Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad

Name: Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large cucumbers, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 8 ounces mozzarella balls, drained; Fresh basil leaves; Balsamic glaze; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Brighten up your summer gatherings with this refreshing Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad. Featuring crisp cucumber slices, creamy mozzarella, and ripe tomatoes, all drizzled with a balsamic glaze, this light dish is perfect as an appetizer or a side. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s a delightful way to enjoy fresh ingredients and impress your guests.

Created by

Nora Ellis

Last updated on 2025-11-14T12:19:01.185Z

This Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad is a vibrant and refreshing addition to any summer meal. It requires minimal effort and highlights the freshness of seasonal ingredients.

A Refreshing Summer Delight

The Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad is not just a feast for the eyes, but also a refreshing treat that perfectly embodies the spirit of summer. With the vibrant colors of fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, and greenery, this salad brings a delightful crunch and juicy zest to any table. It's a fantastic way to celebrate the warmth of the season and the bounty of fresh produce available at local markets.

This salad shines as a versatile dish that can complement a variety of meals or serve as a stunning stand-alone appetizer. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue, a picnic in the park, or a simple family dinner, this recipe effortlessly elevates the occasion. It's light, satisfying, and encourages the use of fresh ingredients.

Perfect Pairings and Variations

While the classic combination of cucumbers, tomatoes, and mozzarella is truly unbeatable, there are numerous ways to innovate. Consider adding sliced avocados for creaminess or red onion for a touch of zest. Additionally, integrating grilled peaches or nectarines could provide a beautiful contrast to the salad's freshness, making it even more exciting.

For an extra flavor layer, try infusing your balsamic glaze with herbs like oregano or thyme before drizzling it over the salad. This adds an aromatic touch that impresses as much as it satisfies. Don't shy away from experimenting with your favorite cheeses; feta or goat cheese can create a unique twist on the original caprese theme.

Ingredients

For the Salad

2 large cucumbers, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
8 ounces mozzarella balls, drained
Fresh basil leaves
Balsamic glaze
Salt and pepper to taste

Enjoy the freshness!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Slice the cucumbers, halve the cherry tomatoes, and drain the mozzarella balls.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil leaves.

Dress the Salad

Drizzle with balsamic glaze and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to combine.

Serve

Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for up to an hour before serving.

Serve chilled for the best flavor!

Nutritional Benefits

Cucumbers are not only rich in water, making them perfect for hydration, but they also bring a crisp texture to your salad. Packed with vitamins K and C, cucumbers offer a variety of health benefits, including potential improvements in skin health and hydration.

Tomatoes, the star of any caprese dish, are an excellent source of antioxidants, particularly lycopene. This powerful compound has been linked to many health benefits, such as improved heart health and reduced risk of certain cancers. By using cherry tomatoes, you're bringing added natural sweetness to the salad.

Tips for Preparation

To ensure the best flavor and texture, opt for ripe, in-season tomatoes. This will enhance the overall taste of the salad and create a vibrant presentation. When selecting cucumbers, look for firm, unblemished skin and avoid any that are soft or wrinkled.

Before assembly, consider chilling your ingredients in the refrigerator. A slightly cool salad is especially refreshing on a warm day, which enhances the eating experience. Also, don’t hesitate to prep the ingredients in advance—just hold off on dressing until you’re ready to serve for the freshest taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble the salad just before serving.