Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad

If you’re looking for a refreshing dish that’s quick to whip up, then this Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad is just what you need! This salad is a delightful mix of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and the vibrant flavor of fresh basil. It’s one of my go-to recipes for busy weeknights or when hosting family gatherings. The best part? It takes only 10 minutes to prepare!

Whenever I make this salad, it never fails to impress. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled chicken or just enjoying it on its own, this easy cucumber mozzarella salad is always a hit. It’s light, fresh, and perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just ten minutes of prep time, you can have a fantastic side dish ready in no time!
• Deliciously Fresh: The combination of crispy cucumbers and creamy mozzarella creates a flavor explosion that is simply irresistible.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the ingredients to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the colorful ingredients and mild flavors, making it an excellent choice for family meals.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld together in the fridge for an even tastier experience!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad uses simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Salad

• 1/2 english cucumber (cut into quarters lengthwise and sliced)
• 3 cups halved cherry tomatoes
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (or 1 cup diced fresh mozzarella)
• 1 large diced avocado
• 1/3 cup chopped basil leaves

For the Dressing

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 clove garlic (peeled and either pressed or grated)
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

One of the best things about this salad is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up with these tasty variations:

• Add protein: Toss in some chickpeas or grilled chicken for extra heartiness.
• Change up the cheese: Try feta or ricotta for a different flavor twist.
• Spice it up: Add some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a kick.
• Herb substitutions: Experiment with parsley or cilantro if basil isn’t your favorite!

How to Make Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by washing all your fresh produce. Slice the cucumber into quarters and then cut those slices into manageable pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes so they burst with juice when you take a bite. Dicing an avocado adds creaminess while keeping everything light and refreshing.

Step 2: Combine Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, diced avocado, and chopped basil. Gently toss these together to avoid smashing the avocado while ensuring every ingredient gets mixed well.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, pressed garlic, sea salt, and black pepper. This dressing not only enhances all those beautiful flavors but also brings everything together beautifully.

Step 4: Dress Your Salad

Pour the dressing over your salad mixture. Give it another gentle toss to coat all the ingredients evenly. Letting it sit for a few minutes allows those flavors to mingle even more.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad immediately for maximum freshness! If you’re making it ahead of time, store it in the fridge without dressing until you’re ready to serve. This way, everything stays crisp and delicious!

I hope you enjoy making this easy cucumber mozzarella salad as much as I do! It’s sure to become one of your favorites too!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad

Making this salad is a breeze, but a few tips can elevate it from good to spectacular!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and high-quality mozzarella make all the difference in flavor. The fresher your ingredients, the tastier your salad will be.

• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to chill for at least 15 minutes before serving enhances the flavors as they meld together. A cool salad is especially refreshing on a warm day!

• Experiment with herbs: While basil is a classic choice, feel free to mix in other herbs like parsley or mint for an extra burst of freshness. This keeps your salad exciting and varied.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so don’t hesitate to tweak the salt and pepper levels according to your liking. This personalized touch makes every bite just right for you!

• Make it ahead: You can prep the ingredients a few hours in advance and toss them together right before serving. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to enjoy it to avoid sogginess.

How to Serve Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad

This salad not only tastes great but also looks stunning on any table. Here are some fun ways to present it!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle some additional chopped basil or parsley on top for a vibrant splash of color and flavor.
• Lemon zest: A light grating of lemon zest adds a bright aromatic note that enhances the overall dish.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers seasoned with herbs complement the freshness of the salad beautifully.
• Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa mixed with sautéed vegetables makes a hearty side that pairs perfectly with the lightness of the salad.
• Pita Chips with Hummus: Crunchy pita chips served with creamy hummus provide a delightful texture contrast while keeping things light and healthy.
• Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and beans offer both a pop of color and added nutrition, making them an excellent companion.

With these tips and serving ideas, your Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad is sure to impress friends and family alike! Enjoy creating this delicious dish!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad is perfect for meal prep! It’s refreshing, satisfying, and keeps well in the fridge, making it an ideal choice for busy days. Here’s how to store it to keep it fresh:

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover salad in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If possible, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• This salad is not suitable for freezing due to the moisture content of cucumbers and tomatoes, which can become mushy when thawed.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat this salad! Enjoy it cold straight from the fridge for a refreshing snack or side dish.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad.

Can I make this Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare all the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately. Just combine them right before serving for the best taste and texture.

What variations can I make with this Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad?

Feel free to add other ingredients like bell peppers, olives, or even chickpeas for added protein. You can also swap out basil for parsley or mint based on your preference!

How long does Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this salad will last up to 3 days. Just remember that the sooner you eat it, the fresher it will taste!

Can I use different types of cheese in this salad?

Yes! While mozzarella is delicious, you can substitute it with feta or goat cheese for a unique twist on flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad! It’s a delightful dish that brings together fresh flavors while being simple to prepare. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch or serving it at a gathering, it’s sure to be a hit. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your own twists and experiences with this recipe!