Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad: A Fresh Twist on a Classic Favorite

If you’re looking for a light, refreshing, and flavor-packed summer dish, this Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad checks all the boxes. It’s a simple yet elegant salad that brings together the creamy richness of fresh mozzarella, the bright acidity of tomatoes, and the cool crunch of cucumbers, all tied together with a fragrant basil finish and tangy balsamic vinaigrette.

Traditionally, Caprese salad is made with slices of tomato, mozzarella, and basil. But adding cucumbers gives this dish a crisp bite and makes it even more suitable for warm-weather gatherings. Not only are cucumbers hydrating and mild in flavor, they’re also incredibly nutritious. You can read more about the health benefits of cucumbers to appreciate why this ingredient deserves a prime spot in your summer recipes.

Beyond being healthy, this salad is super customizable and perfect for quick prep. You can use either store-bought or homemade dressing—if you’re in the mood to make your own, check out this guide on how to make balsamic vinaigrette to enhance the freshness of your salad even more.

Why You’ll Love This Salad

• Quick and easy to prepare — under 15 minutes!
• No cooking required
• Packed with fresh summer produce
• Customizable to your taste or dietary needs
• Ideal for potlucks, barbecues, or a light lunch

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad, you’ll need:

• 1 English cucumber – sliced into half-moons or chunks
  English cucumbers are ideal due to their thin skin and minimal seeds.
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella pearls – or chopped fresh mozzarella
• 2 cups grape or cherry tomatoes – halved for bite-sized convenience
• 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves – torn or chiffonade
• 1/3 cup balsamic vinaigrette – or balsamic glaze for a sweeter touch

Optional Add-ins:

• Thinly sliced red onion
• Cubed avocado
• Grilled chicken or shrimp for protein
• A drizzle of olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar
• A spoonful of basil pesto for an herbal punch

Ingredient Tips & Substitutions

• Mozzarella: If you can’t find mozzarella pearls, buy a ball of fresh mozzarella and cut it into small cubes.
• Cucumbers: Regular cucumbers can be used if peeled and de-seeded.
• Tomatoes: Grape or cherry tomatoes are sweeter and less watery than Roma, but all can work.
• Dressing: Use store-bought balsamic vinaigrette or glaze, or make your own for maximum control.
• Basil: Fresh basil is a must—dried basil won’t offer the same aromatic intensity.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the cucumber
   • Slice the English cucumber in half lengthwise, then again into quarters. Chop into bite-sized pieces.
   • Optional: Peel the skin if you prefer a softer texture.
2. Combine ingredients
   • In a medium bowl, toss together cucumber, halved tomatoes, and mozzarella pearls.
3. Add herbs and dressing
   • Tear fresh basil and sprinkle it in.
   • Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette or glaze and gently toss to coat.
4. Serve or store
   • Serve immediately for maximum crunch or refrigerate up to 2 hours for chilled flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Add sliced red onion for tang
• Swap vinaigrette with balsamic glaze for a richer taste
• Add grilled protein to turn it into a full meal
• Layer in a mason jar for a portable salad
• Mix in avocado for a creamy twist
• Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt for simplicity

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~103
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 243mg

This salad is naturally gluten-free and can be made keto or low-carb by adjusting the dressing or skipping tomatoes.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Prep Ahead: Mix salad without dressing and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Add dressing before serving.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2–3 days.
• Avoid Sogginess: Keep dressing on the side if not serving immediately.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with grilled meats like chicken, steak, or fish
• Serve as a light starter or side with pasta
• Enjoy with crusty bread to soak up the dressing
• Use as a topping on a bed of arugula or baby greens

FAQs: Cucumber Caprese Salad

What is a Caprese salad made of?
A classic Caprese salad contains fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, olive oil, and sometimes balsamic vinegar. This version adds cucumbers for a refreshing crunch.

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?
Yes, but peel and deseed them for best results, as their skin is thicker and seeds more pronounced.

What dressing goes best with Caprese salad?
Balsamic vinaigrette or glaze works beautifully. You can also use olive oil with a sprinkle of salt and pepper for a lighter version.

Can Caprese salad be made the day before?
Yes, but for optimal texture, add basil and dressing just before serving.

How long can cucumber Caprese salad sit out?
No more than 2 hours at room temperature, especially if using dairy. Keep it chilled whenever possible.

Can I make this vegan or dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use vegan mozzarella alternatives or skip the cheese and double the veggies.

Is Caprese salad served cold or warm?
Always cold or room temperature. It’s designed to be refreshing and cooling, especially in summer.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Salad

• Use chilled ingredients for maximum refreshment
• Don’t overdress — let the ingredients shine
• Tear basil instead of chopping to prevent bruising
• Serve on a platter or in a glass bowl for a beautiful presentation

Related Terms to Boost SEO (Use Naturally Throughout)

• Summer salad recipes
• Cucumber tomato mozzarella salad
• Garden-fresh salad ideas
• Low-carb summer side dishes
• Quick no-cook meals
• Italian-style salad
• Salad with fresh basil
• Caprese with a twist
• Healthy potluck recipes
• 10-minute salad recipes

This Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad is a simple upgrade to a timeless classic. With its crisp textures and bold flavors, it’s sure to become a go-to dish for any warm-weather occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking to eat lighter at home, this salad delivers both satisfaction and style.

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