Caprese-Style Cucumber Tomato Salad

🥗 Why You’ll Love This Caprese-Style Cucumber Tomato Salad

When you combine the vibrant, sun-kissed flavors of Italy with the hydrating crunch of cucumbers, you get a salad that’s both comforting and ultra-refreshing. This Caprese-style cucumber tomato salad is the perfect alcohol-free, vegetarian-friendly option that’s easy to prepare, visually stunning, and a guaranteed hit at potlucks, picnics, or weeknight dinners.

It draws inspiration from the traditional Caprese salad — which typically features tomato, mozzarella, and basil — but introduces crisp cucumbers for extra texture and balance.

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🧾 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salad:

• 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved

• 1 large English cucumber, sliced into half-moons

• 1 cup mozzarella pearls (bocconcini), drained

• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chiffonade

• Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

For the Simple Olive Oil Dressing:

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

• ½ teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

• ½ teaspoon honey or agave (optional for sweetness)

• Salt to taste

🧀 Tip: For a dairy-free version, use vegan mozzarella alternatives or omit cheese entirely.

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🍽️ How to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad with Fresh Basil & Mozzarella

Step 1 – Prep the Vegetables

Rinse and dry all produce. Halve the cherry tomatoes and slice the cucumber. You can leave the skin on for extra crunch or peel it for a softer texture.

Step 2 – Toss with Mozzarella

In a large mixing bowl, combine the tomatoes, cucumber, and mozzarella pearls. Add salt and pepper to taste.

🌿 Avoid cutting the basil too early. Freshly torn basil oxidizes quickly, so add it just before serving.

Step 3 – Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, zest, and honey (if using). Season with a pinch of salt.

Step 4 – Combine and Serve

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Garnish with fresh basil right before serving. Serve immediately or chill for 15–20 minutes.

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🍅 Serving Suggestions

This salad is light yet satisfying and pairs well with many dishes:

• Serve with grilled chicken or fish (alcohol- and pork-free)

• Add to a Mediterranean-style picnic spread with hummus, olives, and pita

• Toss with cooked pasta or quinoa to make it a heartier meal

• Top with toasted seeds or croutons for extra crunch

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🥄 Recipe Variations

Add More Veggies:

• Thinly sliced red onion or shallots

• Avocado cubes

• Roasted red peppers

Use Different Cheeses:

• Cubed fresh feta

• Ricotta salata shavings

• Dairy-free mozzarella for vegan option

Try Fresh Herbs:

• Mint or parsley instead of basil

• A pinch of dried oregano for an extra Italian touch

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🌿 Nutrition Benefits

This salad is loaded with vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats:

• Tomatoes: Rich in lycopene, vitamin C, and potassium

• Cucumbers: Great source of hydration and fiber

• Mozzarella: Provides calcium and protein (or use plant-based for dairy-free)

• Olive oil: Heart-healthy monounsaturated fats

It’s also:

• Gluten-free

• Refined sugar-free

• Alcohol-free

• Low-carb and keto-adaptable

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🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

This salad is best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The cucumber may release some water, so stir before serving again.

🕒 If prepping ahead, store the dressing separately and toss just before serving.

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❓FAQs About Caprese-Style Cucumber Tomato Salad

Can I use regular mozzarella instead of pearls?

Yes! Just cut fresh mozzarella into bite-sized cubes or slices. Aim for a soft, fresh style rather than aged cheese.

Is this recipe halal?

Yes. There’s no pork, alcohol, or wine involved. Just be sure your mozzarella is made with vegetarian or halal-certified rennet.

Can I use a different acid instead of lemon juice?

Absolutely. Balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar (alcohol-free) can work well, though they will change the flavor profile slightly.

How can I make this vegan?

Use a plant-based mozzarella alternative (available at most natural food stores) or simply omit the cheese and add avocado for creaminess.

What kind of cucumber is best?

English cucumbers are ideal because they’re seedless and have a mild, sweet taste. Persian cucumbers work great too.

🧡 Final Thoughts

This Caprese-Style Cucumber Tomato Salad is the best of both worlds: the juicy, sweet tang of summer tomatoes, the cool crunch of cucumbers, and the creamy richness of mozzarella, all tied together with fresh basil and lemony olive oil.

It’s quick, healthy, refreshing, and perfect for BBQs, weeknight dinners, or elegant entertaining. And with no alcohol, bacon, or pork, it suits a wide range of dietary needs without compromising on taste.