Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad

I once decided to give the classic Caprese salad a refreshing twist when I had a few cucumbers sitting in my fridge so I sliced them thin and added them to the usual tomatoes mozzarella and basil. The result was a crisp, vibrant salad that instantly became my new favorite way to enjoy these simple ingredients.

Since then I’ve made this easy cucumber Caprese salad countless times because it’s light, colorful and perfect for any occasion. The combination of juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, creamy mozzarella and fragrant basil drizzled with balsamic glaze always tastes like summer in every bite.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Cherry tomatoes – Sweet and juicy, they add vibrant color.
• Cucumbers – Crisp and refreshing to balance the richness.
• Mozzarella balls – Creamy and soft, perfect for the salad.
• Fresh basil leaves – Provide a fragrant, aromatic flavor.
• Olive oil – Adds richness and ties the ingredients together.
• Balsamic glaze – Sweet and tangy, the perfect finishing touch.
• Salt – Enhances all the fresh flavors.
• Black pepper – Adds a mild kick of spice.
• Tools You’ll Need
• Sharp knife – For slicing cucumbers and halving tomatoes.
• Cutting board – To prepare all the vegetables easily.
• Mixing bowl – To toss everything together gently.
• Salad tongs – For mixing and serving the salad.

Instructions

Step 1:

I start by slicing the cucumbers into thin rounds and halving the cherry tomatoes to make them easy to eat.

Step 2:

I place the cucumbers, tomatoes, mozzarella balls and fresh basil leaves in a large bowl.

Step 3:

I drizzle everything with olive oil, season lightly with salt and black pepper then toss gently to combine.

Step 4:

I arrange the salad on a serving plate and finish it with a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Step 5:

I let it sit for a few minutes so the flavors meld together before serving.

Tips

For an extra burst of flavor I sometimes add a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. You can also use heirloom tomatoes for a colorful variation. If you love a bit of crunch, add toasted pine nuts on top.

Ways to Serve

This cucumber Caprese salad is perfect as a side dish for grilled meats or seafood. It also works beautifully as a light lunch served with crusty bread. For gatherings, serve it on a large platter with extra basil for an elegant touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make easy cucumber Caprese salad ahead of time?

Yes, but for best texture, add the basil and drizzle the glaze just before serving.

What can I use instead of balsamic glaze?

You can use balsamic vinegar mixed with a bit of honey as an alternative.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely, sliced bell peppers or avocado make great additions.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try this easy cucumber Caprese salad because it’s refreshing, flavorful and so simple to make. Share your version with me because I’d love to see how you enjoy it.

Happy Cooking!

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