If you’ve landed here, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Truly. It means so much that you’re joining me in the kitchen—virtually, at least—for this bright and beautiful dish. This Cucumber Caprese Salad is more than just a summer side; it’s the kind of recipe that lifts your spirits with its freshness, color, and simplicity. Right after the name, I promised you versatile, and here’s proof! With juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, crunchy cucumbers, and that heavenly touch of balsamic glaze, this dish is pure sunshine in a bowl.

This one’s for the busy home cooks, the last-minute lunch preppers, and anyone looking to bring something effortless yet impressive to a gathering. Want to make sure you never lose track of it? Subscribe below, and I’ll send this Cucumber Caprese Salad recipe straight to your inbox!

What Is Cucumber Caprese Salad?

The traditional Italian Caprese salad is known and loved for its trio of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil. But what happens when you invite cool, crunchy cucumber to the party? Magic, that’s what!

This version lightens up the classic by swapping out thick tomato slices for halved cherry tomatoes and adding refreshing cucumber slices that provide unbeatable crunch. It’s all tied together with extra virgin olive oil, a drizzle of sweet-tangy balsamic glaze, and plenty of fresh basil.

It’s still Italian in spirit but feels like it just got back from a spa day. Light, vibrant, and satisfying without ever feeling heavy.

Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Caprese Salad

Quick to Make: You’re just 10 minutes away from a beautifully composed salad.
No Cooking Required: Which is just what we all want during hot weather.
Perfect for Any Meal: Works as a side, light main, or part of a picnic spread.
Healthy and Hydrating: Loaded with water-rich cucumbers and nutrient-packed tomatoes.
Gluten-Free & Low-Carb: Fits most dietary lifestyles without compromising flavor.

What Does It Taste Like?

Imagine this: crisp cucumber meets creamy mozzarella, meets juicy-sweet tomatoes, meets fresh, peppery basil—all coated in a luscious olive oil drizzle with a sharp-sweet balsamic glaze that ties everything together. Each bite is a beautiful contrast of textures and flavors: soft, crunchy, juicy, creamy, fresh, and tangy. It’s not just a salad. It’s an experience.

And the smell of fresh basil? Intoxicating.

The Health Benefits

Cucumbers help with hydration and are full of antioxidants.
Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C and the powerful antioxidant lycopene.
Mozzarella offers calcium and protein while keeping the dish satisfying.
Basil has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

This is what guilt-free indulgence looks like. Whole ingredients, big flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to whip up this delicious salad:

1 large English cucumber (or 2–3 Persian cucumbers), thinly sliced
1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or bocconcini), halved
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or thinly sliced
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Additions & Substitutions

Avocado – Adds richness and makes the salad extra satisfying.
Red onion – A few thin slices add a tangy bite.
Burrata – Swap mozzarella for creamy burrata for extra luxury.
White balsamic glaze – Keeps the salad looking light while adding that sweet acidity.
Croutons or grilled bread – Add crunch and make it more meal-worthy.

Tools You’ll Need

Cutting board
Sharp knife
Mixing bowl
Serving platter or salad bowl
Optional: Mandoline slicer for uniform cucumber slices

How to Make Cucumber Caprese Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Slice the cucumber into thin rounds. Halve the cherry tomatoes and the mozzarella balls. Tear or chiffonade the basil (stack, roll, and slice thinly!).

Step 2: Assemble

In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together the cucumbers, tomatoes, and mozzarella. Drizzle in the olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Add Basil

Just before serving, mix in the fresh basil leaves to keep them from wilting and browning.

Step 4: Finish with Balsamic Glaze

Transfer the salad to your serving platter or bowl. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top in a zigzag pattern (go ahead—be a little artsy here!).

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

Give it a quick taste. Need a pinch more salt? A bit more basil? Adjust and serve!

What to Serve with Cucumber Caprese Salad

This salad is wonderfully flexible. Serve it alongside:

Grilled chicken or shrimp – Especially with Mediterranean seasonings.
Steak – The balsamic pairs beautifully with red meat.
Pasta – Particularly lemony or pesto-based pastas.
Crusty bread – Because soaking up the juices at the bottom of the bowl is a must.
On its own – Add avocado or a poached egg and call it lunch.

Tips for Making It Perfect Every Time

Use English or Persian cucumbers – They’re less watery and more flavorful.
Salt the cucumbers lightly and let them sit for a few minutes to release excess moisture.
Use fresh basil only – Dried basil just won’t bring the same vibrant flavor.
Don’t overdress – The salad should be glistening, not swimming.
Add balsamic glaze right before serving to preserve its glossy finish.

How to Store Leftovers

This salad is best the day it’s made, but here’s how to handle extras:

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
The cucumbers may release water over time—just drain and toss before eating.
Do not freeze – The textures won’t survive it.

General Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Skill Level: Easy
Diet: Gluten-free, low-carb, vegetarian

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make it ahead of time?

You can prep all the ingredients a few hours in advance—just wait to combine and dress until right before serving.

Can I use large tomatoes?

Yes, but you’ll want to dice them into bite-sized chunks. Cherry tomatoes are preferable for their sweetness and firmness.

Is this salad keto-friendly?

Yes! It’s low in carbs and fits well into keto and other low-carb diets.

What’s the difference between balsamic vinegar and balsamic glaze?

Balsamic vinegar is thin and sharp, while balsamic glaze is reduced and sweet, perfect for drizzling.

Can I add protein to make it a full meal?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas are great additions.

Conclusion

This Cucumber Caprese Salad is what happens when simplicity meets elegance. It’s a dish you can pull together in minutes, but it feels thoughtful and elevated. It’s vibrant on the plate, refreshing on the palate, and surprisingly versatile. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself to a solo lunch in the sunshine, this salad delivers every time.

I’m kicking myself for not having shot it sooner—it’s that gorgeous and that tasty. And if you’re anything like me, this might just become your go-to summer salad.

More Summer Favorites to Try

If you loved this, here are a few more recipes to brighten your table:

Grilled Peach Caprese Skewers
Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint
Strawberry Basil Balsamic Flatbread
Avocado Corn Salad with Lime Dressing

Share Your Creations!

Made this recipe? I’d love to see how it turned out! Leave a review below and share your photo on Pinterest using the hashtag #mmmrecipes—it totally makes my day seeing your beautiful versions!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

Calories: 180
Protein: 9g
Fat: 13g
Carbs: 8g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 5g