Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad Recipe

I love a recipe that celebrates fresh flavors. This Juicy Cucumber Caprese Salad combines crisp cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and soft mozzarella with a handful of basil leaves. Drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and seasoned with salt and cracked black pepper, it ranks among my favorite refreshing side dishes for summer gatherings.

I’ve been experimenting with a twist on a classic that turned out to be surprisingly refreshing. My Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad is a simple dish thats perfect for those high-energy summer picnics or a laid-back barbecue.

I thinly sliced 2 large cucumbers and layered them with either 3 thickly sliced tomatoes or some juicy, halved cherry tomatoes, then added up chunks of 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese. Fresh basil leaves are scattered throughout the dish along with a drizzle of 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil.

Season it up with salt and some freshly cracked black pepper, and if you’re feeling adventurous, a little balsamic glaze drizzle really elevates the experience. I love how this salad makes for a healthy side that’s quick to put together and works well as a salad for a cookout or even as an Easter cold side at lunch.

Its vibrant flavors and simplicity are sure to catch your eye and taste buds.

Why I Like this Recipe

I like this recipe for a bunch of reasons. First off, I love how it makes me feel like I’m eating a burst of summer in every bite. The crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes mixed with fresh basil really give it a bright, refreshing vibe that makes hot days so much better.

Also, I really dig how simple it is to put together. Even if I’m in a rush, I can whip it up without a ton of mess or fancy skills. I like that I can just slice up a few veggies, toss in some mozzarella, and drizzle olive oil all over it. It’s perfect for when I need a quick meal or a tasty side for a BBQ.

Lastly, I appreciate how the flavors all work together. The creamy mozzarella, tangy balsamic glaze (if I decide to use it), and the crunchy veggies make every bite different but balanced. It’s not too heavy, but still super satisfying, and I can see myself making this salad again and again.

Ingredients

• Crisp cucumbers add refreshing hydration and fiber, making the salad light and crunchy.
• Juicy tomatoes provide vitamins and tanginess that balance and brighten the dish perfectly.
• Fresh mozzarella supplies wholesome protein and creaminess, adding a rich, indulgent taste to every bite.
• A generous basil handful offers aromatic freshness and a hint of spicy herb flavor.
• Extra virgin olive oil contributes healthy fats and a velvety texture, naturally enhancing overall taste.
• Optional balsamic glaze adds a sweet tang that complements and elevates all ingredients equally.
• A dash of salt and cracked pepper boosts the flavors perfectly without overpowering freshness.

Ingredient Quantities

• 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 3 medium tomatoes, sliced (or 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved)
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced or cubed
• A handful of fresh basil leaves
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
• Optional: Balsamic glaze, for drizzling

How to Make this

1. Start by washing your cucumbers, tomatoes and basil leaves really well. Then, slice the cucumbers thinly so they lay nicely on your plate.

2. If you’re using medium tomatoes, slice them into rounds. If you have cherry tomatoes, just slice them in half.

3. Next, cut your fresh mozzarella cheese into slices or cubes, whichever you prefer.

4. Arrange a layer of cucumber slices on your serving dish and then top them with a layer of tomato slices.

5. Now, evenly scatter the mozzarella pieces over the tomatoes and cucumbers.

6. Tear the basil leaves into smaller pieces and sprinkle them on top of the salad.

7. Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil all over the salad, making sure every bite gets a little flavor boost.

8. Add a pinch of salt and a good grind of fresh cracked black pepper to taste.

9. If you like a touch of sweetness and tang, drizzle some balsamic glaze over the entire salad.

10. Give everything a gentle toss so the flavors mix together, then serve it up immediately and enjoy!

Equipment Needed

1. Colander to wash your cucumbers, tomatoes and basil leaves
2. Cutting board to slice the veggies and cheese
3. Chef’s knife for cutting cucumbers, tomatoes, basil, and the mozzarella
4. Measuring spoons for the extra virgin olive oil and salt
5. A large serving dish or salad bowl to layer and toss the salad
6. Salad tongs or a large fork and spoon to gently mix all the ingredients together

FAQ

Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• For the cucumbers, you can use thinly sliced zucchini or even peeled jicama if you want a slightly different crunch
• If you dont have medium tomatoes, ripe heirloom tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes (rehydrated in a little water) work great
• Instead of fresh mozzarella, try burrata for extra creaminess or even a mild feta for a twist in flavor
• Not a basil fan? Fresh mint or even arugula can be used to give a lively, peppery note
• If extra virgin olive oil isnt available, a good quality avocado oil or grapeseed oil will do the trick

Pro Tips

1. Try using a mandoline or a sharp knife to slice the cucumbers evenly so that every bite really gets that fresh crunch it deserves
2. Chill the mozzarella before you start assembling the salad, this helps keep everything from mixing into a mush when the heat kicks in
3. Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic glaze slowly over the salad instead of dumping it all at once, this way you’ll get a more even flavor without any soggy spots
4. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss a pinch of dried oregano in there along with the salt and pepper for an extra burst of Italian flavor that can really elevate the dish