Description
This fresh cucumber tomato mozzarella salad is bursting with Mediterranean flavors and comes together in just 15 minutes. Featuring crisp cucumber, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and tangy balsamic marinade, it’s the perfect quick salad for summer lunches, light dinners, or gatherings. Finished with optional fresh basil, this no-cook vegetarian dish is as vibrant and delicious as it is easy to prepare.
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- Pinch salt
- Pinch pepper
For the Salad
- 1 cucumber, peeled, fork-scored, thinly sliced, and then diced
- 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced or pearl-sized balls
- ½ large red onion, chopped into small pieces
- Optional: fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, dried basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until the marinade is emulsified and the herbs are well distributed. Set the bowl aside, allowing the flavors to meld while you prepare the vegetables.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Peel the cucumber, and for additional texture, score the outer skin lightly with a fork. Slice the cucumber thinly, then dice into bite-sized pieces. Transfer the cucumber to a medium mixing bowl.
- Add the Tomatoes and Onion: Quarter the cherry tomatoes and add them to the cucumber in the bowl. Chop half a red onion into small pieces and add it as well. If you prefer milder onion flavor or wish to omit, adjust to your taste.
- Add the Mozzarella: Slice the mozzarella or use pearl-sized mozzarella balls. Add the cheese to the bowl and gently toss to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Combine and Marinate: Pour the marinade over the vegetable and cheese mixture. Mix thoroughly so that every bite is coated with the dressing. Allow the salad to rest for about 10 minutes so the flavors can fully develop. Just before serving, garnish with fresh basil leaves if using.
Notes
- For the best flavor, add torn or sliced fresh basil just before serving.
- You can substitute red onion with green onions for a milder taste, or omit entirely if preferred.
- Choose fresh, high-quality mozzarella for optimal creaminess and flavor.
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be covered and kept in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salads
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 275 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 11 g
- Fiber: 2.5 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 18 mg
