Description
This Cucumber Caprese Salad is a refreshing twist on the classic Caprese, featuring crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, all tossed in a tangy balsamic marinade. Quick to make and packed with fresh, vibrant flavors, this salad is perfect as a side dish, light meal, or picnic treat.
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp dried basil
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of black pepper
For the Salad:
- 1 cucumber, peeled, fork-scored, thinly sliced, then diced
- 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella
- ½ large red onion, chopped (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, balsamic vinegar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Peel, score, slice, and dice the cucumber. Add to a bowl.
- Add Tomatoes and Onion: Quarter cherry tomatoes and add to the cucumber. Add chopped red onion if desired.
- Prepare the Mozzarella: Slice fresh mozzarella into bite-sized pieces and add to the bowl.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the marinade over the salad and gently toss to coat.
- Let It Sit: Allow the salad to sit for 10 minutes to meld flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil, if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate before serving.
Notes
- Add Protein: Enhance with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
- Substitute Vinegar: Experiment with red wine vinegar or lemon juice for varied flavors.
- Vegan Version: For a vegan twist, omit mozzarella or use plant-based cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad, Light Meal
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 245 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
