Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cucumber Caprese Salad brings a crisp, cool texture from the cucumber that balances perfectly with the juicy sweetness of the tomatoes and the creamy mozzarella. The marinade, made with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and fragrant herbs, infuses the ingredients with an extra burst of flavor. It’s an easy, fresh salad that comes together quickly and can be served as a side dish, appetizer, or light lunch. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and can be customized to your liking.

Ingredients

For the marinade:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon dried basil
• Pinch salt
• Pinch pepper

For the salad:

• 1 cucumber, peeled, fork-scored, and thinly sliced, then diced
• 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, cut into quarters
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella
• ½ large red onion, chopped into small pieces
• Optional: fresh basil leaves

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Prepare the salad: In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumber, quartered cherry tomatoes, chopped mozzarella, and red onion.
3. Marinate the salad: Pour the marinade over the salad ingredients, tossing everything to coat evenly.
4. Let it sit: Allow the salad to sit for at least 10-15 minutes so the flavors can meld together. Optionally, garnish with fresh basil leaves just before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 as a side dish or light lunch. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, making it a quick and easy option for a healthy meal.

Variations

• Add protein: For a more filling dish, add grilled chicken or shrimp.
• Use different cheese: If you don’t have fresh mozzarella, try using bocconcini or a mild goat cheese for a different twist.
• Herb variations: Swap the dried oregano and basil for fresh herbs if available, or experiment with thyme or rosemary for a more aromatic flavor.
• Add avocados: For extra creaminess, try adding diced avocado.

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The cucumber may release some water as it sits, so give it a quick stir before serving again. This salad should not be reheated, as the fresh ingredients lose their texture and flavor when warmed.

FAQs

How long does the salad need to marinate?

Allow the salad to marinate for at least 10-15 minutes for the best flavor, but you can let it sit for up to 30 minutes if you want the ingredients to soak in more of the marinade.

Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

Yes, you can use regular tomatoes, but cherry tomatoes provide a sweeter and more concentrated flavor, which works better in this salad.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

While the salad is best fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and toss them with the marinade just before serving.

Can I make this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, zucchini, or even olives for additional flavor and color.

What can I serve with this salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, pasta dishes, or even as a topping for toast or crostini.

How do I make this salad vegan?

To make this salad vegan, simply swap the fresh mozzarella with a vegan cheese or omit it altogether.

How can I make this salad spicier?

To add some heat, include some thinly sliced jalapeños or drizzle some red pepper flakes over the top before serving.

How should I store any leftover salad?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The cucumber may soften, but the flavors will still be delicious.

Can I freeze this salad?

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the fresh vegetables and mozzarella will change once frozen and thawed.

Conclusion

This Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad is a delightful, light, and refreshing dish that is sure to become a staple at your table. The bright, crisp ingredients paired with the flavorful herb marinade create a perfect balance of taste and texture. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it on its own, this salad is a simple, healthy, and flavorful choice for any occasion.

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