This Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad brings a burst of summer freshness to your table with minimal effort. It features crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, all brightened by fresh basil. You can whip up this vibrant dish in minutes, making it the perfect light side or main meal for any warm-weather occasion. Get ready for a delicious, quick, and satisfying experience.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad
You’ll quickly fall in love with this simple yet elegant salad. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your recipe rotation:
- Quick and effortless preparation. This salad comes together in less than 15 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
- Bursting with fresh, garden-inspired flavors. Enjoy the natural sweetness of tomatoes, the cooling crispness of cucumber, and the aromatic touch of basil.
- Light, refreshing, and perfect for summer. It’s a fantastic choice for hot days when you want something cool and satisfying.
- Versatile for any occasion or meal. Serve this fresh caprese salad as a side, appetizer, or add protein for a complete lunch.
- Healthy, low-carb, and naturally gluten-free. This recipe fits various dietary needs without sacrificing taste or satisfaction.
Ingredients for Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad
Gathering fresh, high-quality ingredients is key to the best Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad. Each component plays an important role in the overall flavor profile.
- 1 medium English cucumber, washed and unpeeled
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls, drained well
- 2 cups grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinaigrette, store-bought or homemade
Notes & Substitutions
- Cucumbers: English cucumbers are preferred for their thin skin and fewer seeds, but feel free to use any variety you have. You can peel them if you prefer. Persian cucumbers also work wonderfully for this simple caprese salad.
- Mozzarella: If mozzarella pearls aren’t available, dice a block of fresh mozzarella into bite-sized cubes. Avoid pre-shredded mozzarella, as it lacks the creamy texture and flavor of fresh.
- Tomatoes: While grape or cherry tomatoes are ideal for their sweetness and easy prep, chopped Roma or heirloom tomatoes can also be used.
- Basil: Fresh basil is essential for an authentic flavor in this cucumber caprese. Do not substitute with dried basil, as it will not provide the same aromatic punch. ScienceDirect highlights that dried basil leaves are much less aromatic than fresh ones, making fresh basil crucial for the best flavor.
- Vinaigrette: For a richer flavor, you can substitute the balsamic vinaigrette with a drizzle of quality balsamic glaze. Alternatively, combine extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar to taste for a simple dressing.
Equipment
You only need a few basic kitchen tools to prepare this delightful salad.
- Cutting board: For safely preparing your vegetables.
- Sharp knife: Ensures clean, even cuts for the cucumber and tomatoes.
- Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to toss all ingredients without spillage.
- Serving spoon or tongs: Essential for gently combining and serving the salad.
How to Make Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad
Creating this Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a perfect dish every time.
- Prepare cucumber: Begin by washing your English cucumber. Slice it in half lengthwise, then slice each half in half again. Chop these quartered strips into uniform, bite-sized pieces. Aim for pieces roughly the same size as your mozzarella pearls and halved tomatoes for consistent texture.
- Combine main ingredients: Gently place the chopped cucumber, drained fresh mozzarella pearls, and halved grape or cherry tomatoes into your large mixing bowl. Take care not to crush the delicate tomatoes.
- Add flavorings: Sprinkle the freshly chopped basil leaves over the ingredients in the bowl. Pour the balsamic vinaigrette evenly over the top. This combination adds a burst of aromatic and tangy flavor to the fresh vegetables.
- Toss gently: Using your serving spoon or tongs, gently toss all the ingredients together. Ensure that the dressing coats everything evenly, distributing the basil and flavors throughout the cucumber caprese. Be careful not to mash the tomatoes or mozzarella.
- Serve immediately: For the freshest taste and texture, serve your delicious salad right away. You can also refrigerate it for about 20-30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors and allow the salad to chill thoroughly.
Pro Tips for the Best Cucumber Caprese Salad
Elevate your simple caprese salad with these helpful tips, ensuring maximum flavor and enjoyment.
- Ingredient quality: Always use the freshest possible produce for the best flavor. Locally sourced ingredients often make a significant difference.
