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Cucumber Caprese Salad

cucumber Caprese salad - featured image
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This easy, refreshing summer salad combines crisp cucumber, creamy mozzarella, and juicy cherry tomatoes tossed with fresh basil and a tangy balsamic dressing. It’s a fuss-free, crowd-pleasing side dish perfect for picnics, potlucks, or light lunches.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium English cucumbers, thinly sliced (or regular cucumbers, peeled)
  • 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), drained and patted dry
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chiffonade
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, or to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
  • Optional: 1 diced avocado
  • Optional: Crusty bread for serving

Instructions

  1. Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers into 1/8-inch rounds. If using regular cucumbers, peel them first.
  2. Halve the cherry or grape tomatoes.
  3. Drain and pat dry the mozzarella balls. If using a large ball, cut into 1-inch pieces.
  4. Tear or chiffonade the fresh basil leaves.
  5. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar or glaze, sea salt, and black pepper until emulsified. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  6. In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together cucumbers, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Pour in about 3/4 of the dressing and toss again.
  7. Transfer the salad to a serving platter. Drizzle with remaining dressing and garnish with extra basil, flaky sea salt, or optional red onion/avocado.
  8. Serve immediately, chilled and fresh. If making ahead, keep dressing and basil separate until serving.

Notes

For extra crispness, chill cucumber slices in cold water before assembling. Pat mozzarella dry to prevent sogginess. Toss salad gently and dress just before serving for best texture. Variations include vegan cheese, mint or dill instead of basil, or adding avocado or red onion.

Nutrition

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

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