Cucumber Caprese Salad is a light, fresh, and flavorful dish perfect for warm summer days. This easy-to-make recipe combines the crispness of cucumbers with the juiciness of tomatoes and the creaminess of mozzarella. The addition of fresh herbs and a simple balsamic dressing makes this salad a delightful option for any meal, whether you’re enjoying a quick lunch or hosting a gathering. With no cooking required, it’s the perfect dish when you want something light and healthy but still full of flavor.
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Why Cucumber Caprese Salad is Perfect for You
Cucumber Caprese Salad has all the qualities you want in a dish: it’s quick, healthy, and family-friendly. It requires no cooking and comes together in just a few minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual summer parties. The combination of crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella provides a satisfying and refreshing experience. Plus, it’s packed with essential nutrients, making it a healthy option for all ages. Whether served as a side dish or light lunch, this salad is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients for Cucumber Caprese Salad
To make the perfect Cucumber Caprese Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:
• Cucumber: Adds a refreshing crunch and is low in calories. Choose English cucumbers for the best texture and flavor.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Offer a burst of juicy sweetness that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
• Fresh Mozzarella: Provides a creamy texture that balances out the crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes.
• Red Onion: Adds a bit of sharpness and color to the salad. If you prefer a milder taste, substitute with green onions.
• Olive Oil: Helps bind the flavors and adds a rich, smooth finish.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Brings acidity and sweetness, enhancing the flavor of the salad.
• Fresh Basil: Infuses the salad with a fragrant, herbal note.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, these simple seasonings bring out the freshness of the vegetables.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
If you’re missing an ingredient or looking for substitutions, here are some options to consider:
• Fresh Mozzarella: If you can’t find fresh mozzarella, use burrata for extra creaminess or mini mozzarella balls (ciliegine) for a similar texture.
• Balsamic Vinegar: You can swap balsamic vinegar with red wine vinegar or white balsamic for a different flavor profile. Apple cider vinegar works as well, though it is stronger, so use less.
• Red Onion: For a sweeter taste, try substituting red onion with shallots or sweet onions. Green onions also offer a mild flavor.
• Tomatoes: Grape tomatoes or Sun Gold tomatoes are great substitutes for cherry tomatoes. You can also use regular tomatoes, chopped into small pieces.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cucumber Caprese Salad
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined and set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Peel the cucumber and score it with a fork to create a textured surface. Slice the cucumber thinly, then dice it into small pieces. Place the diced cucumber into a medium-sized bowl.
- Add the Tomatoes and Onion: Quarter the cherry tomatoes and add them to the bowl with the cucumber. Thinly slice the red onion and add it to the bowl as well. If you prefer a milder taste, you can skip the onion.
- Add the Mozzarella: Cut the fresh mozzarella into bite-sized pieces, or use pearl-sized mozzarella balls. Add the mozzarella to the bowl with the vegetables.
- Combine and Marinate: Pour the marinade over the vegetables and mozzarella. Mix everything well to ensure all the ingredients are coated evenly. Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend before serving.
Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Cucumber Caprese Salad
• Avoid Watery Salad: To prevent the salad from becoming too watery, salt the cucumber slices and let them drain in a colander for 15-20 minutes before mixing them into the salad.
• Dry the Mozzarella: Before cutting the mozzarella, pat it dry with paper towels to avoid excess liquid that can dilute the dressing.
• Add Dressing Just Before Serving: To keep the salad crisp, avoid adding the dressing until right before serving. This helps prevent the cucumbers from becoming soggy.
• Adjust the Vinegar: Different brands of balsamic vinegar vary in sweetness and acidity. Taste your dressing before adding it to the salad to ensure the balance is right.
Pairing Ideas and Variations
Cucumber Caprese Salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. For a simple summer meal, try it alongside grilled chicken, crusty bread with olive oil, or a light pasta like spaghetti aglio e olio. This salad is also a fantastic side for barbecue dishes, including burgers, sausages, or steak.
If you want to try variations, consider making it a spicy version by adding a dash of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon for a citrusy twist. For a gluten-free meal, pair it with grilled shrimp or a rice dish. This salad is highly versatile and can be adapted to fit various tastes and dietary preferences.
Storage Instructions for Cucumber Caprese Salad
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Be aware that the cucumbers and tomatoes will release more liquid over time, so the salad may become a bit watery. If you want to prep ahead, chop the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Keep the mozzarella whole until ready to serve. For the dressing, mix it up to three days in advance and store it in a sealed jar in the fridge.
Conclusion
Cucumber Caprese Salad is a perfect combination of light, fresh, and vibrant flavors that make it ideal for hot summer days or casual get-togethers. The balance of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all tied together with a simple balsamic dressing, creates a dish that’s not only delicious but also healthy. With its easy preparation, versatility, and make-ahead options, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your summer recipe rotation. Whether enjoyed as a refreshing side or a light main dish, Cucumber Caprese Salad is bound to impress.
FAQs About Cucumber Caprese Salad
Can I make Cucumber Caprese Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time by chopping the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions, and storing them separately in the fridge. The mozzarella should remain whole until you’re ready to serve. The dressing can also be made in advance and stored in a jar in the fridge for up to three days. Combine everything just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crisp.
Can I substitute the mozzarella in this recipe?
Yes! If you can’t find fresh mozzarella, you can use mini mozzarella balls (ciliegine), burrata for extra creaminess, or even regular mozzarella cubes, though the texture will be firmer. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using vegan mozzarella.
What can I serve with Cucumber Caprese Salad?
Cucumber Caprese Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats such as chicken or shrimp, as well as Italian-inspired dishes like spaghetti aglio e olio. It’s also a great side for BBQ favorites like burgers, sausages, or steak. For a more substantial meal, serve it with crusty bread and a drizzle of olive oil.
How do I prevent the salad from getting watery?
To avoid excess moisture in your Cucumber Caprese Salad, salt the cucumber slices and let them drain in a colander for 15-20 minutes. Also, make sure to pat the mozzarella dry with paper towels before adding it to the salad. This helps maintain the crispness of the cucumbers and prevents the salad from becoming soggy.
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Cucumber Caprese Salad
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cucumber Caprese Salad is a light and refreshing dish made with crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all tossed in a tangy balsamic dressing. Perfect for warm summer days, this no-cook recipe takes just minutes to prepare and is ideal for casual gatherings, BBQs, or a healthy side dish.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- Pinch salt
- Pinch pepper
- 1 cucumber, peeled, fork-scored, thinly sliced, then diced
- 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, cut into quarters
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella
- ½ large red onion, chopped into small pieces
- Optional: fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are combined and set aside.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Peel and score the cucumber with a fork to create a textured surface. Slice the cucumber thinly, then dice it into small pieces and place in a medium-sized bowl.
- Add the Tomatoes and Onion: Quarter the cherry tomatoes and add them to the bowl. Thinly slice the red onion and add it as well. (Optional: skip the onion for a milder taste.)
- Add the Mozzarella: Slice the fresh mozzarella into bite-sized pieces, or use pearl-sized mozzarella balls. Add the mozzarella to the bowl with the vegetables.
- Combine and Marinate: Pour the marinade over the vegetables and mozzarella. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated. Let the salad sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- For a different flavor, try adding a squeeze of lemon or red pepper flakes for a touch of spice.
- If you’re short on time, make the dressing ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to three days.
- To avoid a watery salad, salt the cucumbers and let them drain for 15-20 minutes before mixing.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute fresh mozzarella with vegan mozzarella.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150-200 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 25mg