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Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad

Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad
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Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad is a light, refreshing summer dish that combines crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, dressed with quality extra virgin olive oil and a tangy balsamic glaze. This easy-to-make, hydrating salad is packed with wholesome ingredients and can be served as a side or light main, perfect for warm weather meals, picnics, and casual entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 2 medium firm cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 1 ½ cups ripe cherry or heirloom tomatoes, halved or cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Fresh basil leaves, about 15-20 leaves, torn

Dairy

  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls or slices

Dressings & Seasonings

  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vegetables: Wash the cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds for a crisp texture. Cut the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces or halves if using cherry tomatoes.
  2. Slice the Mozzarella: Slice fresh mozzarella into similar-sized pieces or use small mozzarella balls, ensuring they complement the size of the vegetables for an even bite.
  3. Assemble the Salad: In a large serving plate or bowl, gently mix cucumbers, tomatoes, and mozzarella. Tear fresh basil leaves and scatter over the top for aroma and flavor.
  4. Dress and Season: Drizzle extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze evenly over the salad. Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, then gently toss everything together to combine.
  5. Serve Immediately: Serve the salad right away to enjoy the freshest flavor and crisp texture.

Notes

  • Use the freshest, highest quality ingredients for the best flavor.
  • Chill cucumbers before serving to enhance the refreshing taste.
  • Slice vegetables and mozzarella uniformly for balanced bites.
  • Season lightly and just before serving to keep cucumbers crisp.
  • Choose premium extra virgin olive oil for noticeable flavor improvement.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day; keep the dressing separate to avoid sogginess.
  • Avoid freezing, as cucumbers and mozzarella do not freeze well and can lose texture.
  • Serve cold or at room temperature; reheating is not recommended.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, caprese salad, fresh mozzarella, summer salad, hydrating salad, easy salad, Italian salad, healthy salad

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/fresh-cucumber-caprese-salad/