Name: Cucumber Caprese Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pc English cucumber; 1 pint tomatoes; 8 oz mozzarella balls; ½ cup basil leaves; 2 tbsp balsamic glaze; sea salt; black pepper; 8 oz uncooked pasta

This delightful cucumber caprese salad combines the refreshing crunch of cucumber with the juicy burst of tomatoes and the creamy goodness of mozzarella. Enhanced by fresh basil leaves and finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze, it’s a perfect appetizer or light meal. Optionally, you can add pasta to make it more filling.

Photos of Cucumber Caprese Salad Recipe

The ingredients for this cucumber caprese salad are mostly common, but you might need to pick up a few specific items. Mozzarella balls and balsamic glaze are not always found in every pantry. The basil leaves should be fresh for maximum flavor. If you're adding pasta, any variety works, but make sure it’s cooked al dente and chilled before mixing.

Ingredients For Cucumber Caprese Salad

english cucumber: Provides a refreshing crunch and mild flavor, complementing the other ingredients.

tomatoes: Choose ripe, juicy varieties like cherry or grape tomatoes for a burst of sweetness.

mozzarella balls: These add a creamy texture and rich flavor, balancing the freshness of the vegetables.

basil leaves: Fresh basil leaves bring an aromatic herbal note to the salad.

balsamic glaze: A sweet and tangy reduction that ties all the flavors together.

sea salt: Enhances the natural flavors of all the ingredients.

black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth to the dish.

uncooked pasta: Optional, but it makes the salad more filling and substantial.

One reader, Doralynn Eggleston says:

This cucumber caprese salad is a refreshing delight! The combination of crisp cucumber, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella is perfect. The balsamic glaze adds a wonderful tangy sweetness. Adding pasta makes it a hearty meal. Highly recommend for a quick, delicious, and healthy dish!

Doralynn Eggleston

Techniques Required for Making Cucumber Caprese Salad

How to cook pasta: Boil water in a generously-salted pot, add pasta, and cook until al dente according to package instructions. How to drain and rinse pasta: Use a colander to drain the cooked pasta and rinse it with cold water until chilled.

How To Make Cucumber Caprese Salad Recipe

Enjoy a filling cucumber Caprese salad recipe that is easy to make with few simple ingredients or mixed it with pasta to make a pasta salad recipe.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1pcEnglish cucumber
1pinttomatoes,cherry or grape, halved
8ozmozzarella balls,or diced mozzarella
½cupbasil leaves
2tbspbalsamic glaze,store-bought or homemade
sea salt
black pepper
8ozuncooked pasta,optional

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cucumber, tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil. Drizzle evenly with 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze then toss to combine.
Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed and add more balsamic glaze if you would like.
Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 1 day.
Optional: If you would like to add in pasta, cook the pasta according to package instructions in a generously-salted pot of boiling water until it is al dente.
Drain and rinse the pasta with cold water in a colander until chilled.
Then stir the pasta into your cucumber salad, adding an extra tablespoon or two of the balsamic glaze plus salt and pepper to taste.

Nutrition

Calories: 276.63kcal
Fat: 9.20g
Saturated Fat: 5.12g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.57g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.57g
Carbohydrates: 34.12g
Fiber: 2.23g
Sugar: 4.35g
Protein: 14.22g
Cholesterol: 29.86mg
Sodium: 426.29mg
Calcium: 219.34mg
Potassium: 323.67mg
Iron: 1.09mg
Vitamin A: 96.46µg
Vitamin C: 8.57mg

Expert Tip for Elevating Your Cucumber Caprese Salad

To enhance the flavor of your basil leaves, gently tear them by hand instead of cutting them with a knife. This helps release their essential oils and prevents bruising, ensuring a fresher taste in your cucumber caprese salad.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Salad Recipe

Pre-chop ingredients: Slice the cucumber, tomatoes, and basil leaves in advance and store them in the fridge.

Use pre-made balsamic glaze: Save time by using store-bought balsamic glaze instead of making your own.

Quick pasta cooling: After cooking, rinse the pasta with cold water to cool it down quickly.

One-bowl method: Mix all ingredients in one large bowl to minimize cleanup time.

Batch cooking: Cook extra pasta and store it for future use in other recipes.

Substitute Ingredients For Cucumber Caprese Salad Recipe

english cucumber - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini has a similar texture and mild flavor, making it a good replacement in salads.
tomatoes - Substitute with roasted red peppers: Roasted red peppers provide a sweet and slightly smoky flavor that complements the other ingredients.
mozzarella balls - Substitute with feta cheese: Feta cheese adds a tangy and creamy texture, offering a different but delightful taste.
basil leaves - Substitute with mint leaves: Mint leaves provide a refreshing and aromatic flavor that pairs well with the other salad components.
balsamic glaze - Substitute with lemon vinaigrette: Lemon vinaigrette adds a zesty and tangy flavor, enhancing the freshness of the salad.
sea salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has a similar texture and flavor, making it a suitable alternative.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a milder and slightly different flavor profile, but still provides the necessary seasoning.
uncooked pasta - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa adds a nutty flavor and a different texture, making the salad more nutritious and interesting.

