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.