Description

Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad is a light, refreshing dish that combines the classic flavors of Caprese salad with the cool crunch of cucumber. With mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy balsamic vinegar dressing, it’s a quick and flavorful side or appetizer perfect for warm days.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

1 tablespoon dried oregano

1 tablespoon dried basil

Pinch of salt

Pinch of pepper

1 cucumber, peeled, fork-scored, thinly sliced, and diced

1½ cups cherry tomatoes, cut into quarters

8 oz fresh mozzarella

½ large red onion, chopped into small pieces

Optional: fresh basil leaves for garnish

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Instructions

Prepare the Marinade:
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, dried basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well combined. Set the marinade aside to let the flavors meld together.
Prepare the Vegetables:
Peel the cucumber and create texture by scraping the skin up and down with a fork. Slice the cucumber thinly and then dice it into small pieces. Add the diced cucumber to a medium-sized bowl.
Add the Tomatoes and Onion:
Quarter the cherry tomatoes and add them to the bowl with the diced cucumber. Thinly slice and dice the red onion and add it to the bowl. If you prefer a simpler flavor profile, you can omit the onion.
Add the Mozzarella:
Slice the fresh mozzarella into bite-sized pieces or use pearl-sized mozzarella balls. Add the mozzarella to the bowl with the vegetables. Gently toss everything together to distribute the ingredients evenly.
Combine and Marinate:
Pour the prepared marinade over the vegetables and mozzarella. Toss everything to coat evenly. Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop.

Notes

Storage: This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. To keep the mozzarella and basil fresh, it’s best to add them right before serving.

Customization:

Add Avocado: For a creamier texture, add diced avocado.
Add Protein: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier dish.
Olives: Add black or green olives for a Mediterranean touch.
Spicy Twist: For extra heat, add red pepper flakes or chopped chili peppers.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Salad, Side Dish
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: Italian-inspired, Mediterranean