Description
Looking for a vibrant, healthy snack or light meal that comes together in minutes? This Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad is your new go-to! It’s a quick salad packed with crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella pearls, and aromatic basil—all tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for quick breakfast, easy dinner, healthy snack, or summer food ideas, this no-cook dish is both refreshing and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a fast lunch or an impressive side, this easy recipe delivers with color and flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls)
1 cup cucumber, sliced thin
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
1. Rinse and slice the cherry tomatoes in half. Wash the cucumber and slice thinly. Drain the mozzarella and slice the red onion. Tear basil leaves if large.
2. In a bowl or jar, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Whisk or shake to emulsify.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, mozzarella balls, red onion, and basil.
4. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss everything together to coat evenly.
5. Let the salad sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Garnish with extra basil and black pepper before serving. Serve immediately or chill briefly.
Notes
Use English or Persian cucumbers for the best texture.
For stronger flavor, let the salad marinate at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.
Tear the basil by hand to prevent bruising and blackening.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: easy salad, summer salad, Caprese, cucumber tomato mozzarella salad, quick lunch