Introduction
Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad is a light, vibrant, and irresistibly refreshing dish that takes the classic Italian Caprese and gives it a crisp, summery twist. By pairing crisp cucumber with creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a bright balsamic dressing, this salad feels like sunshine on a plate. Delightfully simple yet packed with fresh flavors and lovely textures, it’s perfect as a side dish, a light lunch, or even as part of a picnic or potluck spread. Easy to prepare and beautiful to serve, this salad celebrates fresh ingredients at their best.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bright, fresh flavors with juicy tomatoes and crisp cucumber
- Creamy mozzarella balances acidity beautifully
- Quick to assemble — no cooking required
- Perfect for summer meals, BBQs, or easy weeknight sides
- Versatile and customizable to your taste
Ingredients
- 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 300 g cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 250 g fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), halved
- 15 g fresh basil leaves, torn
- 30 ml extra virgin olive oil
- 15 ml balsamic vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
How to Make Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad
- Place the thinly sliced cucumbers in a large salad bowl
- Add the halved cherry or grape tomatoes to the bowl
- Add the halved fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- Tear fresh basil leaves and scatter them over the vegetables and cheese
- In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, sea salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes
- Pour the dressing evenly over the cucumber, tomatoes, and mozzarella
- Gently toss the salad with salad spoons or tongs to combine all ingredients and coat them in the dressing
- Serve immediately or chill briefly for enhanced flavor
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Course: Salad / Side Dish
Flavor Profile Breakdown
This salad combines bright, tangy tomatoes with cool, crisp cucumbers and creamy mozzarella. Fresh basil adds herbaceous fragrance, while the balsamic-olive oil dressing ties everything together with a balanced sweet-tart finish. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds optional warmth.
Pro Tips for Best Results
Use the freshest, ripest tomatoes you can find — they make a big difference. Slice cucumbers uniformly for even texture in every bite. Don’t overdress — start with a light drizzle and add more to taste. Fresh basil should be added just before serving to retain aroma and color.
Variations & Substitutions
Add ripe avocado for extra creaminess. Swap balsamic vinegar for lemon juice and a touch of honey for a brighter dressing. Include Kalamata olives for a salty Mediterranean touch. Use vegan mozzarella for a dairy-free version.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Adding dressing too early — salad becomes watery. Using underripe tomatoes — lackluster flavor. Cutting cucumbers unevenly — inconsistent texture. Overmixing basil — bruises and loses fragrance.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad with grilled chicken, fish, or alongside crusty bread. It also pairs beautifully with pesto pasta or chilled white wine for a refreshing summer meal.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 1 day. Add additional balsamic or olive oil just before serving if it dries out. This salad is best served cold.
Nutrition Information (Approximate)
Calories: 160 kcal
Protein: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 8 g
Fat: 12 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 280 mg
Ingredients
Method
- Place the thinly sliced cucumbers in a large salad bowl
- Add the halved cherry or grape tomatoes to the bowl
- Add the halved fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- Tear fresh basil leaves and scatter them over the vegetables and cheese
- In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, sea salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes
- Pour the dressing evenly over the cucumber, tomatoes, and mozzarella
- Gently toss the salad with salad spoons or tongs to combine all ingredients and coat them in the dressing
- Serve immediately or chill briefly for enhanced flavor
Notes
Carbohydrates: 8 g
Fat: 12 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 280 mg
Final Thoughts
Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad is a stunning blend of flavors and textures that feels fresh, light, and utterly delicious. Whether served at a backyard barbecue, a casual lunch, or a weeknight dinner side, this salad proves that simple ingredients can create something truly special.
FAQs
What cucumber type works best for this salad?
English cucumbers or seedless cucumbers are ideal because they have thin skins and fewer seeds.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prep the vegetables ahead, but toss them with dressing right before serving to avoid excess liquid.
Is balsamic vinegar necessary?
Balsamic adds sweetness and tang, but lemon juice can be used for a brighter, citrusy dressing.
How do I keep the salad fresh longer?
Store in an airtight container and add dressing just before serving to prevent sogginess.
Can I add other ingredients?
Yes — olives, avocado, or thinly sliced red bell pepper are great additions.