How to Beautifully Present Your Caprese Salad

Use a pristine white plate: Choose a large, flat, white plate to make the vibrant colors of the cucumber, tomatoes, and basil leaves pop against the clean background.
Arrange the ingredients artfully: Slice the english cucumber into thin rounds and halve the tomatoes. Create a circular pattern with alternating slices of cucumber and tomatoes, placing mozzarella balls strategically in between.
Highlight the basil leaves: Tear the basil leaves by hand to release their aroma and scatter them delicately over the cucumber and tomatoes. Ensure they are evenly distributed for a balanced look.
Drizzle balsamic glaze artistically: Use a squeeze bottle to drizzle the balsamic glaze in a zigzag or circular pattern over the salad. This adds a touch of elegance and ensures even distribution.
Season with precision: Lightly sprinkle sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper over the salad. Use a fine sea salt to avoid large, distracting crystals.
Incorporate pasta thoughtfully: If adding pasta, mix it with the salad just before plating. Ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the balsamic glaze and seasonings. Place a small, neat mound of pasta in the center of the plate, surrounded by the cucumber and tomatoes.
Garnish with microgreens: Add a final touch of sophistication by garnishing the salad with a few sprigs of microgreens. This adds a fresh, vibrant element and enhances the visual appeal.
Serve immediately: Ensure the salad is served fresh to maintain the crispness of the cucumber and the integrity of the mozzarella balls.

Essential Tools for Making a Delightful Caprese Salad

Large mixing bowl: To combine the cucumber, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
Cutting board: For slicing the cucumber and tomatoes.
Chef's knife: To cut the cucumber and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
Colander: To drain and rinse the cooked pasta with cold water.
Measuring cups: To measure the basil leaves and balsamic glaze.
Measuring spoons: To measure the balsamic glaze accurately.
Wooden spoon: For tossing the salad ingredients together.
Pot: To cook the pasta in boiling water.
Tongs: To mix the pasta into the salad if you decide to add it.
Serving bowl: To present the salad for serving.
Plastic wrap: To cover and refrigerate the salad if not serving immediately.

Storing and Freezing Cucumber Caprese Salad

This cucumber caprese salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
To keep the salad from getting soggy, store the balsamic glaze separately and drizzle it over the salad just before serving.
If you've added pasta to the salad, it's best to consume it within 1-2 days, as the pasta will continue to absorb the dressing and soften over time.
Freezing this salad is not recommended, as the high water content in the cucumbers and tomatoes will cause them to become mushy and lose their texture when thawed.
If you want to prepare the salad in advance, you can chop the vegetables and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 1 day before combining them with the mozzarella, basil, and balsamic glaze.

Interesting Trivia About Cucumber Caprese Salad

A fun fact about this cucumber caprese salad recipe is that it combines elements of a traditional Italian Caprese salad with the refreshing crunch of cucumber. The addition of pasta makes it a more filling dish, perfect for a light lunch or a side dish at a summer gathering.

Is Making Caprese Salad at Home Cost-Effective?

This cucumber caprese salad recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like english cucumber, tomatoes, and basil leaves are relatively inexpensive, especially when in season. Mozzarella balls and balsamic glaze add a bit to the cost but are still affordable. Adding pasta increases the volume without significantly raising the price. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $10-$15 USD.

Is This Caprese Salad Recipe Healthy?

The cucumber caprese salad recipe is a relatively healthy dish, offering a balance of fresh vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats. The main ingredients – cucumber, tomatoes, and basil – are low in calories and packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Mozzarella provides a good source of protein and calcium, while the balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness without excessive sugar content.

However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make the recipe even healthier:

Opt for whole grain pasta instead of regular pasta to increase the fiber content and provide a slower release of energy
Reduce the amount of mozzarella or choose a lower-fat variety to decrease the overall fat content
Add more vegetables, such as bell peppers or onions, to boost the nutrient profile and fiber content of the dish
Use a homemade balsamic dressing made with extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and herbs instead of store-bought balsamic glaze to control the sugar content and ensure the use of high-quality ingredients

To further enhance the nutritional value of the salad, consider the following suggestions:

Incorporate a handful of nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, to add healthy fats, protein, and a satisfying crunch
Sprinkle some quinoa or chickpeas over the salad for an extra boost of plant-based protein and complex carbohydrates
Add a few slices of avocado for a creamy texture and a dose of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats
Experiment with different herbs, like mint or parsley, to introduce a variety of flavors and additional antioxidants

Editor's Opinion on This Refreshing Caprese Salad

This cucumber caprese salad recipe is a refreshing twist on the classic caprese. The addition of English cucumber adds a crisp texture, while the mozzarella balls and fresh basil provide a creamy and aromatic balance. The balsamic glaze offers a tangy sweetness that complements the tomatoes beautifully. Including pasta as an optional ingredient makes it versatile, turning it into a more substantial dish. Overall, it's a simple yet elegant salad perfect for summer gatherings.

