If you’re looking for a refreshing, vibrant, and wonderfully simple dish to brighten your table, this Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad is an absolute game changer. It combines the crispness of cool cucumbers, the creamy delight of fresh mozzarella, and the sweetness of ripe cherry tomatoes—all harmonized with fragrant basil and a tangy balsamic dressing. Whether you need a quick side or a light lunch, this salad brings together fresh flavors and textures in a way that’s both effortless and incredibly satisfying.

Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this salad is a star in its own right, contributing essential flavor, texture, and color that make this recipe shine. From the creamy avocado to the zing of balsamic vinegar, these simple ingredients are what make the Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad truly special.

1/2 English cucumber: Crisp and hydrating, it provides a refreshing crunch that brightens every bite.
3 cups halved cherry tomatoes: These juicy bursts bring a sweet and tangy pop of color.
8 oz fresh mozzarella balls: Creamy and tender, mozzarella adds a luscious richness that melts in your mouth.
1 large diced avocado: Adds a buttery texture and a dose of healthy fats for extra creaminess.
1/3 cup chopped basil leaves: Fresh basil offers a fragrant herbal note that lifts the entire salad.
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: The base of the dressing, providing smoothness and depth.
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar: Adds a lovely sweet acidity that balances the salad perfectly.
1 clove garlic: Pressed or grated, it brings a subtle savory kick to the dressing.
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt: Essential for enhancing all the fresh flavors—adjust to your taste.
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that rounds out the dressing.

How to Make Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad

Step 1: Assemble the Salad Ingredients

Start by gathering all your fresh ingredients and placing them into a large serving bowl. The quartered and sliced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, diced avocado, and chopped basil should be gently combined but arranged nicely to create an inviting and colorful base for the salad. This step is all about showcasing the freshness and natural beauty of the components.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together your olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk until the dressing is well emulsified—this means it should look smooth and combined rather than separated. This simple vinaigrette is where all the flavors start to meld together, giving the Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad its bright, tangy, and slightly garlicky charm.

Step 3: Dress and Serve the Salad

Right before you’re ready to serve, drizzle the homemade dressing over the salad bowl. Use a gentle tossing motion to evenly coat all the ingredients with the dressing without bruising the delicate mozzarella or avocado. Serving immediately ensures every bite is fresh, crisp, and bursting with vibrant flavors.

How to Serve Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad

Garnishes

To elevate this salad, consider sprinkling a few extra torn basil leaves on top or some freshly cracked black pepper for a bit more visual appeal and flavor intensity. A light drizzle of extra balsamic glaze can add a beautiful finishing touch and a slightly sweeter note that pairs beautifully with the creamy mozzarella.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs perfectly with grilled chicken or fish for a light yet satisfying meal. It’s also a fantastic side for summer barbecues or picnic spreads alongside crusty bread and olives. The freshness of the Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad balances richer dishes beautifully, making it an ideal companion on your dining table.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress guests? Serve the salad in individual clear glasses or small mason jars for a charming presentation. Another idea is to pile it atop toasted baguette slices as a refreshing bruschetta variation. No matter how you present it, this salad’s vibrant colors and textures will be a hit.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (though it’s hard to resist eating it all right away), store the Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within a day to keep the cucumber crisp and the avocado from browning excessively.

Freezing

This salad is not suitable for freezing due to the fresh vegetables and creamy avocado, which lose their texture and become watery after thawing. Enjoy it fresh for the best taste and texture experience.

Reheating

Since this is a fresh salad, reheating is not recommended. The vibrant, cool ingredients are meant to be served chilled or at room temperature to maintain their delightful crunch and creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumber?

Absolutely! Regular cucumbers work just fine, but English cucumbers have thinner skin and fewer seeds, which sometimes creates a smoother texture and fewer bitter notes.

Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?

The cheese in the Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad is dairy-based, so it is not vegan. However, you can swap the mozzarella for vegan cheese alternatives or omit it altogether and still enjoy a delicious salad.

How long can I prepare this salad in advance?

It’s best to assemble and dress the salad just before serving to ensure freshness. If you must prepare ahead, chop and combine the vegetables separately from the dressing for a few hours.

Can I substitute balsamic vinegar with something else?

Yes! Red wine vinegar or lemon juice can be great alternatives, but balsamic adds a unique sweetness that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

What can I add to make this salad more filling?

Adding some cooked quinoa, chickpeas, or grilled chicken can turn this refreshing salad into a hearty main course without losing the fresh charm.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad, it will quickly become one of your go-to dishes for warmer days or when you need a quick, flavorful side. The combination of crisp cucumber, creamy mozzarella, and fresh herbs with a tangy, garlicky dressing is simply unbeatable. Don’t hesitate—whip it up today and share this refreshing delight with your loved ones!