Cucumber Caprese Salad

Thank you so much for being here — because this Cucumber Caprese Salad is summer simplicity at its best! It’s light, crisp, and full of vibrant flavor. Think of it as a fresh twist on the Italian classic — traditional Caprese gets a cool, crunchy upgrade with sliced cucumbers that make every bite irresistibly refreshing.

Whether you’re hosting a warm-weather dinner, prepping a quick lunch, or looking for the perfect potluck side, this salad delivers in every way. It’s beautiful, easy, and absolutely delicious.

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What Is Cucumber Caprese Salad?

A Caprese Salad is a traditional Italian dish made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. This version adds cool, crisp cucumber into the mix for extra crunch and freshness — and it might just be better than the original!

Tossed in a light balsamic vinaigrette or drizzled with glaze, this variation is just as elegant but with a summery twist that’s ideal for hot days or outdoor meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• ✅ Fresh, healthy, and super hydrating

• ✅ Ready in 10 minutes or less

• ✅ Perfect for summer BBQs, picnics, or weekday lunches

• ✅ Naturally low-carb, gluten-free, and vegetarian

• ✅ A great make-ahead salad that holds up well

What It Tastes Like

It’s light, juicy, and herbaceous — with creamy mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, and cool cucumber in every bite. The balsamic adds a tangy depth, while fresh basil brings it all together with that signature Caprese flavor.

Benefits of This Recipe

• Hydrating from cucumber and tomatoes

• High in vitamins A & C and antioxidants

• Great for light eating or healthy snacking

• Easy to double for larger groups

• No cooking required!

Ingredients for Cucumber Caprese Salad

• 1 large English cucumber (or 2 Persian cucumbers), thinly sliced

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), drained

• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn or thinly sliced

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Tools You’ll Need

• Sharp knife or mandoline slicer

• Cutting board

• Large mixing bowl

• Serving platter or salad bowl

• Small whisk or fork (for dressing)

Ingredient Substitutions & Add-Ons

🥒 Substitutions:

• No mozzarella balls? Use sliced fresh mozzarella or a cubed mozzarella block.

• No cherry tomatoes? Use grape tomatoes or slice a larger heirloom tomato.

• Balsamic glaze alternative: Make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar with a touch of honey or sugar.

🧅 Add-Ons:

• Red onion or shallots for a sharp bite

• Avocado for creamy richness

• Olives for a Mediterranean flair

• Toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for crunch

• Cracked red pepper flakes for subtle heat

How to Make Cucumber Caprese Salad

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Slice and Prep

Slice the cucumber into thin rounds. Halve the cherry tomatoes and drain mozzarella balls. If using larger mozzarella, cut into bite-sized pieces.

2. Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl or platter, combine sliced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella.

3. Add Fresh Basil

Tear or chiffonade (thinly slice) the basil and sprinkle over the salad.

4. Dress the Salad

Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar or glaze. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Toss and Serve

Gently toss to coat everything evenly. Serve immediately or chill for 15–20 minutes to let the flavors meld.

What to Serve With Cucumber Caprese Salad

🍗 Grilled or Roasted Proteins

• Grilled Chicken – Simple lemon herb or balsamic-glazed chicken complements the salad’s lightness.

• Garlic Butter Shrimp – Juicy shrimp add a bit of richness and pair beautifully with tomato and basil.

• Seared Salmon – Fresh and flaky, salmon adds healthy fats and elegance to your plate.

• Prosciutto or Salami – Serve thin slices on the side for a light Italian-inspired lunch or antipasto board.

🍞 Breads & Grains

• Crusty Baguette or Sourdough – Perfect for scooping up salad and soaking up the olive oil and balsamic.

• Garlic Bread or Focaccia – Adds savory depth and is always a crowd favorite.

• Lemon Orzo or Couscous – A small pasta or grain salad on the side pairs beautifully and makes it more filling.

🍝 Pastas & Light Mains

• Pesto Pasta or Pasta Primavera – The herby flavors echo the basil in the salad.

• Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles) – Keep it light and low-carb while doubling down on the freshness.

• Caprese Chicken Pasta – Double down on the flavor theme with a creamy pasta variation.

🥗 Other Fresh Sides

• Watermelon Feta Salad – Sweet, salty, and hydrating — a perfect summer duo with Cucumber Caprese.

• Grilled Vegetables – Zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant bring out the Mediterranean flavors.

• Tomato Basil Soup – Great for transitional seasons or as a starter.

🍷 Drinks to Pair

• Chilled White Wine – Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or a crisp Chardonnay highlight the freshness.

• Rosé or Sparkling Wine – Light, bubbly, and perfect with tomatoes and basil.

• Iced Lemon Water or Cucumber Mint Tea – Refreshing and great for a non-alcoholic option.

Tips for the Best Cucumber Caprese Salad

• 🥒 Use the Right Cucumber

  • English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers are ideal — they have thin skin, fewer seeds, and a milder flavor.

  • No need to peel them, and they hold their crunch beautifully in the salad.

