Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad Recipe

A Cool, Crisp, and Colorful Summer Side Dish

Summer is the season for fresh, no-fuss meals—and when it comes to side dishes that are both refreshing and delicious, nothing beats this Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad. It’s a light, crunchy twist on the classic Italian Caprese, with hydrating cucumber slices tossed with sweet cherry tomatoes, soft mozzarella balls, and garden-fresh basil—all drizzled in olive oil and thick, tangy balsamic glaze.

Whether you’re looking for side dishes for a cookout, non-lettuce salads, or a vibrant veggie-packed option to pair with grilled kabobs, this Cucumber Caprese Salad fits the bill. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and absolutely perfect for hot days when you don’t want to turn on the oven.

🍅 What is Caprese Salad?

Caprese salad, ou Insalata Caprese, is a traditional Italian salad that originated on the Isle of Capri. It’s made from fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil—representing the colors of the Italian flag. This version takes the base idea and adds the cool crunch of cucumber, making it even more hydrating and satisfying as a summer side dish.

Este Cucumber Caprese Salad celebrates simplicity, allowing each ingredient to shine. The flavors are bold yet clean, making it an excellent dish for both casual meals and more elegant spreads.

🛒 Ingredients for Cucumber Caprese Salad

Here’s everything you need to make this healthy and tasty salad:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 large English cucumber (or 2 Persian cucumbers), sliced thinly into half-moons
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (use multi-colored for extra visual appeal)
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), halved if large
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chiffonade

Para o Molho:

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
• Sal e pimenta-do-reinoa gosto

Add-Ins:

• ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ avocado, cubed
• A pinch of red pepper flakes
• Toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for crunch
• A sprinkle of oregano or Italian seasoning

✅ Dica Profissional: Use a mandoline slicer for perfectly even cucumber slices that soak up the dressing beautifully.

🥗 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Slice the Ingredients

• Start by washing and slicing the cucumber into thin half-moons.
• Cut the cherry tomatoes in half.
• Drain the mozzarella balls and halve any that are too large.

Step 2: Prep the Basil

• Tear the fresh basil by hand or cut into thin strips using the chiffonade method. This helps release the oils and aroma.

Step 3: Combine

• In a large mixing bowl, add the cucumbers, tomatoes, and mozzarella.
• Add the basil leaves and gently toss the mixture.

Step 4: Dress the Salad

• Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
• Sprinkle with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Chill & Serve

• Toss gently to combine.
• Serve immediately or refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to cool.

👨‍🍳 Make It a Full Meal

You can easily transform this side dish into a light entrée. Here’s how:

• Add protein: Grilled chicken, seared shrimp, or canned tuna
• Add grains: Toss with cooked quinoa, orzo, or farro for extra bulk
• Add legumes: Chickpeas or white beans offer fiber and texture
• Add greens: Serve over arugula, spinach, or mixed baby greens
• Wrap it up: Stuff into pita pockets or wraps for a lunch-to-go

This makes an amazing lunch side for sandwiches or a light Mediterranean-style bowl when topped with hummus and pita.

🔁 Variations to Try

This salad is extremely adaptable. Try some of these creative spins to mix things up:

🍢 Best Pairings for Cucumber Caprese Salad

This salad is perfect alongside dishes that need something fresh and vibrant on the plate. Here are some meal ideas:

🔥 Grilled Dishes

• Chicken skewers or lamb kabobs
• Grilled shrimp or salmon
• BBQ burgers or veggie patties
• Pork chops with Italian seasoning

🥪 Sandwiches & Wraps

• Turkey avocado sandwich
• Caprese panini
• Chicken Caesar wrap
• Mediterranean hummus wrap

🧀 Potluck & Party Spreads

• Charcuterie boards
• Deviled eggs and finger foods
• Pasta salads and crostini
• Bruschetta and dips

This is truly a potluck side dish that everyone will reach for more than once.

💡 Expert Tips for the Perfect Salad

• Use a high-quality balsamic glaze or make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar until thickened.
• Don’t overdress – use just enough oil and glaze to coat without making the salad soggy.
• Keep cucumbers crisp by salting and letting them sit for 5–10 minutes, then patting dry.
• Use room-temp tomatoes for maximum flavor (cold tomatoes can be bland).
• Make ahead tips: Prep all ingredients and keep separately. Combine and dress just before serving.

📦 How to Store Leftovers

While this salad is best served fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

• Drain excess liquid before storing to avoid sogginess
• Avoid freezing—the cucumbers and tomatoes won’t maintain their texture
• Revive with fresh basil and a small drizzle of olive oil before re-serving

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use balsamic vinegar instead of glaze?

Yes, but it’s thinner and more acidic. To make your own glaze, simmer ½ cup balsamic vinegar with 1 tablespoon of honey over low heat until reduced by half.

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English or Persian?

You can, but be sure to peel and de-seed them to reduce bitterness and excess water.

Is this salad vegetarian and gluten-free?

Yes! It’s naturally vegetarian and gluten-free. To make it vegan, swap the mozzarella with a plant-based cheese or avocado chunks.

How far in advance can I prepare it?

You can prep the ingredients a few hours ahead, but don’t dress the salad until right before serving for the best texture.

🌿 Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Salad

O Cucumber Caprese Salad is one of those dishes that ticks every box: it’s refreshing, colorful, quick, and versatile. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it works as both a casual weeknight side and a polished potluck favorite.

It’s the salad you’ll crave when it’s too hot to cook, the dish you’ll bring to every summer party, and the one your family will ask for again and again. Plus, it’s easy to make your own—with creative spins, exciting textures, and global flavors.

📌 Final Thoughts + Hashtags

Este Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad is a summer essential. Whether you’re searching for a side dish for kabobs, a crisp non-lettuce salad option, or a show-stopping potluck side, this dish brings it all together.

Don’t forget to save, share, and pin this recipe to your favorite board for your next cookout, picnic, or weekday dinner. Your summer menu just got a major upgrade.