I used to think caprese salad couldn’t get any better—until I added crisp cucumbers to the mix. This Cucumber Caprese Salad is my summer obsession, especially when tomatoes are sweet and basil is abundant. It’s the kind of dish that disappears at picnics, yet takes barely 10 minutes to throw together.
I first made this for a last-minute BBQ when I realized I’d run out of lettuce. The combination of cool cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella was such a hit that now my friends request it every time. It’s light, refreshing, and tastes like sunshine on a plate—no oven required!
If you love classic caprese but want extra crunch (and a way to stretch those pricey mozzarella balls), this recipe is your answer.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
✅ 10-minute prep – Chop, toss, and serve. Perfect for lazy summer meals.
✅ No cooking needed – Just fresh ingredients and a simple dressing.
✅ Hydrating & light – Cucumbers add a refreshing crunch that plain tomatoes can’t beat.
✅ Crowd-pleaser – Works as a side dish, appetizer, or even a light lunch.
✅ Meal-prep friendly – Pack components separately and assemble last-minute.
Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes (including marinating)
- Yield: Serves 4-6 1x
Description
A refreshing twist on classic caprese, this Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad combines crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella and aromatic herbs in a light balsamic marinade. Perfect for summer gatherings, meal prep, or as a light lunch option that comes together in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
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 (pearls or cubed)
- ½ large red onion, chopped into small pieces
Optional: fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, dried basil, salt and pepper until well combined. Set aside to let flavors meld.
- Prepare cucumber: peel, then drag a fork lengthwise to create grooves. Thinly slice and dice.
- Quarter cherry tomatoes and place in mixing bowl with diced cucumber.
- Finely chop red onion and add to bowl (omit if preferred).
- Add mozzarella pearls or cubed fresh mozzarella to the bowl.
- Pour marinade over salad ingredients and gently toss to coat evenly.
- Let sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to blend before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Notes
– For best texture, use English or Persian cucumbers (no need to peel)
– Make ahead tip: Prep components separately and combine just before serving
– Vegan option: Substitute mozzarella with avocado chunks or vegan cheese
– Storage: Best eaten fresh but keeps refrigerated for 1 day (undressed)
– Serving suggestion: Pair with crusty bread or grilled protein
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Cucumber Caprese, Summer Salad, No-Cook Recipe, Italian Salad, Quick Lunch
The Best Cucumbers for Caprese
English cucumbers (hothouse) are ideal—thin skin, minimal seeds, and no bitterness. No need to peel!
Persian cucumbers are a close second—small, sweet, and extra crisp.
Regular garden cucumbers? Peel them and scoop out the seeds to avoid a watery salad.
Pro tip: Salt cucumber slices and let them drain for 10 minutes to prevent sogginess!
What to Serve With Cucumber Caprese Salad?
This light, refreshing salad pairs perfectly with summer flavors. Here are the best ways to turn it into a meal or complement a spread:
1. Grilled Proteins
- Lemon Garlic Shrimp: Quick to cook and brightens the dish.
- Herb-Marinated Chicken: Juicy and flavorful without overpowering the salad.
- Grilled Salmon: A rich, omega-3-packed pairing.
2. Bread & Carbs
- Crusty Baguette: Soaks up the balsamic dressing beautifully.
- Garlic Bread: For a cozy Italian-inspired combo.
- Pasta Salad: Serve alongside for a picnic-perfect duo.
3. Summer BBQs & Cookouts
- Burgers & Hot Dogs: The salad’s freshness cuts through the richness.
- Grilled Veggies: Zucchini, corn, or asparagus.
- Pulled Pork Sliders: Contrasts the salad’s lightness.
4. Lighter Pairings
- Watermelon Feta Salad: A sweet-and-salty summer match.
- Grilled Peach & Burrata: For a fancy appetizer spread.
- Chilled Soups: Like gazpacho or cucumber soup.
5. Brunch & Lunch Ideas
- Quiche or Frittata: Ideal for a garden-fresh brunch.
- Panini or Wrap: Add grilled chicken for a portable meal.
- Charcuterie Board: Makes it feel like a gourmet appetizer.
Pro Tip: For meal prep, pair with grilled chicken or quinoa to keep lunches fresh all week!
Cucumber Caprese Salad FAQs
Can you put cucumber in caprese salad?
Absolutely! Cucumbers add refreshing crunch and make the salad more hydrating. English or Persian cucumbers work best (no peeling needed). Just pat them dry after slicing to prevent excess water.
What is the secret to a good caprese salad?
- Quality ingredients: Ripe summer tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil
- Texture control: Salt and drain cucumbers (10 mins), pat mozzarella dry
- Timing: Dress just before serving to prevent sogginess
- Temperature: Serve chilled but not ice-cold (let cheese sit out 15 mins first)
What are the ingredients of caprese salad?
Traditional Caprese Ingredients vs. Cucumber Version
| Classic Caprese | Cucumber Caprese Upgrade |
|---|---|
| Tomatoes | Tomatoes + cucumbers |
| Fresh mozzarella | Mozzarella pearls or slices |
| Basil leaves | Basil + optional mint |
| Olive oil | Olive oil + balsamic glaze |
| Salt/pepper | Salt/pepper + red pepper flakes |
What is the best dressing for tomato cucumber mozzarella salad?
Best Dressings for Tomato-Cucumber-Mozzarella Salad
- Simple & Classic:
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- Fresh cracked pepper
- Zesty Lemon-Herb:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice + zest
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- Creamy Avocado (game-changer!):
- Blend 1/2 avocado with 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp lime juice, and basil
Pro Tip: For food safety, always use pasteurized mozzarella if serving pregnant guests!
