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Switch up your caprese salad with the addition of cucumbers! This Cucumber Caprese Salad is light, flavorful, and perfect for summer. One of our favorite ways to use all those fresh garden veggies!

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Summer time is salad time in my book… and cucumber caprese is the ULTIMATE summer salad! It combines all the flavors of a traditional caprese salad with the freshness of summer cucumbers, and the end result is arguably BETTER than the original.

Because in addition to the fresh mozzarella and sweet tomatoes, it has crispy cucumbers that kick the freshness up a notch. Who knew that cucumbers could make such a difference!?

The end result is a quick and easy salad that’s perfect for cookouts, picnics, and potlucks. And best of all… it’s a salad that takes advantage of ALL the veggies you’re most likely growing in your garden! Enjoy!

What you’ll need for this recipe

Cucumbers – I used one English cucumber in this recipe. I always prefer English cucumbers in salads because of their thin, mild skin and the fact that they have smaller seeds than other cucumbers. You can substitute any type you have on hand.

Fresh mozzarella cheese – Small mozzarella balls (pearls) are the perfect size for a salad like this. If you can’t find pearls, feel free to use any fresh mozzarella and simply chop it to size.

Tomatoes – I used grape tomatoes for their small size and sweet flavor. You can also use cherry tomatoes (halved) or Roma tomatoes (chopped).

Fresh basil leaves – Fresh basil is a must in this salad! I would NOT recommend substituting dried basil since the basil is such an important component.

Balsamic vinaigrette – Any type of balsamic dressing will work. I always prefer homemade, but store bought works too!

How to make Cucumber Caprese Salad

Prep the cucumbers. Slice the cucumber in half lengthwise, then slice in half again. Chop into bite sized pieces. (*Optional: peel the cucumbers before slicing)

Combine the ingredients. Combine the cucumber, mozzarella pearls, and tomatoes in a medium mixing bowl.

Add the basil and balsamic vinaigrette. Add the basil and balsamic vinaigrette and stir gently. Alternately: let people drizzle their own vinaigrette to taste. I love serving salad dressing out of this cute little pitcher!

Serve or refrigerate. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Recipe Variations

Add sliced red onion
Peel the cucumbers before adding them to the salad
Substitute balsamic glaze for the vinaigrette
Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar
Add or substitute your favorite basil pesto
Add chopped avocado
Add your favorite protein, such as chicken, shrimp or steak

Make Ahead & Storage Tip

This recipe is easy to make ahead for stress-free entertaining! To do so, combine the ingredients as directed, wrap in plastic wrap, and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Because of the fresh basil and tomatoes, it’s best when eaten fresh.

More Cucumber Salad Recipes You’ll Love!

If you love cucumbers… or have an abundance of them in your garden… be sure to try some of our other favorite recipes!