If you’re in search of a vibrant and revitalizing dish that can be prepared in mere minutes, look no further than Tomato Cucumber Mozzarella Salad. This delightful mix features crisp cucumber slices, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella pearls, all enhanced with a light balsamic herb dressing. Ideal as a side dish for summer barbecues, a quick and healthy lunch, or even a refreshing snack, this salad brings the garden to your table in the most delightful way. With each bite, you’ll experience the fresh flavors of basil and a touch of oregano, making it a perfect match for those who crave light, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.
This easy recipe for Tomato Cucumber Mozzarella Salad is not just fast but also remarkably versatile. You can serve it alongside grilled dishes, pack it for lunch, or even enjoy it as a main course on hot days when the appetite is lighter. Even beginners in the kitchen will find this recipe stress-free, making it an excellent choice for anyone to enjoy. The combination of textures—from the crunchy cucumbers to the plump tomatoes and soft mozzarella—provides a satiating eating experience, while the dressing ties all elements together seamlessly. Embrace this Mediterranean-inspired salad that can brighten up any meal!
Why You’ll Love This Tomato Cucumber Mozzarella Salad
- Fresh & Vibrant: The colors and flavors bring a lively touch to any table.
- Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 10 minutes, this dish is perfect for time-strapped individuals.
- Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with fresh veggies and beneficial fats from olive oil.
- Versatile: Great as a side dish, quick lunch, or light dinner option.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: A salad that fits perfectly into any plant-based diet.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the delicious preparation of your Tomato Cucumber Mozzarella Salad, it’s essential to set up your kitchen workspace efficiently. Start by washing all your fresh produce—this is crucial to ensure cleanliness and to enhance the taste of your salad. You’ll need a large mixing bowl to accommodate all the ingredients without creating a mess. A sharp knife and cutting board will be necessary for chopping the vegetables and herbs, while a whisk will be handy for blending your dressing smoothly. If you have a salad server or tongs, they will make it easier when it comes to tossing the salad together without bruising those tender ingredients.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 large English cucumber, sliced and quartered
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by rinsing the cherry tomatoes thoroughly to remove any impurities. After they’re clean, slice them in half to reveal their juicy interiors. Next, take the large English cucumber and slice it into rounds before quartering them to create bite-sized pieces. Combine both the tomatoes and cucumber in a large mixing bowl. This foundation will ensure a nice balance of flavors and colors in your salad.
Step 2: Add the Mozzarella
Gently drain the mozzarella pearls, ensuring that they are free of excess moisture, which could make your salad watery. Carefully incorporate these creamy little balls into your bowl of vegetables, as they will add a delightful texture contrast and a burst of flavor in every mouthful.
Step 3: Incorporate Fresh Herbs
For a fragrant and flavorful kick, take your fresh basil leaves and chop them into thin ribbons known as chiffonade. This technique not only enhances the visual appeal but also releases the aromatic oils present in the basil. Stir the sliced basil into the bowl, ensuring they are evenly distributed among the other ingredients.
Step 4: Whisk the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. The emulsification will create a bright and flavorful dressing, soaking into the salad elements beautifully.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Drizzle the homemade dressing generously over your salad. With your hands or a set of salad tongs, gently toss everything together. The key here is to be gentle to avoid squishing the tomatoes and mozzarella. By doing this, each component gets coated evenly, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Though your salad is ready to be enjoyed immediately, letting it chill in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes will deepen the flavors. The wait may be tough, but the delicious taste enhancement is worth it. Once chilled, serve it up in bowls, garnishing with a sprinkle of additional fresh basil if desired.
Variations
- Protein: Consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Vegetables: Swap in bell peppers, radishes, or even avocado to enhance the salad’s texture.
- Spices: For a spicy kick, include red pepper flakes or a dash of chili powder.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure the vegetables are fresh for the best flavor and texture.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside grilled meats or fish for a complete meal.
- Pack it in a lunchbox for a refreshing on-the-go meal option.
Tips
- Letting the salad sit after dressing allows flavors to meld beautifully.
- Experiment with different types of vinegar such as red wine or apple cider for added flavor variations.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 150 per serving
- Protein: 6 grams
- Sodium: 200 mg
FAQs
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad up to a day in advance. However, add the dressing just before serving for the best texture.
What if I can’t find mozzarella pearls?
Feel free to use block mozzarella cut into cubes instead; the flavor remains delicious!
Is this salad good for meal prep?
Absolutely! This salad can be stored in the fridge for up to two days, making it ideal for meal prep.
Can I make it vegan?
To make this salad vegan-friendly, simply omit the mozzarella or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Tomato Cucumber Mozzarella Salad is not just a feast for the eyes but also a delightful dish that embodies simplicity and freshness. Whether you are looking for a quick side for a gathering or a healthy lunchtime salad, this recipe adapts beautifully to your needs. Its versatility and ease of preparation mean anyone can enjoy and create it. We encourage you to experiment with different combinations, add some protein, or swap in other ingredients based on your preference. We would love to hear your thoughts and variations, so feel free to leave a comment below or share your salad journey with us!
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Tomato Cucumber Mozzarella Salad
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Tomato Cucumber Mozzarella Salad is vibrant and revitalizing, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 large English cucumber, sliced and quartered
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Start by rinsing the cherry tomatoes thoroughly to remove any impurities. After they’re clean, slice them in half to reveal their juicy interiors. Next, take the large English cucumber and slice it into rounds before quartering them to create bite-sized pieces. Combine both the tomatoes and cucumber in a large mixing bowl.
- Gently drain the mozzarella pearls, ensuring that they are free of excess moisture. Carefully incorporate these creamy little balls into your bowl of vegetables.
- Chop the fresh basil leaves into thin ribbons and stir them into the bowl.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over your salad and gently toss everything together.
- Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Notes
Letting the salad sit after dressing allows flavors to meld beautifully.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Category: Salad
Nutrition
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Protein: 6 g