Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad

If you ask me, Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad is a refreshing dish that elevates any meal or gathering. This salad brings together crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and vibrant basil. It’s perfect for summer barbecues, casual lunches, or as a side dish for dinner parties. The combination of flavors makes it not only delicious but also visually appealing. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this salad in no time.
• Fresh Ingredients: Bursting with fresh vegetables and herbs, this salad is both healthy and flavorful.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a light lunch, side dish, or even as an appetizer—all occasions are suitable!
• Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of flavors appeals to many palates, making it a hit at gatherings.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients like olives or bell peppers to make it your own.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience more efficient and enjoyable, gather the essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Chef’s knife: A sharp chef’s knife allows for precise slicing of vegetables, ensuring even pieces for a better presentation.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface to chop ingredients, reducing the risk of accidents.

Ingredients

For this Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

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

How to Make Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

• Start by washing all the vegetables thoroughly.
• Slice the cucumber into quarters lengthwise and then cut into bite-sized pieces.
• Halve the cherry tomatoes and set them aside.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, add the cucumber pieces and halved cherry tomatoes.
• Add the mozzarella balls (or diced mozzarella) and diced avocado to the bowl.
• Gently toss in the chopped basil leaves.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

• In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, pressed garlic, sea salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 4: Dress the Salad

• Pour the dressing over the salad mixture in the large bowl.
• Toss everything together gently until all ingredients are coated with dressing.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

• Enjoy your Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad right away for maximum freshness!

How to Serve Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad

This Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad is refreshing and versatile, making it perfect for various occasions. Here are some creative ways to serve this delightful salad.

As a Light Lunch

• Pair the salad with whole grain bread or a wrap for a quick meal.
• Serve it alongside a small bowl of soup for a comforting lunch option.

At a Picnic or BBQ

• Pack the salad in a portable container for easy transport.
• Serve it as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or turkey skewers.

For Special Occasions

• Present the salad in an elegant bowl to impress guests.
• Add edible flowers on top for an eye-catching presentation.

As an Appetizer

• Spoon the salad onto individual plates as a starter before the main course.
• Serve with toothpicks for guests to enjoy bite-sized portions.

How to Perfect Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad

To elevate your Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance flavor and freshness.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh mozzarella and ripe tomatoes make a big difference in taste.
• Chill before serving: Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for perfect flavor balance.
• Add protein: Include grilled chicken or chickpeas for added nutrition and heartiness.
• Experiment with herbs: Try adding mint or parsley along with basil for a different flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some delicious options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken pieces grilled to perfection complement the freshness of the salad.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa dish seasoned with herbs adds texture and nutrition.
3. Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread pairs well, providing a satisfying crunch alongside the salad.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until tender bring warmth and flavor contrast.
5. Hummus and Pita Chips: Creamy hummus served with crispy pita chips offers a delightful dipping experience.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and veggies provide a hearty side that’s visually appealing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cucumber mozzarella salad is simple, but some common errors can affect the taste and texture. Here are a few mistakes to avoid:

• Using unripe tomatoes: Unripe tomatoes can be bland and less flavorful. Choose ripe, juicy cherry tomatoes for the best taste.
• Overdressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can overpower the fresh ingredients. Start with a little dressing and add more as needed.
• Cutting vegetables unevenly: Unevenly cut veggies can lead to inconsistent bites. Aim for uniform sizes for better presentation and texture.
• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting salt and pepper can make your salad taste flat. Season to enhance the flavors in your salad.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Keep the salad separate from dressing until ready to serve to maintain freshness.

Freezing Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad

• It is not recommended to freeze this salad as it may alter the texture of fresh ingredients.

Reheating Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad

• Oven: Not applicable; serve chilled.
• Microwave: Not recommended; enjoy fresh.
• Stovetop: Not applicable; best served cold.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make an Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad?

To make this salad, combine sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, diced avocado, and chopped basil in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then season with garlic, salt, and pepper.

Can I customize my Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad?

Yes! Feel free to add other ingredients like bell peppers or olives for extra flavor and variety.

What is the best way to store Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep dressing separate until serving.

Is Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad healthy?

Absolutely! This salad is packed with fresh vegetables and healthy fats from avocado, making it a nutritious choice.

Final Thoughts

The Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad is not only refreshing but also versatile. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch, it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients. Try it today for a delightful meal!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and ripe avocado, all tossed together with fragrant basil. This salad is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or as a light lunch. It’s not only easy to prepare in just 10 minutes but also packed with wholesome ingredients that make it both nutritious and delicious. Whether served on its own or as a side dish to grilled meats or wraps, this salad is sure to impress with its fresh flavors and appealing presentation.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1/2 English cucumber (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
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 clove garlic (pressed or grated)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Wash all vegetables thoroughly. Slice the cucumber into quarters lengthwise and then into bite-sized pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cucumber pieces, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls (or diced mozzarella), diced avocado, and chopped basil leaves.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, pressed garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture in the large bowl and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
5. Serve immediately for maximum freshness.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: N/A
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 280mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 20mg