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Cucumber Mozzarella Salad Recipe

4.4 from 57 reviews

This refreshing Cucumber Mozzarella Salad combines crisp cucumber, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and ripe avocado, all tossed in a flavorful dressing of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and fresh basil. Perfect as a light lunch or a vibrant side dish, this salad is easy to prepare and bursts with fresh, Mediterranean-inspired flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad 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

Dressing

  • 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

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vegetables: Start by washing the cucumber and cherry tomatoes. Cut the cucumber into quarters lengthwise and then slice it thinly. Halve the cherry tomatoes for easier eating and to release their juice into the salad.
  2. Prepare the cheese and avocado: Drain the fresh mozzarella balls or dice fresh mozzarella into cubes if preferred. Peel and dice the avocado into bite-sized pieces, taking care to keep them intact to maintain a creamy texture in the salad.
  3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and freshly pressed or grated garlic. Whisk these ingredients together until well blended. Season with fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  4. Combine salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together the sliced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, diced avocado, and chopped basil leaves.
  5. Add dressing and toss: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together to ensure the salad is evenly coated with the flavorful dressing, being careful not to bruise the avocado.
  6. Serve immediately: For best texture and flavor, serve the salad immediately after tossing. If needed, refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving but avoid longer storage to prevent the avocado from browning.

Notes

  • Use fresh mozzarella balls for a creamier texture or diced mozzarella if preferred.
  • Adjust salt and pepper to taste, especially if using salted mozzarella.
  • Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature.
  • Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for extra crunch if desired.
  • Perfect as a side dish for grilled meats or a light vegetarian meal.

Keywords: Cucumber salad, mozzarella salad, fresh salad, avocado salad, Mediterranean salad, easy salad recipe, summer salad, healthy salad