1. Does Caprese salad have cucumbers?

Traditionally, a Caprese salad does not include cucumbers. It’s made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, olive oil, and sometimes balsamic. However, adding cucumber is a delicious modern twist. A fresh cucumber Caprese salad adds extra crunch, hydration, and color perfect for warm weather meals.

2. What is the secret to a good Caprese salad?

The key to a great Caprese salad with cucumber is using high-quality, fresh ingredients . Ripe tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, crisp cucumbers, fragrant basil, and premium olive oil make all the difference. Don’t forget to season with flaky sea salt and pepper just before serving.

3. Why is it called a Caprese salad?

The name “Caprese” comes from Capri , an island in southern Italy. The salad’s red (tomato), white (mozzarella), and green (basil) colors represent the Italian flag. While the original doesn’t include cucumber, the fresh cucumber Caprese salad is a refreshing take that still honors the classic roots.

4. How do you keep cucumber salad from getting soggy?

To prevent sogginess in your fresh cucumber Caprese salad , try these tips: Salt cucumbers and let them sit, then pat dry Store all ingredients separately and assemble just before serving Add basil and dressing last Always dry ingredients with a paper towel before combining

Top 1 Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad – Ultimate Summer Dish

Name: Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 medium English cucumbers, thinly sliced; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls (or torn fresh mozzarella); 1 handful fresh basil leaves, torn; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional); Sea salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Description

This fresh cucumber Caprese salad is the perfect mix of crisp cucumber, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, finished with olive oil and balsamic glaze. A refreshing twist on a classic Italian favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

2 medium English cucumbers, thinly sliced

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls (or torn fresh mozzarella)

1 handful fresh basil leaves, torn

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional)

Sea salt, to taste

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Slice cucumbers into thin rounds and place in a bowl.

2. Cut cherry tomatoes in half and set aside.

3. Drain mozzarella and gently pat dry with paper towel.

4. Layer cucumbers, tomatoes, and mozzarella on a serving platter.

5. Tuck basil leaves in between layers for a balanced look.

6. Drizzle olive oil evenly over the top of the salad.

7. Add balsamic glaze if desired.

8. Sprinkle sea salt and black pepper to taste.

9. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor.

Notes

Use Persian cucumbers if English cucumbers aren’t available.

For extra crunch, chill cucumber slices in ice water for 10 minutes before assembling.

Burrata can be used in place of mozzarella for a creamier texture.

Assemble just before serving to prevent sogginess.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 220
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 20mg