This Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad is a refreshing summer treat! It blends juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil for a colorful dish that’s full of flavor.
Perfect for hot days, this salad comes together in a snap. Just toss the ingredients with a drizzle of olive oil and some balsamic vinegar—easy peasy! I love serving it as a light lunch or a tasty side at BBQs.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh, crunchy cucumbers are the star here. I recommend using English cucumbers for their thinner skin and fewer seeds. If they’re not available, regular cucumbers work too. You could even try zucchini for a twist!
Tomatoes: Cherry or grape tomatoes are ideal due to their sweetness. If you can’t find them, use diced larger tomatoes, but try to deseed them a bit for less moisture. I like to mix colors for a vibrant presentation.
Fresh Mozzarella: The soft, creamy mozzarella balls add great texture. If you can’t find them, any ball mozzarella works. For a dairy-free option, you could use vegan mozzarella or even avocado slices.
Basil: Fresh basil gives that classic Caprese flavor. If fresh isn’t on hand, you can use dried basil, though the taste won’t be the same. I often add some fresh herbs like parsley or oregano for extra flavor if I have them around.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad is Packed with Flavor?
To build flavor in your salad, the key is in the dressing and mixing technique. Start by whisking the olive oil and balsamic vinegar together separately before adding them to the salad. This way, you get a good mix right from the start.
- Combine the ingredients gently to keep everything intact—especially the mozzarella!
- Let the salad rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps all the flavors meld together beautifully.
A quick tip: If you want even more flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or some red pepper flakes for a bit of a kick!
Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad Recipe for Summer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or glaze
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You can serve it right away or let it chill in the fridge for up to 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together nicely. It’s quick, easy, and so delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by slicing your cucumbers thinly. If you prefer, you can peel them for a smoother texture, but this is up to your personal taste! Next, wash your cherry or grape tomatoes and slice them in half. Rinse the fresh basil leaves, tearing them gently into smaller pieces so they can mix well into the salad.
2. Combine the Main Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the sliced cucumbers, halved tomatoes, and mozzarella balls. The combination of these fresh ingredients is what makes this salad deliciously colorful!
3. Add Flavor:
Now, gently toss in the torn basil leaves. Drizzle the extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar over your salad. This adds a lovely zing! Season it with a sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
4. Mix and Serve:
Carefully toss everything together with a spatula or wooden spoon. Make sure all the delicious ingredients are well-coated with the dressing. Once combined, you can either serve it right away or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to an hour. This time will deepen the flavors really nicely!
Enjoy this bright, crisp, and easy-to-make cucumber Caprese salad perfect for summer gatherings! It’s delicious on its own or as a refreshing side dish to your meal.
FAQ for Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Tomatoes?
Absolutely! While cherry or grape tomatoes are ideal due to their sweetness, you can substitute larger tomatoes by dicing them. Just be sure to remove some seeds to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just keep in mind that the cucumbers may release water over time, so the texture may change slightly. You can always refresh it with a little extra olive oil and seasoning before serving.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the salad close to serving time to maintain the freshness of the vegetables. If you need to prepare it in advance, store the ingredients separately and combine them just before serving.
What Other Ingredients Can I Add?
Feel free to customize your salad! You can add sliced red onions for a bit of bite, or include some avocado for creaminess. For a bit of tang, consider crumbling feta cheese on top. Get creative with herbs too—fresh parsley or oregano can add a nice twist!
