Description
This Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad is a refreshing twist on the classic Italian Caprese, combining crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and a zesty herb dressing. Perfect for a light appetizer or a quick, healthy side dish, this salad is bursting with vibrant flavors and colors and is ready in just 10 minutes.
Ingredients
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of pepper
Salad
- 1 cucumber, peeled, fork-scored, thinly sliced, then diced
- 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, cut into quarters
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, cubed or torn into bite-sized pieces
- ½ large red onion, chopped into small pieces
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper until well combined to create a flavorful herb dressing.
- Prepare the Vegetables and Cheese: Peel the cucumber and use a fork to score it lightly, then thinly slice. Dice the sliced cucumber into bite-sized pieces. Quarter the cherry tomatoes. Chop the red onion into small pieces. Cube or tear the fresh mozzarella into bite-sized chunks.
- Combine the Salad: In a large salad bowl, add the diced cucumber, quartered cherry tomatoes, chopped red onion, and fresh mozzarella pieces.
- Toss and Serve: Pour the herb dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together to evenly coat the vegetables and cheese with the dressing. Serve immediately for the freshest taste.
Notes
- For extra freshness, chill the salad for 10-15 minutes before serving.
- Use fresh mozzarella for the best texture and flavor.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste preferences.
- For a vegan version, substitute fresh mozzarella with a plant-based cheese alternative.
