Description
This Cucumber Caprese Salad is a refreshing twist on the classic dish, featuring crisp cucumber slices, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil. It’s perfect for a light lunch or as an elegant appetizer at any gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 English or Persian cucumbers
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze or vinegar
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- First, wash your cucumbers thoroughly. For English or Persian cucumbers, you typically don’t need to peel them. If using a standard slicing cucumber, you might choose to peel it to remove any tough skin. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. Alternatively, you can slice them into half-moons or even use a vegetable peeler to create elegant ribbons. Place the prepared cucumber slices in a large mixing bowl or arrange them directly on your serving platter.
- Drain the fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine) very well. If you’re using a larger ball of fresh mozzarella, gently tear it into irregular, bite-sized pieces. Add the mozzarella to the bowl with the cucumbers, or arrange it artfully alongside them on your platter.
- Wash your fresh basil leaves and gently pat them dry with a clean paper towel. Pluck the leaves from their stems. For smaller leaves, you can leave them whole. For larger leaves, gently tear them into smaller, rustic pieces. Add the basil to the bowl with the cucumber and mozzarella, or scatter it over the arranged platter.
- If you're using a bowl, gently toss the cucumbers, mozzarella, and basil together. Drizzle generously with your good quality extra virgin olive oil, ensuring everything is lightly coated. Next, drizzle with your chosen balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze. Season generously with sea salt or kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you're arranging on a platter, drizzle the olive oil first over the ingredients, then the balsamic, and finally season with salt and pepper.
- Once dressed, the Cucumber Caprese Salad is best served fresh. The cucumbers are crisp, the mozzarella is creamy, and the basil is fragrant. Give it a final taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Enjoy the simple, delightful flavors!
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Category: Salad
- Method: No cooking required
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
Keywords: For the ultimate refreshing experience, ensure your cucumbers and fresh mozzarella are well-chilled before assembly. Dress the salad just before serving to prevent it from becoming watery. Quality ingredients matter, so invest in good quality olive oil and fresh mozzarella.