Juicy Cucumber Caprese Salad with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.

Juicy Cucumber Caprese Salad

by

Why Make This Recipe

The Juicy Cucumber Caprese Salad is a perfect dish for warm weather. It combines fresh flavors and vibrant colors that make it visually appealing and delicious. This salad is light, refreshing, and can be made quickly. It’s great as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a light meal. Plus, using simple ingredients makes it easy for anyone to whip up!

How to Make Juicy Cucumber Caprese Salad

Ingredients

  • 2 large cucumbers
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  1. Slice the cucumbers into rounds and place them in a large bowl.
  2. Halve the cherry tomatoes and add them to the bowl.
  3. Cut the mozzarella cheese into bite-sized pieces and add it to the salad.
  4. Tear fresh basil leaves and add them in.
  5. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then season with salt and pepper.
  6. Toss gently to combine.
  7. Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.

How to Serve Juicy Cucumber Caprese Salad

Serve the Juicy Cucumber Caprese Salad as a refreshing starter or a side dish to your main course. It pairs well with grilled meats or seafood. You can also enjoy it on its own for a light lunch. For an extra touch, consider serving it in a pretty bowl and garnishing it with additional basil leaves.

How to Store Juicy Cucumber Caprese Salad

To store the salad, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can keep it for up to 2 days. If you know you will have leftovers, consider storing the ingredients separately, especially the cucumber, to prevent it from becoming soggy.

Tips to Make Juicy Cucumber Caprese Salad

  • Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor.
  • Choose fresh mozzarella for a creamier texture.
  • If you like a little kick, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
  • For added crunch, throw in some chopped bell peppers or radishes.

Variation

You can customize this salad by adding other ingredients like avocado, olives, or different herbs like parsley or oregano. You can also try using different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance, but it’s best to add the vinaigrette just before serving to keep it fresh.

2. Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, the Juicy Cucumber Caprese Salad is naturally gluten-free.

3. What type of cucumbers should I use?

You can use any type of cucumbers, but English cucumbers are great because they are less bitter and have fewer seeds.