Juicy Cucumber Caprese Salad

Juicy Cucumber Caprese Salad

Fresh, vibrant, and oh-so-refreshing, the Juicy Cucumber Caprese Salad is an effortless way to elevate any meal or snack. This delightful salad brings together crisp cucumbers, sweet cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil in a combination that’s truly irresistible. Whether you’re planning a picnic, throwing a summer barbecue, or simply looking to add a refreshing side dish to your dinner table, this salad is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Juicy Cucumber Caprese Salad:

• Bursting with Freshness: The mix of juicy cucumbers and ripe tomatoes offers a mouthwatering taste that screams summer.
• Super Quick to Prepare: With minimal chopping and mixing, this dish can be ready in just 10 minutes!
• Healthy and Light: Packed with vegetables and wholesome ingredients, it’s a guilt-free side that pairs perfectly with any meal.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare it ahead of time, and enjoy it throughout the week as a refreshing snack or side.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the colorful presentation and delicious flavors.

Ingredients Needed:

• Vegetables:
  • 2 large cucumbers, sliced into rounds
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• Cheese:
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
• Herbs:
  • Fresh basil leaves, torn or chiffonade
• Dressing:
  • 2–3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1–2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• Spices:
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Slice the cucumbers into rounds.
2. Halve the cherry tomatoes.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls.
4. Toss in fresh basil leaves.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve chilled.

Serving Suggestions for Juicy Cucumber Caprese Salad

Pair this salad with grilled chicken for a wholesome dinner, or serve it alongside crusty bread as a light appetizer. It’s also delicious as a side to fish dishes, or just as a refreshing snack on a hot day!

Tips for Success with Juicy Cucumber Caprese Salad:

• Choose the Right Cucumbers: Look for firm cucumbers with a rich green color for optimal crunch and sweetness.
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use the ripest tomatoes and freshest basil to maximize flavor.
• Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to sit in the fridge for 15-30 minutes for the flavors to meld and for a more refreshing taste.
• Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to tweak the olive oil and balsamic vinegar amounts based on your preference.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container if you have leftovers, but note that the cucumbers may become more watery over time.

Variation

Try adding sliced avocados for a creamier texture, or sprinkle with pine nuts for a delightful crunch!

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the cucumbers crunchy.

What can I substitute for mozzarella?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, avocado or marinated tofu cubes can work well for a different twist!

How long will leftovers last?
The salad is best consumed within a day for optimal freshness, but it can last in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Enjoy creating this delightful Juicy Cucumber Caprese Salad that not only looks beautiful on any table but packs a punch of flavor with every bite!

Juicy Cucumber Caprese Salad

A refreshing salad featuring crisp cucumbers, sweet cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, perfect for any meal or snack.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean

Calories: 150

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Vegetables

• 2 large cucumbers, sliced into rounds Choose firm cucumbers for optimal crunch.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Use the ripest tomatoes for best flavor.

Cheese

• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) Feel free to substitute with dairy-free options if desired.

Herbs

• to taste fresh basil leaves, torn or chiffonade Fresh basil enhances the flavor significantly.

Dressing

• 2–3 tbsp olive oil Adjust to your taste.
• 1–2 tbsp balsamic vinegar Add just before serving for the best taste.

Spices

• to taste salt and black pepper Season according to personal preference.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Slice the cucumbers into rounds.
2. Halve the cherry tomatoes.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls.
4. Toss in fresh basil leaves.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve chilled.

Notes

Allow the salad to sit in the fridge for 15-30 minutes for the flavors to meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container, but consume within 1-2 days for best freshness.