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Creamy Avocado Cucumber Caprese Salad

creamy avocado cucumber Caprese salad - featured image
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A fresh, creamy twist on classic Caprese salad featuring ripe avocado, crisp cucumber, juicy tomatoes, and mozzarella balls tossed in a tangy, creamy dressing. This easy summer side is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or any warm-weather gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium ripe avocados, peeled and diced
  • 1 large English cucumber, sliced into half-moons
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or bocconcini), drained
  • 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves, torn or thinly sliced
  • 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp Greek yogurt or sour cream (or dairy-free yogurt)
  • 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
  • 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry cucumber, tomatoes, and basil. Slice cucumber into half-moons (about 1/4-inch thick). Halve the cherry tomatoes. Tear or thinly slice basil leaves. Set aside.
  2. Cut avocados in half, remove pits, and peel. Dice one avocado into bite-size chunks. Mash the second avocado in a small bowl until smooth for the dressing base.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together mashed avocado, Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt), lemon juice, olive oil, honey/maple syrup (if using), salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Add a splash of water or more lemon juice if too thick. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, gently toss cucumber, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, diced avocado, and half the basil. Pour half the creamy avocado dressing over and toss gently to coat. Reserve the rest of the dressing for drizzling.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, olive oil, or lemon juice as needed.
  6. Transfer salad to a serving platter or bowl. Drizzle remaining dressing over the top, sprinkle with extra basil, and finish with balsamic glaze if desired.
  7. For presentation, arrange extra basil leaves and mozzarella balls on top. Drizzle a touch of olive oil for sheen.

Notes

Chill ingredients before chopping for extra crispness. Toss avocado chunks in lemon juice to prevent browning. Add dressing gradually to avoid soggy veggies. For dairy-free or vegan, use coconut yogurt and vegan mozzarella. Salad is best served fresh; leftovers keep for up to 1 day in the fridge.

Nutrition

Keywords: caprese salad, avocado salad, cucumber salad, summer salad, creamy salad, gluten-free, vegetarian, easy side dish, picnic, potluck

Find it online: https://blairrecipes.com/creamy-avocado-cucumber-caprese-salad-recipe-easy-summer-side/