Cucumber Mozzarella Salad Recipe

Introduction

This refreshing Cucumber Mozzarella Salad combines crisp cucumber, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and ripe avocado for a burst of fresh flavors. Enhanced with a simple garlic-balsamic dressing and fragrant basil, it’s a perfect light dish for warm days or as a vibrant side.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place the sliced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, diced avocado, and chopped basil leaves into a large serving bowl. Arrange them evenly for an appealing presentation.
2. Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, pressed garlic, sea salt, and black pepper until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.
3. Step 3: Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Gently toss the salad to coat all ingredients with the dressing, then serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors.

Tips & Variations

• For added crunch, sprinkle toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds over the salad just before serving.
• Replace basil with fresh mint or parsley for a different herbaceous note.
• If fresh mozzarella balls are unavailable, use chunked mozzarella but drain excess liquid first to avoid a watery salad.
• Adjust the amount of garlic and balsamic vinegar to suit your taste preferences.

Storage

Store leftover salad covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Avocado may brown, so consume soon after preparation. For best texture, keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving when storing for later. Reheating is not recommended as this salad is best served fresh.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best to prepare all ingredients separately and combine just before serving to keep the avocado fresh and the salad crisp.

What can I use instead of balsamic vinegar?

You can substitute apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar for a different but still complementary tangy flavor.

Cucumber Mozzarella Salad Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 114 reviews

A refreshing and vibrant Cucumber Mozzarella Salad featuring crisp cucumber, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and buttery avocado, all tossed with a fragrant basil and garlic balsamic dressing. Perfect as a light appetizer or a healthy side dish.

• Author: Cleo
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Salad Ingredients

• 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 avocado, diced
• 1/3 cup chopped fresh basil leaves

Dressing Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. Assemble the Salad Ingredients: Begin by placing the fresh ingredients into a serving bowl. Add the sliced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, diced avocado, and chopped fresh basil leaves. Arrange them nicely for an appealing presentation.
2. Prepare the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper until emulsified and well combined.
3. Dress and Serve the Salad: Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together to ensure all the salad components are evenly coated with the flavorful dressing. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors.

Notes

• Use ripe avocado for the creamiest texture and best flavor.
• Adjust salt and pepper to your taste preference.
• Fresh basil is key for the best aroma and taste; consider substituting with fresh mint if desired.
• This salad is best served immediately to preserve avocado freshness and prevent moisture build-up.
• For a vegan alternative, substitute fresh mozzarella with vegan cheese or omit it altogether.

Keywords: Cucumber Mozzarella Salad, Fresh Salad, Summer Salad, Italian Salad, Avocado Salad, Easy Salad Recipe, Healthy Salad