Name: Fresh and Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 1 tablespoon dried basil; Pinch salt; Pinch pepper; 1 cucumber, peeled, fork-scored, thinly sliced, then diced; 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, quartered; 8 oz fresh mozzarella, cut into bite-sized pieces; ½ large red onion, chopped into small pieces

Description

This Fresh and Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad is a light, refreshing twist on the classic Italian Caprese, incorporating crisp cucumber, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy fresh mozzarella. Perfect for a quick appetizer or a healthy side dish, this salad combines simple ingredients with a zesty homemade dressing of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and herbs for a burst of flavor in just 10 minutes.

Ingredients

Dressing

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon dried basil
Pinch salt
Pinch pepper

Salad

1 cucumber, peeled, fork-scored, thinly sliced, then diced
1½ cups cherry tomatoes, quartered
8 oz fresh mozzarella, cut into bite-sized pieces
½ large red onion, chopped into small pieces

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Instructions

Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper until fully combined to create a flavorful herb dressing.
Prepare vegetables and cheese: Peel the cucumber, score it with a fork, slice thinly, then dice into small pieces. Quarter the cherry tomatoes, chop the red onion finely, and cut the fresh mozzarella into bite-sized cubes.
Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together the diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and fresh mozzarella ensuring even distribution.
Add dressing: Pour the herb dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly without breaking up the mozzarella pieces.
Chill (optional) and serve: For best flavor, refrigerate the salad for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld, or serve immediately as a refreshing side dish.

Notes

For extra freshness, use heirloom cherry tomatoes if available.
You can substitute fresh oregano and basil instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor.
Serve with crusty bread or as a topping for grilled chicken or fish.
This salad is best enjoyed the same day it is made to preserve texture and freshness.
To make it vegan, substitute the mozzarella with a plant-based cheese alternative.