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Cucumber Caprese Salad: Easy 5-Ingredient Summer Recipe

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This cucumber Caprese salad is a fresh, vibrant twist on the classic Italian favorite, featuring crisp cucumber, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a sweet-tart balsamic glaze. Ready in under 15 minutes, it’s the perfect refreshing side for summer gatherings, picnics, or quick lunches.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large English cucumber, washed and thinly sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or 2 medium heirloom tomatoes, sliced)
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella (sliced or mozzarella pearls)
  • 1/2 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
  • 2–3 tbsp balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste (optional)
  • 1–2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (optional)
  • A few thin slices red onion (optional)
  • 1/2 avocado, sliced (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash the cucumber and tomatoes. Slice cucumber into thin rounds (about 1/8 inch thick). Halve cherry tomatoes or slice heirloom tomatoes into rounds.
  2. Drain and pat dry mozzarella. Slice into rounds if using a large ball, or use mozzarella pearls.
  3. Arrange cucumber slices, tomato halves, and mozzarella in alternating layers on a large platter or salad bowl. Scatter torn basil leaves over the top.
  4. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Drizzle olive oil over everything for a rich finish, if desired.
  5. Drizzle balsamic glaze in zigzag streaks over the salad.
  6. Serve immediately while cold and crisp. If prepping ahead, add basil and glaze just before serving.

Notes

For best results, use cold ingredients and add basil and balsamic glaze just before serving. Pat mozzarella and cucumber dry to avoid excess moisture. English or Persian cucumbers are ideal for crunch. Customize with optional add-ins like avocado, red onion, or olive oil. Salad is best enjoyed within an hour of assembling.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber caprese salad, summer salad, easy salad, gluten-free, vegetarian, mozzarella, basil, balsamic glaze, picnic, potluck, healthy salad

Find it online: https://blairrecipes.com/cucumber-caprese-salad-easy-5-ingredient-summer-recipe/