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Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 103 reviews

This Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad is a light and refreshing twist on the classic Italian Caprese, combining crisp cucumber, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy fresh mozzarella. Marinated in a flavorful blend of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and herbs, it makes a perfect easy appetizer or side dish packed with vibrant colors and fresh taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Marinade

  • 2 tbsp olive oil (Colavita extra virgin recommended)
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (aged, good quality)
  • 1 tbsp dried oregano
  • 1 tbsp dried basil (or 3 tbsp fresh chopped basil)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Pinch of pepper

Salad

  • 1 cucumber (peeled, fork-scored, sliced thinly, then diced into 1/2-inch pieces)
  • 1½ cups cherry tomatoes (quartered)
  • ½ large red onion (finely chopped, optional for milder flavor)
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella (cherry-sized balls halved or small torn pieces)
  • Optional: fresh basil leaves (torn or chiffonaded for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon dried oregano, 1 tablespoon dried basil (or fresh basil), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are fully combined. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld while preparing the salad.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables: Peel the washed cucumber, then use a fork to scrape up and down its skin several times to create a textured surface. Slice the cucumber thinly before dicing into 1/2-inch pieces. Place the diced cucumber into a medium-sized bowl.
  3. Add the Tomatoes and Onion: Quarter the cherry tomatoes and add them to the bowl with the diced cucumber. Finely chop the red onion and add it as well, if using, to add a mild onion flavor. Mix gently to combine.
  4. Add the Mozzarella: Slice or tear the fresh mozzarella into bite-sized pieces or halve the pearl-sized mozzarella balls. Add the cheese to the bowl, sprinkling evenly over the vegetables. Toss gently to distribute all ingredients evenly.
  5. Combine and Marinate: Pour the prepared marinade over the salad ingredients. Mix thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated with the flavorful dressing. Allow the salad to rest for about 10 minutes before serving to develop and merge the flavors beautifully.

Notes

  • You can substitute fresh basil in the marinade and as garnish for a more aromatic and fresh herbal flavor.
  • The red onion is optional; omit if you prefer a milder salad without onion sharpness.
  • Use aged balsamic vinegar for a richer and sweeter flavor profile in the marinade.
  • Letting the salad marinate for at least 10 minutes enhances the blend of flavors but avoid longer than 30 minutes to keep cucumber crisp.
  • This salad is best served fresh on the same day it is made.

Keywords: Cucumber Caprese Salad, Fresh Caprese, Italian Salad, No Cook Salad, Healthy Salad, Fresh Mozzarella Salad, Summer Salad, Easy Salad

Find it online: https://tastewithamy.com/fresh-cucumber-caprese-salad-recipe/