Enhance Your Cucumber Caprese Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks: Imagine dipping warm, garlic-infused breadsticks into a pool of olive oil and balsamic vinegar. The crunchy exterior and soft, fluffy interior will perfectly complement the refreshing notes of your cucumber caprese salad.

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken: Add a protein punch with grilled chicken marinated in a zesty lemon herb sauce. The citrus tang and herbaceous flavors will elevate the salad's fresh ingredients, making it a more substantial meal.

Roasted Red Pepper Soup: A bowl of roasted red pepper soup can add a warm, comforting element to your meal. The smoky sweetness of the peppers and the creamy texture will contrast beautifully with the crispness of the cucumber and the juiciness of the tomatoes.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon: For a touch of elegance, serve prosciutto-wrapped melon. The salty prosciutto and the sweet, juicy melon create a delightful balance that will enhance the flavors of your cucumber caprese salad.

Stuffed Mushrooms: Imagine biting into mushrooms stuffed with a savory blend of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. These bite-sized delights will add a rich, earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the light and fresh salad.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Caprese Salad

Tomato Basil Bruschetta: Imagine a crispy baguette slice topped with juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy mozzarella. Drizzle with a touch of balsamic glaze for a burst of flavor in every bite.

Watermelon Feta Salad: A refreshing mix of sweet watermelon, tangy feta cheese, and fresh mint. This salad is perfect for a hot summer day, offering a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.

Caprese Stuffed Avocados: Take ripe avocados and fill them with a classic caprese salad mix of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. A drizzle of balsamic glaze ties it all together for a creamy, tangy treat.

Greek Pasta Salad: A vibrant combination of pasta, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, and feta cheese. Tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette, this salad is a Mediterranean delight.

Strawberry Spinach Salad: Fresh spinach leaves paired with sweet strawberries, crunchy almonds, and tangy goat cheese. A light poppy seed dressing adds the perfect finishing touch.

Perfect Main Courses and Desserts to Pair With Caprese Salad

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Elevate your dinner with this succulent Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken. Marinated in a blend of fresh lemon juice, garlic, and a mix of herbs, this dish promises a burst of flavor in every bite. Serve it alongside a bed of roasted vegetables or a refreshing quinoa salad for a complete meal. The grill marks add a delightful charred taste that pairs perfectly with the zesty marinade.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight your taste buds with these colorful Stuffed Bell Peppers. Filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and seasoned vegetables, these peppers are baked to perfection. The melted cheese on top adds a creamy finish that complements the hearty filling. Pair them with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad to round out the meal. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients.

Desserts:

Tiramisu: Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert that combines layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers with a rich mascarpone cream. The top is dusted with cocoa powder, adding a touch of bitterness to balance the sweetness. For a twist, consider adding a splash of coffee liqueur to the espresso for an extra kick. This dessert is best served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Panna Cotta: Panna Cotta is a silky, creamy dessert that originates from Italy. Made with sweetened cream thickened with gelatin, it is often flavored with vanilla. Serve it with a fruit coulis or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a delightful contrast. For an added layer of sophistication, garnish with fresh berries or a sprinkle of crushed pistachios.

Why trust this Cucumber Caprese Salad Recipe:

This cucumber caprese salad recipe is a refreshing twist on a classic favorite, combining the crispness of cucumber with the rich flavors of tomatoes and mozzarella. The addition of basil leaves and balsamic glaze elevates the dish, making it perfect for any occasion. The option to include pasta adds versatility, allowing you to customize it to your liking. Trust this recipe for its simplicity, freshness, and the delightful balance of flavors that will impress your taste buds.

Share your thoughts on the Cucumber Caprese Salad Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section and let us know if you have any tips or variations to enhance this refreshing dish.

FAQ:

How do I keep the cucumber from getting soggy?

I recommend slicing the cucumber and then lightly salting it. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes, then pat it dry with a paper towel. This helps draw out excess moisture and keeps the cucumber nice and crisp.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella balls?

Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use cubed fresh mozzarella, feta, or even goat cheese. Just make sure to adjust the amount to your taste.

How long can I store this salad in the fridge?

You can store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day. After that, the ingredients might start to lose their freshness and texture.

Is it necessary to rinse the pasta with cold water?

Yes, rinsing the pasta with cold water stops the cooking process and cools it down, which is important for this salad. It also helps prevent the pasta from sticking together.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Of course! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, red onions, or even some olives. Just chop them up and toss them in with the rest of the ingredients.