This refreshing cucumber Caprese salad is like summer on a plate! With juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and crunchy cucumbers, it’s a perfect side dish or snack.
The best part? It takes just minutes to whip up! I love tossing it together for a quick lunch. It’s light, delicious, and a great way to use fresh veggies.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: I prefer using English cucumbers for their thin skin and fewer seeds. If they’re not available, regular cucumbers work just as well. You can also try using mini cucumbers for bite-sized pieces!
Cherry Tomatoes: While cherry tomatoes add sweetness, feel free to substitute grape tomatoes for a similar flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use diced larger tomatoes, but make sure to drain excess juice.
Fresh Mozzarella: Bocconcini or ciliegine is great, but if you can’t find them, cubed mozzarella is just fine. For a dairy-free option, consider using avocado for creaminess.
Basil: Fresh basil is best for its aromatic flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use a tablespoon of dried basil, but fresh really elevates this salad. Parsley or arugula could be nice alternatives too.
Balsamic Glaze: If you don’t have balsamic glaze, regular balsamic vinegar works well too. Just drizzle it lightly, or mix it with a bit of honey to sweeten it up!
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Stays Fresh?
To keep your salad fresh, prep ingredients carefully. Slice cucumbers just before serving to maintain their crunch. Here are some tips:
- Keep sliced cucumbers in water for a few minutes to crisp them up if they’re starting to wilt.
- Combine ingredients just before you plan to eat, especially if using tomatoes, as they can release juices.
- If you plan to make this ahead, keep the dressing separate until just before serving.
This way, you get a fresh salad every time!
Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), drained
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn
Dressing:
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze or balsamic vinegar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s super quick and easy, so you can enjoy this refreshing dish in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Begin by washing and thinly slicing the cucumbers. Place the slices into a large salad bowl—this will be the base of your salad, so make sure you have enough space!
2. Add the Tomatoes:
Next, halve the cherry tomatoes and gently toss them into the bowl with the cucumbers. Their bright color and sweet flavor will make the salad even better!
3. Include the Mozzarella:
Now, add the fresh mozzarella balls to your salad. If they’re large, you can halve them as well, but the small ones work perfectly as they are.
4. Add the Basil:
Tear or chop the fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them over the mixture. This will add an aromatic flavor that complements the other ingredients wonderfully.
5. Drizzle the Dressing:
In this step, drizzle the olive oil and balsamic glaze (or vinegar) over the salad. This adds a nice touch of flavor and balance.
6. Season to Taste:
Finally, sprinkle a bit of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Seasoning really brightens up all the flavors.
7. Toss and Serve:
Gently toss all the ingredients together until completely combined. You want everything nicely mixed without squishing the ingredients.
8. Chill or Serve Immediately:
You can serve the salad right away or let it chill in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully. Enjoy your refreshing cucumber Caprese salad!
FAQ About Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Tomatoes?
Absolutely! While cherry tomatoes are ideal for their sweetness and bite, you can substitute grape tomatoes or even diced medium-sized tomatoes. Just be sure to remove excess juice for the best texture!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To keep your salad fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last up to 2 days, but for the best taste, enjoy it within a day. Avoid dressing it until you’re ready to eat!
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
You can prepare the vegetables and mozzarella ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Just combine everything and add the dressing right before serving for the freshest flavor!
What Are Some Good Substitutions for Mozzarella?
If you’re looking for alternatives, try using feta cheese for a tangy kick, or avocado slices for a creamy, dairy-free option. These will change the flavor profile but still complement the salad nicely!
