This fresh and flavorful Cucumber Caprese Salad is a delightful twist on the traditional Caprese, featuring crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and a delicious marinade that ties it all together. It’s a simple, refreshing salad that’s perfect as a side dish or light meal, offering a burst of fresh flavors in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 10 minutes of prep time, this salad comes together in no time.

• Refreshing and Light: The combination of cool cucumber, tangy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella makes for a light and satisfying dish.

• Perfect for Any Meal: Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, a light lunch, or as part of a larger spread, this salad is versatile and always a crowd-pleaser.

• Make Ahead: The flavors meld together beautifully, so it can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for a few hours before serving.

Ingredients

For the Marinade

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

• 1 tbsp dried oregano

• 1 tbsp dried basil

• Pinch of salt

• Pinch of black pepper

For the Salad

• 1 cucumber, peeled, fork-scored, and thinly sliced, then diced

• 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, cut into quarters

• 8 oz fresh mozzarella

• ½ large red onion, chopped into small pieces (optional)

• Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until the ingredients are well combined. Set the marinade aside to allow the flavors to meld together while you prepare the salad.

2. Prepare the Vegetables: Peel the cucumber and use a fork to scrape the skin lengthwise, creating a textured surface. Slice the cucumber thinly and then dice it into small pieces. Place the diced cucumber in a medium-sized bowl.

3. Add the Tomatoes and Onion: Quarter the cherry tomatoes and add them to the bowl with the cucumber. If you’re using red onion, chop it into small pieces and add it to the bowl as well. If you prefer to skip the onion, you can omit this step.

4. Prepare the Mozzarella: Slice the fresh mozzarella into bite-sized pieces or use small mozzarella balls (bocconcini) if available. Add the mozzarella to the bowl with the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onion.

5. Toss the Salad: Pour the prepared marinade over the vegetables and mozzarella in the bowl. Toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated with the marinade.

6. Let It Sit: Allow the salad to sit for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together and develop.

7. Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish the salad with fresh basil leaves before serving. Serve immediately or refrigerate for a few hours for the flavors to fully develop.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes (optional, if refrigerating)

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: For a heartier salad, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.

• Substitute Vinegar: Try using lemon juice

• Add Avocado: For a creamy twist, add diced avocado to the salad for extra richness.

• Vegan Version: Omit the mozzarella and use plant-based cheese or leave it out for a lighter, vegan-friendly version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers and tomatoes will release some liquid over time, but the salad will still taste great.

• Refrigeration: This salad can be made ahead and refrigerated for a few hours to let the flavors develop. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh for the best texture and taste.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the salad up to 2 hours ahead of time. Just be sure to store it in the fridge, and let it sit for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to come together.

Can I use a different cheese instead of mozzarella?

Yes! You can use feta cheese, goat cheese, or any other cheese you prefer.

How long can I store this salad?

This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. After that, the vegetables may begin to release too much liquid and lose their texture.

Can I skip the balsamic vinegar?

If you’re not a fan of balsamic vinegar, you can substitute it with lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, or red wine vinegar for a tangy alternative.

How do I prevent the cucumbers from getting soggy?

To prevent cucumbers from getting soggy, make sure to drain them well after dicing. If you prefer, you can sprinkle them with a bit of salt and let them sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out excess moisture before mixing the salad.

Can I make this salad without red onion?

Absolutely! If you’re not fond of red onion, simply omit it from the recipe or substitute with another mild onion like shallots.

Can I use store-bought pesto instead of dried herbs?

Yes, you can use store-bought pesto if you prefer a creamier and more robust flavor.

Conclusion

This Cucumber Caprese Salad is a light, refreshing, and delicious dish that combines the best of summer flavors. With crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and a tangy balsamic marinade, it’s the perfect addition to any meal. Whether as a side dish, a light lunch, or a potluck contribution, this salad is sure to be a hit! Enjoy it fresh or make it ahead to let the flavors develop – either way, it’s sure to please!