Cucumber Caprese Salad (Easy, Fresh & Perfect for Summer)

Some recipes just taste like sunshine — and this Cucumber Caprese Salad is one of them. It’s crisp, colorful, and full of fresh flavors that make it perfect for summer gatherings, backyard barbecues, or even a light lunch.

It’s everything I love in a warm-weather recipe: minimal prep, no cooking, and simple ingredients that shine on their own. Juicy grape tomatoes, crunchy cucumber, creamy mozzarella pearls, and a hint of tangy balsamic — all tossed together in minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & easy — ready in about 10 minutes.
Light & refreshing — perfect for hot days.
Healthy & wholesome — fresh veggies, good fats, and protein.
Versatile — great as a side dish or a standalone salad.

What It Tastes Like

Cool cucumber and sweet grape tomatoes pair beautifully with creamy mozzarella pearls. The olive oil and balsamic vinegar dressing adds a rich tang, while garlic brings just the right hint of flavor.

Ingredients

1 cucumber, sliced into half-moons
1½ cups grape tomatoes, halved
4 oz mozzarella pearls
1 small to medium red onion, thinly sliced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Dash of garlic powder or 1 fresh garlic clove, minced

Tools You’ll Need

Cutting board and sharp knife
Mixing bowl
Spoon for tossing salad

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep veggies: Slice cucumber into half-moons, halve the grape tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion.
Combine: In a large mixing bowl, add cucumber, tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and onion.
Make dressing: Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad. Add garlic powder or minced garlic.
Toss & serve: Gently toss everything until coated. Serve immediately or chill for 15 minutes for extra flavor.

Tips for the Best Cucumber Caprese Salad

Use English cucumber for fewer seeds and a sweeter taste.
Add fresh basil for a more traditional Caprese twist.
For extra flavor, let the salad marinate in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

As a side dish for grilled chicken or steak
Alongside crusty bread for a light lunch
With pasta salad for a picnic spread

Storage Instructions

Best eaten fresh the same day.
If storing, keep dressing separate and combine right before serving to prevent sogginess.

FAQ

Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of grape?
Yes! Cherry tomatoes work just as well.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Skip the mozzarella or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.

What kind of balsamic vinegar should I use?
A good-quality aged balsamic will give the richest flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Cucumber Caprese Salad is proof that fresh, simple ingredients can make the most flavorful dishes. It’s crisp, refreshing, and comes together in no time — perfect for summer dinners or a quick weekday side.

If you love fresh salads, you might also enjoy:

Classic Caprese Salad with Fresh Basil
Watermelon Feta Mint Salad
Greek Cucumber Tomato Salad

💬 Made this recipe? Share your salad photos on Pinterest or leave a review — I’d love to see your summer creations!

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

Calories: 130
Protein: 4g
Fat: 9g
Carbs: 7g
Sugar: 4g

Cucumber Caprese Salad (Easy, Fresh & Perfect for Summer)