This isn't your average Caprese, folks. Oh no, we're taking a delightfully crunchy detour with the star of the show: cucumber! It's light, refreshing, and adds a wonderful texture that complements the creamy mozzarella and juicy tomatoes perfectly. I remember the first time I tried this salad – it was at a small farmer's market, and I was blown away by how such simple ingredients could create something so vibrant and flavorful. Ever since, it's been a go-to for summer gatherings and quick lunches. It is a very adaptable recipe, I once even added a little bit of lime juice, and the acidity of the lime mixed with the cucumbers made it taste amazing!
Now, some might say, "Cucumber in a Caprese? Is that even allowed?" And to them, I say, "Absolutely!" The subtle sweetness of the cucumber balances the acidity of the tomatoes and the richness of the mozzarella in a way that's simply divine. Plus, it's a great way to sneak in some extra veggies! My sister, who's a notorious picky eater, actually loves this salad because the cucumber makes it less 'tomato-y'. Go figure! Also, don't be scared of experimenting and making changes to the recipe based on your preferences. Some people like it with a little bit of lemon zest on top, and some others put a balsamic reduction. The goal is to make it a perfect dish for you.
Required Equipments
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Serving platter
Cucumber Craving: Cucumber Caprese Salad: Frequently Asked Questions
Cucumber Craving: Cucumber Caprese Salad
A refreshing twist on the classic Caprese salad, featuring crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil. This simple yet elegant salad is perfect for a light lunch or a flavorful appetizer.
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield: 2 servings
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
- Prep the cucumber: Wash the cucumber thoroughly. There's no need to peel it unless you prefer. Slice the cucumber into approximately 1/4-inch thick rounds. Try to keep the slices consistent for a better presentation.
- Slice the tomatoes: Wash and dry the tomatoes. Slice them into rounds that are similar in thickness to the cucumber slices.
- Slice the mozzarella: If using a large ball of fresh mozzarella, slice it into rounds about the same thickness as the cucumber and tomato slices. If using pre-sliced mozzarella, you can use those directly.
- Arrange the salad: On a serving platter, begin arranging the cucumber, tomato, and mozzarella slices. You can alternate them in a circular pattern or create rows. Overlap the slices slightly for a visually appealing presentation. Consider the colors and try to balance them out for a visually appealing display.
- Add fresh basil: Tuck fresh basil leaves between the cucumber, tomato, and mozzarella slices. Use whole leaves for a more rustic look, or tear larger leaves into smaller pieces. Pro-tip: Gently tear the basil instead of cutting it to prevent bruising and preserve its flavor.
- Drizzle with olive oil: Drizzle extra virgin olive oil generously over the entire salad. The amount of olive oil you use depends on your preference, but aim for enough to coat all the slices lightly. Using a high-quality olive oil will enhance the flavor of the salad, trust me!
- Season with salt and pepper: Sprinkle the salad with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Start with a small amount and add more to taste. Consider using a coarse sea salt for a bit of added texture.
- Serve immediately: For the best flavor and texture, serve the salad immediately after assembling. This prevents the tomatoes from becoming soggy and ensures the mozzarella stays fresh.
- Optional additions: For an extra touch, consider adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before serving. These additions can elevate the salad and give it a unique twist. Want to try something different? How about adding a few Kalamata olives for a salty bite!
📝 Notes
🍎 Nutrition
Calories: 250 kcal
Protein: 10g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Calcium: 150mg
