Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad (Printable version)
Crisp cucumber, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella tossed with fresh basil in a balsamic dressing. Ready in 10 minutes.
# Ingredient List:
→ Vegetables
01 - 1 large English cucumber, sliced into thin rounds
02 - 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
→ Dairy
03 - 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), halved
→ Fresh Herbs
04 - 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
→ Dressing
05 - 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
06 - 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (plus extra for drizzling)
07 - 1/2 tsp sea salt
08 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
# How to Make It:
01 - In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls.
02 - Add the torn basil leaves and gently toss to combine.
03 - In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic glaze, salt, and pepper.
04 - Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss lightly to coat.
05 - Arrange on a serving platter and drizzle with extra balsamic glaze if desired. Serve immediately.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- No cooking required, just slicing and assembling
- Works as a side dish, appetizer, or light main
02 -
- This salad doesnt sit well dressed, so serve it within 15 minutes of adding the oil
- The balsamic glaze is different from regular balsamic vinegar, it creates that beautiful dark drizzle
03 -
- Pat your cucumber slices dry with a paper towel if theyre wet, which keeps the dressing from getting watered down
- The best balsamic glaze is the reduction you make yourself, simmering vinegar until it coats a spoon