Fresh and Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad: Light, Refreshing Summer Side

Fresh cucumber caprese salad with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil in tangy balsamic dressing. This light, refreshing salad is perfect for summer entertaining and meal prep!

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 2 large English cucumbers, sliced into rounds
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
• 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 2 tbsp pine nuts, toasted (optional)

For the Balsamic Dressing:

• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp honey
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp dried oregano

Instructions

1. Prep the Vegetables: Wash and slice cucumbers into 1/4-inch rounds. Cut cherry tomatoes in half. If using red onion, slice very thinly and soak in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow the flavor.
2. Prepare Mozzarella: If using large mozzarella balls, cut them in half. If using small bocconcini, leave whole or halve for bite-sized pieces.
3. Make the Dressing: In small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, honey, salt, pepper, and oregano until well combined.
4. Toast Pine Nuts: If using, toast pine nuts in dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant.
5. Assemble Salad: In large serving bowl, combine cucumbers, tomatoes, mozzarella, and drained red onion if using.
6. Dress and Toss: Pour dressing over salad and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
7. Add Fresh Elements: Top with torn basil leaves and toasted pine nuts just before serving.
8. Rest and Serve: Let salad sit 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Rest Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Serves: 6-8

Why This Recipe Works

This cucumber caprese salad transforms the classic Italian combination by adding crisp, hydrating cucumbers that provide the perfect textural contrast to creamy mozzarella and juicy tomatoes. The balsamic dressing ties everything together with its sweet-tangy flavor profile, while fresh basil adds aromatic freshness. The key is using high-quality ingredients and allowing time for the flavors to marry together.

Nutritional Benefits

This refreshing salad is packed with hydrating vegetables and provides approximately 180 calories per serving. Cucumbers are 95% water and provide vitamin K and potassium for heart health. Fresh mozzarella delivers high-quality protein and calcium, while tomatoes offer lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. The olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats that help absorb fat-soluble vitamins. Each serving contains about 12g protein and 4g fiber.

Pro Tips & Techniques

• Cucumber Selection: Use English cucumbers for fewer seeds and better crunch
• Salt the Cucumbers: For extra crisp texture, salt cucumber slices and let drain 20 minutes
• Quality Mozzarella: Use fresh mozzarella packed in water, not the dry kind
• Tomato Tips: Use ripe but firm tomatoes that won’t release too much juice
• Basil Handling: Tear basil by hand rather than cutting to prevent bruising
• Make-Ahead: Prepare components separately and assemble just before serving

Recipe Variations & Serving Ideas

• Mediterranean Style: Add Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese
• Protein Boost: Include grilled chicken strips or chickpeas
• Avocado Addition: Add diced avocado just before serving
• Grain Bowl: Serve over quinoa or farro for heartier meal
• Herb Variations: Try fresh mint, oregano, or parsley instead of basil
• Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle with reduced balsamic for elegant presentation

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in refrigerator up to 2 days. Store dressing separately and add just before serving to prevent wilting. The vegetables can be prepped up to 1 day ahead and stored in airtight containers. For meal prep, pack components separately in mason jars with dressing on the bottom, then shake and serve. Avoid adding basil until just before eating to maintain its vibrant color and flavor.