  🔪 Slice Evenly

  • Use a sharp knife or mandoline for thin, even slices of cucumber. It helps the salad look prettier and makes for a better bite.

  • Halve or quarter the cucumber rounds for easier forkfuls if serving in a crowd.

  🍅 Choose Sweet, Ripe Tomatoes

  • Cherry or grape tomatoes work best for a sweet pop of flavor and less juice, which keeps your salad crisp.

  • Cut them in half to prevent rolling and to release just enough juice to mingle with the dressing.

  🧀 Use Fresh Mozzarella

  • Go for mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine) for ease and creaminess.

  • If using a large ball, tear it into rustic chunks for texture and visual appeal.

  🌿 Add Basil at the End

  • Tear basil leaves by hand instead of chopping — it prevents bruising and releases more natural oils.

  • Add basil just before serving to keep it bright and aromatic.

  🫒 Use High-Quality Olive Oil & Balsamic

  • This salad is all about fresh, simple ingredients — so good olive oil and a flavorful balsamic glaze or vinegar make a big difference.

  • If using balsamic vinegar instead of glaze, consider adding a pinch of sugar or honey to balance acidity.

  🧊 Chill Before Serving (Optional)

  • Letting the salad chill in the fridge for 15–30 minutes can help the flavors meld — especially refreshing on hot days!

  🥗 Toss Gently

  • Combine everything with a light hand so the mozzarella doesn’t break down and the cucumbers stay crisp.

Storage Instructions

• 🧊 Refrigerator Storage

  • Best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers:

    • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

    • The cucumbers and basil may soften slightly over time, and the salad may release some liquid (especially if already dressed).

    • Give it a gentle toss before serving, and add a splash of fresh olive oil or balsamic glaze to revive the flavor.

  🕒 Make-Ahead Tips

  • For best texture, prepare ingredients ahead but store separately:

    • Slice cucumbers, tomatoes, and mozzarella and store in individual containers.

    • Keep basil separate or chop just before serving.

    • Mix dressing and refrigerate in a small jar.

    • Toss everything together right before serving to keep the salad crisp and vibrant.

  🚫 Freezing

  • Not freezer-friendly. The cucumbers and mozzarella do not thaw well and will become mushy and watery.

General Info About Caprese Salad Variations

Caprese salad — or Insalata Caprese — is a classic Italian dish celebrating fresh, simple ingredients. Traditionally made with tomato, basil, and mozzarella, it represents the colors of the Italian flag. Modern variations (like this cucumber version) add fun twists while keeping the spirit of the original — fresh, balanced, and bursting with flavor.

Adding cucumber not only stretches the salad, but makes it cooler, crisper, and even more hydrating — perfect for hot summer days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prep the veggies and cheese in advance, then toss with basil and dressing right before serving.

What’s the best cucumber to use?

English or Persian cucumbers are ideal — they’re seedless and have thin skins, so no peeling needed.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Sure! Swap the mozzarella for cubed avocado or a dairy-free cheese alternative.

What if I don’t have balsamic glaze?

You can use a splash of balsamic vinegar with a drizzle of honey or reduce balsamic vinegar on the stove until thickened.

Conclusion

This Cucumber Caprese Salad is proof that simple ingredients can create unforgettable flavor. It’s crunchy, creamy, juicy, and herbaceous — everything a summer salad should be. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard BBQ, packing it for a picnic, or making it your lunch on a sunny afternoon, this salad brings effortless elegance and unbeatable freshness.

And if you love this, don’t miss my Watermelon Feta Salad or Tomato Basil Orzo — both just as easy and full of summer joy!

Show Me Your Salad!

Tried this recipe? I love seeing your creations!
📸 Tag me on Pinterest or leave a review — and share your favorite add-ins or variations!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx. 1 cup)

• Calories: 170

• Fat: 12g

• Carbs: 6g

• Fiber: 1g

• Protein: 8g

• Sugar: 3g

Cucumber Caprese Salad

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• Author: iyma hernandes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Cucumber Caprese Salad is summer simplicity at its best — a cool, crunchy twist on the Italian classic! With creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and crisp cucumber, it’s a refreshing, vibrant side dish perfect for any warm-weather meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 large English cucumber (or 2 Persian cucumbers), thinly sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), drained
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn or thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Slice the cucumber into thin rounds. Halve the cherry tomatoes and drain mozzarella balls. Cut mozzarella into bite-sized pieces if needed.
2. In a large bowl or platter, combine sliced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella.
3. Tear or slice the basil and sprinkle over the salad.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar or glaze. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Gently toss to combine and coat evenly. Serve immediately or chill for 15–20 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use English or Persian cucumbers for the best crunch and presentation. For a dairy-free option, swap mozzarella with avocado. Make ahead by prepping all ingredients and assembling just before serving for freshness.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Italian-Inspired

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 170
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: cucumber caprese salad, summer salad, fresh mozzarella, tomato basil salad, healthy side dish