Cucumber Caprese Salad

This vibrant cucumber caprese salad brings a refreshing twist to the classic Italian favorite. The crisp cucumber adds a satisfying crunch while the juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella create that perfect balance of flavors and textures you crave in a summer salad.

I discovered this recipe during a particularly scorching summer when turning on the oven felt like torture. It quickly became our go-to light dinner paired with crusty bread for those evenings when we want something satisfying yet refreshing.

Ingredients

• Cucumber: provides the perfect refreshing crunch and hydrating base for this salad
• Cherry tomatoes: deliver sweet bursts of flavor choose the ripest ones you can find
• Fresh mozzarella: offers that creamy richness that makes caprese irresistible
• Red onion: adds a gentle kick and complexity look for firm onions with shiny skins
• Olive oil: forms the base of your marinade use extra virgin for best flavor
• Balsamic vinegar: brings the perfect touch of acidity and sweetness
• Dried herbs: infuse the marinade with aromatic Italian flavors
• Optional fresh basil leaves: add bright color and authentic caprese flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Create the Marinade:

Combine olive oil balsamic vinegar dried oregano dried basil salt and pepper in a small bowl. Whisk everything thoroughly until well blended and set aside. This allows the dried herbs time to release their flavors into the oil and vinegar base.

Prepare the Cucumber:

Peel a fresh cucumber completely then create texture by scoring it with a fork lengthwise. This unique technique creates ridges that help the dressing cling better to each piece. Slice thinly then dice into bite-sized pieces for perfect forkfuls.

Add Remaining Vegetables:

Quarter the cherry tomatoes to release their juicy sweetness. Finely dice the red onion into small pieces ensuring they distribute evenly throughout the salad without overwhelming any single bite. Combine these with the cucumber in your serving bowl.

Incorporate the Mozzarella:

Cut fresh mozzarella into bite-sized pieces similar in size to your vegetables. If using pearl mozzarella you can add them whole. The cheese should be cold but not straight from the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor.

Combine and Marinate:

Pour your prepared dressing over all ingredients in the bowl. Gently toss everything together ensuring each piece gets coated with the flavorful marinade. Allow the salad to rest for at least 10 minutes before serving this crucial step lets flavors meld together beautifully.

Save

The fork scoring technique for the cucumber is my favorite little secret with this recipe. My grandmother taught me this trick years ago and it not only creates an attractive presentation but also helps the marinade cling to each piece. The shallow grooves capture little pockets of flavor that burst with every bite.

Make It Ahead

This salad can be prepared up to 4 hours in advance with a simple adjustment. Prepare all ingredients and store them separately in the refrigerator. The marinade can be mixed and kept at room temperature. Combine everything about 10 minutes before serving to maintain the perfect texture. The cucumber stays crisp the tomatoes remain juicy and the cheese keeps its delightful creaminess.

Creative Variations

Transform this salad into a complete meal by adding protein options like grilled chicken slices or chickpeas for extra staying power. Consider substituting burrata for an even creamier experience or try using yellow cherry tomatoes for a striking color contrast. For a flavor boost add a clove of minced garlic to the marinade or incorporate a tablespoon of pesto instead of the dried herbs.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile salad shines as both a side dish and light main course. Serve alongside grilled meats or fish for a complete summer meal. For a stunning presentation arrange on a large platter rather than mixing in a bowl creating a colorful display of ingredients. Pair with crusty Italian bread to soak up the flavorful marinade or serve in lettuce cups for an elegant appetizer option at your next gathering.

Nutritional Benefits

The combination of fresh vegetables and mozzarella creates a nutritionally balanced dish. Cucumbers provide hydration and vitamins while tomatoes offer lycopene and antioxidants. The mozzarella delivers calcium and protein making this more satisfying than a typical green salad. The olive oil adds heart-healthy fats and the herbs contribute additional micronutrients and antioxidant properties without additional calories.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this cucumber caprese salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the components up to 4 hours ahead, but it's best to add the marinade about 10-15 minutes before serving. Storing it too long with the dressing may cause the vegetables to become soggy and the mozzarella to absorb too much vinegar.

→ What can I substitute for fresh mozzarella?

If fresh mozzarella isn't available, you can substitute with feta cheese, burrata, or even a mild goat cheese. Each will provide a different flavor profile but will work well with the other ingredients.

→ Is there a way to reduce the carbohydrates in this dish?

To reduce carbohydrates, you can use less tomato and more cucumber, or substitute some of the tomatoes with bell peppers. You could also reduce the amount of balsamic vinegar or use a balsamic glaze with no added sugars.

→ How can I add more protein to this caprese salad?

To increase the protein content, consider adding grilled chicken, tuna, chickpeas, or white beans. These additions complement the existing flavors while making the dish more substantial and satisfying as a main course.

→ What herbs work best if I don't have fresh basil?

If fresh basil isn't available, you can use fresh mint, parsley, or a small amount of fresh thyme. Each will provide a different flavor profile. If using dried herbs instead of fresh, remember that dried herbs are more potent, so use about one-third the amount.

→ How important is the fork-scoring technique for the cucumber?

Fork-scoring creates texture on the cucumber surface, helping it to better absorb the marinade. While not essential, this technique enhances flavor absorption and creates an interesting visual texture. If you're short on time, simply dicing the cucumber works fine too.