Description
Looking for a quick, healthy side dish that screams summer? This Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad brings together the vibrant crunch of cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella pearls, and fresh basil—all drizzled in a zesty balsamic vinaigrette. It’s the perfect blend of crisp textures and bold, garden-fresh flavors. Whether you’re planning a picnic, BBQ, or want a light dish to go with grilled meats or soups, this salad fits right in. It’s great as a healthy snack, a colorful appetizer, or a refreshing choice for your easy dinner or lunch ideas.
Ingredients
1 large cucumber sliced thin
1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
1 cup mozzarella pearls
1/4 small red onion thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves torn
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon cracked black pepper
pinch red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
1. Slice the cucumber into rounds and halve the cherry tomatoes. Thinly slice the red onion and tear basil if needed.
2. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, sea salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. In a salad bowl, combine cucumbers, tomatoes, mozzarella, and red onion. Pour the dressing over the salad.
4. Gently toss everything to coat.
5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra cracked pepper.
6. Serve immediately or chill for 15 minutes to enhance flavor.
Notes
For best results, use chilled ingredients and fresh herbs just before serving.
Want to make it a meal? Add grilled chicken or avocado on top!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossed
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: fresh salad, caprese, cucumber, summer recipes, vegetarian, easy recipe