- Chill before serving: Refrigerating the salad for 20-30 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld and the ingredients to become wonderfully crisp.
- Mindful chopping: Aim for uniform, bite-sized pieces for all ingredients. This ensures every forkful delivers a balanced combination of flavors and textures.
- Dress lightly: Start with less dressing and add more to taste. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
- Fresh basil: Chop your basil right before mixing it into the salad. This preserves its vibrant color and maximizes its aromatic oils for the most fragrant dish.
- Prevent sogginess: To maintain crispness, especially if making ahead, dress the easy cucumber caprese salad just before serving.
Serving, Storage, and Variations
This versatile cucumber caprese is perfect for many occasions and easy to adapt.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve it as a light side dish alongside grilled meats or fish.
- Enjoy it as a refreshing appetizer before a larger meal.
- Pair this simple caprese salad with grilled chicken or salmon for a complete, healthy lunch or dinner.
- It’s an excellent addition to any picnic spread, potluck, or summer barbecue.
Storage Instructions
- Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- It will keep well for up to 2-3 days, though the cucumbers may soften slightly over time.
- This cucumber caprese salad is best eaten fresh for optimal texture and crispness.
- Make-ahead tip: If preparing in advance, combine all ingredients except the dressing and basil. Add those just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.
Delicious Variations
- Additions: Enhance your salad with thin slices of red onion, briny Kalamata olives, or colorful diced bell peppers.
- Dressings: Experiment with other dressings like a zesty lemon vinaigrette or a vibrant basil pesto. A simple drizzle of quality olive oil with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice is also wonderful.
- Herbs: Introduce fresh mint, oregano, or parsley for different flavor profiles.
- Protein boost: Make it a meal by adding cooked grilled chicken, shrimp, or a handful of chickpeas.
- Extra indulgence: For a gourmet touch, drizzle a balsamic glaze over the finished salad just before serving.
- Spicy kick: A tiny pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle warmth if you enjoy a little heat.
Nutrition Information
This cucumber caprese salad offers a light and healthy option for any meal. It is naturally low in carbohydrates and rich in fresh produce. The mozzarella provides a good source of protein and calcium, while the cucumbers and tomatoes contribute essential vitamins and fiber.
This makes it a satisfying choice without being overly heavy. For precise dietary needs, consider using a nutrition calculator based on your specific ingredients.
| Serving Size | 1 g |
|---|---|
| Calories | 103 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 4 g |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3 g |
| Cholesterol | 18 mg |
| Sodium | 243 mg |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients for this easy cucumber caprese salad ahead. Just combine the cucumber, mozzarella, and tomatoes, but add the basil and dressing right before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
What kind of cucumbers are best?
English or Persian cucumbers are ideal due to their thin skins and small seeds. However, regular garden cucumbers also work, especially if you peel them first.
Can I use dried basil?
No, fresh basil is crucial for the vibrant flavor of this recipe. Dried basil will not give you the same aromatic and fresh taste that makes this salad so special.
How long does this salad last in the fridge?
This salad keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Its texture and crispness are best enjoyed on the first day.
Conclusion
This Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad is truly a testament to simple, fresh ingredients creating something extraordinary. It’s incredibly quick to prepare, bursting with vibrant flavors, and perfectly suited for any summer gathering or a light meal.
Embrace the ease and deliciousness of this recipe, and enjoy the refreshing taste of the season. Give this wonderful salad a try, share your experience, and let us know how much you love it!
Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Wash and quarter the cucumber lengthwise, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Halve the grape or cherry tomatoes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped cucumber, halved tomatoes, and mozzarella pearls.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the mixture and pour in the balsamic vinaigrette.
- Gently toss with a spoon or tongs to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Serve immediately or chill for 20–30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
- Fresh basil is essential—do not substitute with dried.
- If mozzarella pearls aren’t available, use diced fresh mozzarella.
- For deeper flavor, consider using balsamic glaze or a mix of olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
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