This Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad is the ultimate light and refreshing dish for warm days. Juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and crunchy cucumbers are tossed with a simple balsamic dressing that brings everything together.
It’s easy to make, delicious to eat, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Why You’ll Love This Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad
Quick to make – ready in under 15 minutes
No cooking required – ideal for hot days
Fresh and flavorful – bursting with summer produce
Simple ingredients – pantry and fridge staples
Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly
Perfect side dish for barbecues, picnics, or light lunches
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Cucumber – peeled, scored with a fork for texture, and diced
Cherry tomatoes – sweet and juicy, quartered
Fresh mozzarella – either diced or mini mozzarella balls
Red onion – finely chopped for a touch of sharpness
Olive oil – smooth base for the dressing
Balsamic vinegar – adds tangy richness
Dried oregano and basil – Italian herbs that bring depth
Salt and black pepper – to season and balance flavors
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use English cucumbers for extra crunch and fewer seeds
Pat mozzarella dry before dicing to prevent excess moisture
Taste your dressing before adding – some balsamic vinegars are sweeter
Dress the salad right before serving for maximum freshness
Score cucumber skin with a fork before peeling for a pretty presentation
How to Make Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad
Prepare the dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Chop the veggies
Peel the cucumber, score it with a fork, then dice into bite-sized pieces.
Quarter the cherry tomatoes and finely chop the red onion.
Combine ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and diced mozzarella.
Add the dressing
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
Serve
Enjoy immediately for best texture, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
What to Serve It With
Grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon
Pasta dishes like spaghetti or lasagna
BBQ favorites like burgers and sausages
As a light lunch with crusty bread
Alongside antipasto platters or charcuterie boards
Variations / Substitutions
Use heirloom tomatoes for colorful variation
Swap fresh mozzarella for burrata for extra creaminess
Add avocado slices for richer texture
Top with fresh basil leaves for more authentic Caprese flavor
Drizzle with white balsamic vinegar for a lighter, less tangy twist
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days
Best enjoyed fresh: Vegetables will release juices as they sit
Do not freeze: Fresh vegetables and cheese don’t freeze well
Toss gently before serving again if stored
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but keep the dressing separate until just before serving for the best texture.
What type of cucumber should I use?
English or Persian cucumbers are ideal for minimal seeds and extra crunch.
Can I use different cheese?
Yes, burrata or feta are great alternatives if mozzarella isn’t available.
How can I prevent a watery salad?
Pat dry the cucumber and mozzarella thoroughly before mixing.
Is it vegan?
You can make it vegan by using plant-based mozzarella.
What’s a good substitute for balsamic vinegar?
White balsamic or red wine vinegar work well if you want a lighter dressing.
Can I add more herbs?
Absolutely! Fresh basil, mint, or parsley would be great additions.
Final Thoughts
This Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad is everything you want in a summer dish—light, refreshing, and packed with vibrant flavors.
It’s so simple yet so satisfying, making it the perfect choice for everything from busy weeknights to festive gatherings.
Full Recipe Card
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon dried basil
Pinch of salt
Pinch of black pepper
1 cucumber, peeled, fork-scored, and diced
1½ cups cherry tomatoes, quartered
8 oz fresh mozzarella, diced or use pearls
½ large red onion, finely chopped
Instructions
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
In a large bowl, combine cucumber, tomatoes, mozzarella, and red onion.
Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently.
Serve immediately or chill for up to 2 hours before serving.
