Caprese Cucumber Salad
A light and refreshing Mediterranean-inspired salad combining juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, crisp cucumbers, and fragrant basil, drizzled with a balsamic glaze. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal, especially in summer.
Time
Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced (peeled or unpeeled)
1 pint cherry tomatoes (halved) or 2 medium ripe tomatoes (diced)
8 oz (225 g) fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), halved
½ small red onion, thinly sliced
¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp balsamic glaze (or balsamic reduction)
½ tsp sea salt (to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
Instructions
Prepare the base: In a large salad bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and red onion if using.
Season: Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss gently to combine.
Add basil: Fold in fresh basil leaves right before serving for maximum flavor.
Finish: Drizzle with balsamic glaze over the top.
Serve: Enjoy immediately, or chill for 15 minutes for extra refreshing flavor.
Notes & Tips
Cucumber type: Use English cucumbers for fewer seeds and more crunch.
Cheese swap: If you can’t find small mozzarella balls, cut a mozzarella log into bite-sized cubes.
Make ahead: Mix all ingredients except basil and balsamic glaze; add those just before serving.
Add-ons: Avocado slices, grilled chicken, or toasted pine nuts make it heartier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use regular vinegar instead of balsamic glaze?
A: Yes — but reduce the amount to 1 tsp balsamic vinegar mixed with 1 tsp honey to mimic the glaze.
Q: How long does it last in the fridge?
A: Best eaten fresh, but you can store leftovers for up to 1 day. Basil may wilt, so add extra if serving later.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 210
Protein: 9 g
Fat: 15 g
Carbs: 9 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 4 g