This Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad is a cool, crisp take on the classic Italian favorite. Juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil come together in a simple balsamic and olive oil dressing that’s light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor. It’s the perfect summer salad—beautiful, healthy, and ready in just minutes.
Whether served as a side dish, appetizer, or light lunch, this cucumber version of Caprese salad delivers everything you love about the original—with an extra crunch that keeps it vibrant and refreshing. It’s colorful, flavorful, and pairs beautifully with grilled meats or pasta dishes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Caprese salads are all about simplicity and fresh ingredients. Here’s what makes this one shine and how you can make it your own:
Cucumbers: Use English or Persian cucumbers for their tender skin and crisp texture. Regular cucumbers work too—just peel and seed them for the best result.
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they add color and freshness. Grape or Roma tomatoes, cut into chunks, are great alternatives.
Fresh Mozzarella: Mozzarella pearls or small balls (bocconcini) make tossing easy. You can also cube a larger mozzarella ball.
Fresh Basil: The signature flavor of Caprese—tear leaves instead of chopping to preserve aroma and color.
Olive Oil: Use extra-virgin olive oil for the richest, fruitiest flavor. It ties all the ingredients together.
Balsamic Glaze: Sweet and tangy, it elevates the salad with depth and a touch of richness. Regular balsamic vinegar or homemade reduction can also be used.
Seasoning: A sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper enhances all the bright, fresh notes.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Cutting board and knife
- Large mixing bowl
- Small whisk or spoon for dressing
- Tongs or serving spoons
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Avocado Caprese: Add diced avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
- Greek-Inspired: Mix in Kalamata olives and a pinch of oregano for Mediterranean flair.
- Spicy Caprese: Sprinkle with red pepper flakes or drizzle with chili-infused oil for a kick.
- Pasta Caprese: Toss with cooked pasta (like rotini or penne) to turn it into a hearty side dish.
- Vegan Version: Replace mozzarella with cubed tofu or vegan mozzarella.
How to Make Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large cucumbers, sliced into thin rounds or half-moons
- 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella pearls (or cubed mozzarella)
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (plus extra for drizzling)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
About 10–12 minutes from start to finish. No cooking required—just chop, mix, and serve.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the produce
Slice cucumbers and halve the tomatoes. Tear fresh basil leaves into smaller pieces. Pat cucumbers dry if they release too much water.
2. Combine the salad
In a large mixing bowl, add cucumbers, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Toss gently to combine.
3. Add the dressing
Drizzle olive oil and balsamic glaze over the salad. Season lightly with salt and black pepper. Toss again to evenly coat everything.
4. Serve and garnish
Transfer to a serving bowl or platter. Add a final drizzle of balsamic glaze and a few fresh basil leaves on top for presentation.
Pro Tips for Best Texture & Taste
- Use fresh ingredients: The simpler the salad, the more freshness matters—especially for basil and mozzarella.
- Don’t overdress: Start with a light drizzle of olive oil and glaze—too much can make the salad soggy.
- Chill before serving: Let it rest in the fridge for 10–15 minutes so flavors meld and the salad is extra refreshing.
- Add salt last: Salt draws water from cucumbers and tomatoes—add it just before serving to keep the salad crisp.
- Homemade glaze: Simmer ½ cup balsamic vinegar until reduced by half for a quick, rich homemade version.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients a few hours ahead, but don’t add salt or dressing until just before serving to prevent excess moisture.
What’s the best mozzarella to use?
Fresh mozzarella pearls are perfect for easy serving, but if you prefer bolder flavor, use thick slices from a mozzarella ball and layer them for a traditional Caprese presentation.
How long will leftovers last?
This salad tastes best fresh but will keep for about 24 hours in an airtight container in the fridge. The cucumbers may soften slightly by the next day.
What can I serve it with?
It pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, steak, seafood, or pasta dishes. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the dressing for a light summer meal.