Description
This Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad is a refreshing twist on the classic Italian Caprese, combining crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy fresh mozzarella with a flavorful herb and balsamic marinade. Perfect as a light appetizer or side dish, this salad is easy to prepare and bursting with vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade
- 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, and thinly sliced, then diced
- 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, cut into quarters
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella
- ½ large red onion, chopped into small pieces
- Optional: fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper until well combined. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Prepare the Cucumber: Peel the cucumber, then use a fork to scrape the skin to create texture. Thinly slice and dice the cucumber into small pieces and place them in a medium bowl.
- Add Cherry Tomatoes and Onion: Quarter the cherry tomatoes and add them to the cucumber. Chop the red onion into small pieces and add it to the bowl. Omit if you prefer no onion.
- Add Mozzarella: Slice the fresh mozzarella into bite-sized pieces or use pearl mozzarella balls if available. Add them to the bowl with the vegetables, tossing lightly to combine.
- Combine and Marinate: Pour the prepared marinade over the salad ingredients. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated. Let the salad sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to develop before serving.
Notes
- For a more traditional Caprese flavor, add fresh basil leaves as a garnish.
- Use pearl mozzarella for bite-sized convenience and a nice presentation.
- Adjust the amount of balsamic vinegar to taste if you prefer a more tangy salad.
- This salad can be served immediately but tastes best if allowed to marinate for 10 minutes.
- Omit red onion if you prefer a milder flavor or if serving to children.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
