Warm days and sunshine beckon us to gather around simple, refreshing dishes that celebrate the season’s bounty. This Cucumber Mozzarella Salad is exactly that kind of superstar: a delightful mix of crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and pillowy mozzarella, all tossed in a zesty, balsamic-based dressing. With each forkful, you’ll experience a burst of freshness that’s perfect for those lazy afternoons in the garden or impromptu backyard get-togethers. There’s something almost meditative about slicing through a cool, firm cucumber and releasing its subtle, watery crunch—especially when you know it’s about to share the stage with vibrant cherry tomatoes and ribbons of sweet red onion.
I still remember the first time I whipped this up for a summer brunch; my friends practically cheered when they saw the bowl glistening in the morning light. The freshness of English cucumbers, the tang of balsamic vinegar, and the creamy texture of fresh mozzarella balls made this salad feel like a mini celebration in a bowl. With only about 15 minutes of prep and zero cooking time, it’s a beginner-friendly gem that yields about 250 calories per serving—just right for an appetizer or light lunch without any guilt. So grab your favorite large salad bowl and let’s dive into this vibrant dish that’s sure to become a seasonal staple!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CUCUMBER MOZZARELLA SALAD
Before we jump into the steps, let’s get up close and personal with the heroes of this salad. These ingredients work in harmony to deliver crunch, creaminess, and a tangy-sweet finish that dances on your taste buds.
- Cucumbers
Known for their cooling crunch, cucumbers serve as the crisp foundation of this salad. They bring a hydrating freshness that balances the creaminess of the cheese and the zing of the dressing.
- Cherry Tomatoes
Bursting with bright, juicy flavor, cherry tomatoes add pops of sweetness and acidity. Their small size means they’re easy to halve and layer throughout the salad for the perfect bite every time.
- Fresh Mozzarella Balls
Soft, milky, and tender, these little orbs of cheese introduce a luscious creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the firm vegetables. They’re the ultimate comfort element in this light dish.
- Red Onion
Thinly sliced, red onion contributes a subtle sharpness and a gorgeous pop of purple. A small amount adds just the right hint of bite without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Fresh Basil
Chopped fresh basil infuses each forkful with aromatic, peppery-green notes. This herb brightens the overall flavor and adds a fragrant finish.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil
As the base of our dressing, this oil brings a fruity, slightly peppery richness that coats every ingredient and ties the salad together.
- Balsamic Vinegar
Its tangy-sweet complexity elevates the flavor profile, creating a delicious contrast with the olive oil and enhancing the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper
Simple seasoning that allows each ingredient’s true character to shine through. Use them to taste and balance the entire dish.
HOW TO MAKE CUCUMBER MOZZARELLA SALAD
This salad comes together in a few simple yet crucial steps. The key is to prep everything carefully, toss with care, and let the flavors marry for a little while before serving.
1. Start by washing the cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and basil under cold running water. This removes any dirt or residue and ensures a crisp, clean bite. Pat each item dry with a clean kitchen towel to prevent excess water from watering down your dressing.
2. Thinly slice the cucumbers and red onion into even rounds or half-moons for uniform texture. Halve the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls so they nestle perfectly among the cucumber slices. Keep each group of ingredients in its own bowl to stay organized.
3. In a large salad bowl, gently combine the sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, mozzarella, and red onion. Use a soft hand and tossing motion so you don’t bruise the delicate mozzarella or squash the cucumbers.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and slightly emulsified so it clings nicely to the salad.
5. Pour the dressing evenly over the salad mixture in the large bowl. With gentle tosses, ensure every piece of vegetable and cheese is fully coated in the tangy, glossy dressing.
6. Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil on top and give it one last light toss. This step unlocks the basil’s aroma and distributes it evenly.
7. Allow the salad to rest for about 10 minutes at room temperature. This short resting period helps the flavors meld together, turning a simple assembly into a harmonious blend.
8. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature—whichever you prefer. Both options highlight different facets of freshness and flavor.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CUCUMBER MOZZARELLA SALAD
A salad this versatile deserves a variety of pairings and presentations. Whether it’s a casual backyard BBQ or a fancy spring luncheon, these ideas will help you shine as a host.
- Serve it as a colorful side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. The bright greens and reds look stunning on a white platter, and the cool textures provide a refreshing contrast to hot, smoky mains.
- Turn it into a light lunch by scooping the salad into hollowed-out bell pepper halves or avocado shells. This adds a fun twist and extra layers of flavor without adding complexity.
- Present it as part of a Mediterranean-inspired spread, complete with olives, hummus, and warm pita wedges. The creamy mozzarella and tangy dressing fit right in with those rich, earthy flavors.
- For an elegant appetizer, thread the cucumber slices, tomatoes, and mozzarella onto decorative skewers, then drizzle with any leftover dressing. It’s an easy, bite-sized treat for cocktail parties or bridal showers.
HOW TO STORE CUCUMBER MOZZARELLA SALAD
Preserving the integrity of this salad is all about mindful storage. Here are a few methods to keep it tasting fresh and vibrant the next day.
- Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This prevents the vegetables from wilting and the mozzarella from becoming too soggy. Make sure it’s sealed well to lock in the dressing’s aroma.
- If you know you’ll have leftovers, reserve a portion of the dressing separately. Toss it just before serving again to maintain the crispest bite from cucumbers and onions.
- For longer storage, keep the basil unmixed and add it right before serving. The herb will stay greener and more aromatic without getting slimy or brown.
- Avoid freezing this salad, as the high-water content in cucumbers and tomatoes will turn them mushy upon thawing. Instead, focus on refrigerator storage and enjoy within 24 hours for peak freshness.
CONCLUSION
There you have it—a vibrant, easy-to-make Cucumber Mozzarella Salad that feels like the ultimate summer companion. From the first crisp crunch of cucumber to the creamy surprise of fresh mozzarella and the herby brightness of basil, each bite is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together. With just 15 minutes of active prep time, zero actual cooking, and a quick 10-minute rest, you can have a stunning appetizer or light lunch ready in no time. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, a potluck, or just enjoying a quiet afternoon on the patio, this recipe brings a burst of flavor and color to your table.
Feel free to print this article and save it for later—you’ll want to keep this one in your go-to rotation all summer long. Below, you’ll find a FAQ section that answers common questions, and I’d love to hear your thoughts. Did the salad turn out crisp and refreshing? Do you have tweaks or additions you’d recommend? Let me know in the comments—any questions, feedback, or stories from your own kitchen adventures are more than welcome. Happy cooking, and here’s to many more delicious, bright, and carefree salads ahead!
Cucumber Mozzarella Salad
Description
This Cucumber Mozzarella Salad is a delightful mix of crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, all tossed in a zesty dressing. It's the ultimate summer dish that’s simple yet bursting with flavor!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Start by washing the cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and basil under cold running water. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
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Thinly slice the cucumbers and red onion, and halve the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls. Set them aside separately.
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In a large salad bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and red onion. Toss gently to mix the ingredients.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined.
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Pour the dressing over the salad mixture in the large bowl. Toss everything gently to ensure the vegetables and mozzarella are evenly coated with the dressing.
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Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil over the salad and give it one final toss.
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Allow the salad to sit for about 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
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Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature, depending on your preference.
Note
- Use fresh mozzarella for a soft and creamy texture that complements the crisp cucumbers.
- English cucumbers are a great option as they have thin skin and are less watery.
- For added flavor, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes over the salad before serving.
- This salad is a quick and refreshing option for summer picnics and potlucks.
- Feel free to add other fresh herbs like mint or parsley for extra fragrance.
