Name: Easy Cucumber Mozzarella Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
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; 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

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Introduction

This easy cucumber mozzarella salad is a fresh and vibrant dish perfect for warm days or as a light side. Combining crisp cucumber, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and ripe avocado, it’s bursting with flavor and simple to prepare.

The dish shows a close-up view of a salad in a round white plate with speckled edges, placed on a white marbled surface. The salad has multiple layers: the bottom layer consists of green avocado chunks and sliced cucumber pieces with a fresh, bumpy texture, scattered with bright red halved cherry tomatoes that reveal their juicy insides. On top, there are several smooth, white mozzarella balls evenly distributed. The salad is garnished with torn green basil leaves and drizzled with dark brown balsamic glaze, adding a glossy finish. In the background, a glass container of balsamic glaze is partially visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by placing the fresh ingredients into a serving bowl. Add sliced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, diced avocado, and fresh basil leaves. Arrange everything well for an appealing presentation.
Step 2: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients. Combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and freshly ground pepper. Whisk until the mixture is emulsified and fully combined.
Step 3: Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the salad. Gently toss all ingredients to ensure even coating. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors.

Tips & Variations

For a burst of sweetness, add a handful of sliced strawberries or a drizzle of honey to the dressing.
Use fresh mozzarella pearls for a softer texture or diced mozzarella if preferred.
Swap basil with fresh mint or parsley for a different herbal note.
If preparing ahead, keep the dressing separate and add just before serving to maintain freshness.

Storage

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Because avocado browns quickly, it’s best eaten fresh. If needed, keep the dressing separate and toss before serving. Reheating is not recommended; serve chilled or at room temperature.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with a fresh salad showing three main layers: the bottom layer has chopped green cucumber pieces with a smooth texture, the middle layer consists of bright red cherry tomatoes sliced in half showing their juicy interior, and the top layer displays creamy white mozzarella balls along with chunks of light green avocado sprinkle with green herbs, all drizzled with a dark balsamic glaze. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a glass jar of dark balsamic in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular mozzarella instead of fresh mozzarella balls?

Yes, you can substitute fresh mozzarella balls with diced regular mozzarella, but fresh mozzarella offers a creamier texture and more delicate flavor that complements the salad beautifully.

How do I prevent the avocado from browning in this salad?

To reduce browning, add avocado just before serving and toss gently. You can also sprinkle a little lemon or lime juice over the diced avocado to help preserve its color.