Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad

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This Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad is everything you want in a refreshing, crisp side dish. It brings together the cool crunch of cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fragrant basil in a bright balsamic herb dressing that sings with flavor. Whether you’re entertaining friends or just making a light lunch, this dish is a colorful crowd-pleaser.

With no cooking involved and only a handful of ingredients, this salad is an easy win on busy days or warm afternoons. It’s also a brilliant make-ahead option that only gets better as it soaks up the tangy dressing. Every bite delivers a balance of textures and tastes: cool, creamy, tangy, and sweet.

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What Kind of Mozzarella Should I Use?

For this salad, fresh mozzarella balls (also called bocconcini or ciliegine) are perfect. Their mild flavor and soft texture soak up the balsamic dressing wonderfully. You can use a larger ball of fresh mozzarella cut into chunks if needed, but the small pearls give the dish a more refined and uniform look.

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Ingredients for the Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad

Cucumbers
Their fresh crunch is a natural partner to creamy mozzarella and juicy tomatoes.

Cherry Tomatoes
Sweet, tart, and juicy—these bring a burst of color and flavor.

Fresh Mozzarella Balls (Ciliegine)
Soft, creamy, and perfectly bite-sized, they round out the salad beautifully.

Red Onion
Thinly sliced for a subtle sharpness that balances the sweetness of tomatoes.

Fresh Basil Leaves
Torn or whole, basil adds a bold, aromatic note that screams summer.

Olive Oil
Use a good-quality extra virgin olive oil for richness and smoothness.

Balsamic Vinegar
Adds a tangy depth and slight sweetness that pulls everything together.

Salt, Pepper & Red Pepper Flakes
Just the right amount to enhance and wake up the flavors.

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How To Make the Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad

Step 1: Prep the Veggies

Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds and halve the cherry tomatoes. Thinly slice the red onion and set everything aside in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Add the Mozzarella

Drain the mozzarella balls and gently pat them dry. Add them to the bowl with the prepped veggies.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small jar or bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

Step 4: Toss It All Together

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Finish with Basil

Tear the fresh basil leaves over the salad just before serving to keep them vibrant and aromatic.

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How to Serve and Store This Salad

This salad is best served slightly chilled and is perfect as a side to grilled meats, pastas, or sandwiches. It can also stand alone as a light meal, especially in warmer months.

If making ahead, hold off on adding the basil until just before serving to keep it fresh. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors continue to develop overnight, making it even tastier the next day.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

Yes, just make sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces. Cherry tomatoes tend to be sweeter and less watery, which is why they’re preferred.

What kind of cucumber works best?

English or Persian cucumbers are ideal because they have thinner skin and fewer seeds.

Can I substitute the mozzarella?

Sure! Feta or burrata would be great alternatives, though they bring a different flavor and texture.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but wait to add the basil until serving. The rest can be mixed and chilled up to a day in advance.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

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Want More Salad Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Salad for a sweet and fruity treat.
• Super Crunch Salad if you’re craving bold texture and flavor.
• Honeycrisp Broccoli Salad for a refreshing veggie-packed option.
• Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding if you’re in the mood for dessert after.
• Refreshing Chili Lime Pineapple Cucumber Sticks for more cucumber inspiration.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest salad board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add avocado? Try a flavored vinegar?

I love hearing how others bring their own twist to my recipes. Got questions? Ask away and let’s make this the go-to summer salad for everyone!

For more fresh ideas, visit my Pinterest board: Life with Nina Recipes

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