a refreshing crunch. I recommend using English cucumbers for fewer seeds and a milder flavor. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers work fine too.
Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems bring sweetness to the salad. If they’re not in season, diced regular tomatoes or grape tomatoes can be a good substitute.
Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella balls, or bocconcini, add creaminess. If you’re aiming for lower fat, consider using part-skim mozzarella or fresh ricotta for a different texture.
Fresh Basil: It brings a bright herbal note. If fresh basil isn’t available, you can use fresh parsley or even a pinch of dried Italian herbs, but fresh makes a big difference!
How Can I Ensure My Salad Stays Fresh and Crisp?
To keep your cucumber Caprese Salad crisp, avoid adding salt until you’re ready to serve. Salt draws out moisture, which might make your salad watery. Here’s how to prepare it effectively:
- Slice cucumbers right before serving to maintain crunch.
- Mix all ingredients gently to avoid bruising the tomatoes and mozzarella.
- If you need to prepare ahead, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.
By following these tips, your salad will remain fresh and delightful for everyone to enjoy!
How to Make Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers, sliced into rounds or half-moons
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or glaze (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and easy recipe, perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for gatherings. Plus, it doesn’t require any cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by washing your cucumbers and cherry tomatoes thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers into rounds or half-moons based on your preference. Halve the cherry tomatoes for a burst of flavor in every bite!
2. Slice the Mozzarella:
Take your fresh mozzarella balls and slice them in half as well. This will give you delightful little bites to enjoy along with the other ingredients.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella. Be sure to give yourself enough room in the bowl to toss everything together later!
4. Add Fresh Basil:
Add the torn fresh basil leaves to the bowl. The basil is key in adding a lovely herbaceous flavor to your salad—don’t skip it!
5. Drizzle with Dressing:
Now, it’s time to add the finishing touch! Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar (if you’re using it) over the salad. These will elevate the flavors beautifully.
6. Toss and Season:
Gently toss all the ingredients together to ensure they’re well mixed. Be careful not to smash the tomatoes or mozzarella. Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste—this will help enhance the flavors!
7. Serve or Chill:
Your salad is ready to enjoy! You can serve it immediately or let it chill in the fridge for a few minutes to meld the flavors together. Either way, it’s delicious!
Enjoy your light and tasty Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad! It’s perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you can’t find fresh mozzarella, you can use crumbled feta or diced mozzarella cheese. Each will give a slightly different taste but will still complement the salad nicely.
How Can I Add More Flavor to My Salad?
To amp up the flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat, or even some capers for a briny kick. Fresh herbs like oregano or parsley can also enhance the taste!
How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Your Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just note that the cucumbers may lose some crunch over time.
Can I Customize the Veggies in This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, arugula, or even avocado for extra creaminess. Just keep in mind that the salad’s classic flavor may change slightly based on your additions!
