Crisp and cool, this Refreshing Cucumber Caprese Salad offers a delightful escape from the summer heat. The juicy burst of cherry tomatoes meets the creamy smoothness of fresh mozzarella, all grounded by the refreshing crunch of cucumber. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a tangy sweetness that elevates the entire dish, while fragrant basil leaves tie all the flavors together in perfect harmony.
The brilliance of this salad lies in its simplicity. It requires no cooking, relying instead on the inherent quality and flavor of fresh ingredients. The balsamic glaze’s slight acidity cuts through the richness of the mozzarella, preventing the salad from feeling heavy, and the cucumber provides a satisfying textural contrast. This is the perfect light lunch, a welcome addition to any summer barbecue, or a sophisticated side dish for a simple dinner. If you’re looking for more light and flavorful salads, you could try this apple grape salad recipe.
Why you’ll love this Refreshing Cucumber Caprese Salad
* Ready in just 10 minutes, making it a perfect quick and easy dish.
* A delightful combination of textures, from the crisp cucumber to the creamy mozzarella.
* The refreshing flavor profile is ideal for hot summer days.
* Visually appealing and elegant, making it suitable for both casual and formal gatherings.
* It’s a fantastic way to enjoy fresh, seasonal produce.
* This cucumber caprese salad is easily customizable to your taste preferences.
Ingredients & Substitutions
* 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
* 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
* 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
* 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
* 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
* 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
**Tips and Substitutions:** For a different flavor, try using burrata instead of fresh mozzarella for an even creamier texture. If you don’t have balsamic glaze, you can make a simple reduction by simmering balsamic vinegar until it thickens. For a little zing, add a squeeze of lemon juice.
How to make Refreshing Cucumber Caprese Salad
Step 1: Arrange the Ingredients
Cucumber caprese salad makes every moment feel comforting. On a serving platter, artfully arrange the cucumber slices, cherry tomato halves, and mozzarella slices.
Step 2: Add Basil
Tuck fresh basil leaves amongst the cucumber, tomatoes, and mozzarella, distributing them evenly for visual appeal and flavor.
Step 3: Drizzle and Season
Drizzle the salad with balsamic glaze and extra virgin olive oil. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
Chef’s Tip: Don’t be shy with the balsamic glaze! It adds a wonderful sweetness and tang that really ties the salad together.
Tips for Success
* Use high-quality, fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
* Slice the cucumber and mozzarella thinly for a more elegant presentation.
* Don’t dress the salad too far in advance, as the cucumber can release moisture.
* For a more intense basil flavor, tear the leaves instead of cutting them.
Serving Suggestions
This Cucumber Caprese Salad is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. Serve it as a light lunch with crusty bread, as a side dish to grilled chicken or fish, or as an appetizer at a summer gathering. It also complements Italian-inspired dishes like pasta or pizza beautifully. If you’re looking for another great side dish, try this classic hashbrown casserole recipe.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Cucumber Caprese Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep in mind that the cucumber may release some liquid as it sits, so it’s best to consume it as soon as possible. Reheating is not recommended, as the fresh ingredients are best enjoyed cold.
Frequently Asked Questions
**Can I make this salad ahead of time?**
While you can slice the cucumber and tomatoes ahead of time, it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to prevent the cucumber from getting soggy.
**Is this salad vegetarian?**
Yes, this salad is vegetarian as it contains no meat or animal by-products (assuming the balsamic glaze does not contain any animal-derived ingredients).
**Can I add other vegetables to this salad?**
Absolutely! Bell peppers, red onion, or even avocado would be delicious additions.
This Refreshing Cucumber Caprese Salad is a testament to the power of simple, fresh ingredients. The combination of flavors and textures is truly irresistible, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments below!
Refreshing Cucumber Caprese Salad
Escape the summer heat with this delightful Cucumber Caprese Salad! Crisp cucumber slices take center stage, perfectly complementing juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. Drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze, this salad is a burst of fresh flavors and contrasting textures that will leave you feeling light and satisfied. Ready in minutes, it’s the ideal side dish for any summer gathering or a quick and healthy lunch. This recipe is a simple yet elegant way to enjoy the best of summer’s bounty, offering a refreshing twist on the classic Caprese.
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Arrange cucumber slices, cherry tomato halves, and mozzarella slices on a serving platter.
- Tuck fresh basil leaves amongst the cucumber, tomatoes, and mozzarella.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze and extra virgin olive oil. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
Notes
For an extra layer of flavor, try grilling the cucumber slices briefly before assembling the salad. You can also add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, but keep in mind the cucumber may release some liquid.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg