Fresh Tomato Cucumber Salad with Mozzarella Recipe: Summer Bliss

Summer’s heat calls for a refreshing mediterranean cucumber and tomato salad with mozzarella that promises cool, crisp delight.

Juicy ingredients dance together in a light, zesty dressing bursting with flavor.

Mediterranean herbs sprinkle magic across each vibrant bite.

Chunks of creamy mozzarella add luxurious texture to this simple yet elegant dish.

Fresh vegetables create a symphony of colors and tastes that sing of sunny afternoons.

Perfectly balanced and wonderfully light, this salad delivers a quick escape to coastal comfort.

Prepare to savor every delectable spoonful and let your taste buds celebrate.

Ingredients in Tomato Cucumber Salad

• Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy base for the salad.
• Cucumber: Crisp and refreshing vegetable.
• Red Onion: Sharp and tangy flavor enhancer.

• Fresh Basil Leaves: Aromatic herb that adds brightness.

• Fresh Mozzarella Balls: Creamy and soft cheese.

• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil, Balsamic Vinegar: Creates a smooth and tangy dressing base.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Classic seasoning for balanced flavor.

• Dried Oregano: Adds an extra herbal dimension to the dressing.

How to Make Tomato Cucumber Salad

Step 1: Chop Fresh Produce

Slice cherry tomatoes in half, placing them into a spacious mixing bowl.

Cut cucumbers into small, bite-sized cubes and drop them into the bowl.

Separate fresh mozzarella balls into halves and add to the mixture.

Finely slice red onion into delicate rings and incorporate into the bowl.

Gently tear fresh basil leaves into smaller pieces and sprinkle over the ingredients.

Step 2: Whip Up Zesty Dressing

In a separate small container, blend extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Sprinkle in salt and black pepper.

For an extra flavor punch, shake in dried oregano and mix thoroughly until ingredients are well combined.

Step 3: Combine and Coat

Pour prepared dressing over vegetable and cheese mixture.

Use a large spoon to softly fold ingredients, ensuring every piece gets a delicious coating of the tangy dressing.

Step 4: Final Touch and Presentation

Sample the salad and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if desired.

Transfer colorful mixture to a beautiful serving dish.

Let salad rest for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to harmonize before enjoying.

Serve chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish.

Pro Tips for Tomato Cucumber Salad

• Cut vegetables uniformly to ensure even dressing absorption and create a visually appealing salad.
• Adjust balsamic vinegar and olive oil ratio to match your taste preference, preventing the salad from becoming too acidic or oily.
• Use fresh basil leaves just before serving to maintain their vibrant flavor and prevent wilting.
• Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to allow ingredients to marinate and develop a more complex taste profile.
• Pat cucumber and tomato pieces dry with paper towels to reduce excess moisture and keep the salad crisp.

How to Store Tomato Cucumber Salad Properly

• Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep cool and crisp by placing a paper towel on top to absorb excess moisture.
• Before reheating or serving again, drain any accumulated liquid to maintain the salad's fresh texture.
• Place the container in the coldest part of the refrigerator, away from the door to prevent temperature fluctuations.
• Enjoy within 24 hours for optimal taste and texture, as the vegetables may lose their crispness over time.

Salad Pairings That Work

• Perfectly Paired Wine Selection: Choose a crisp, light Italian white wine like Pinot Grigio to complement the fresh tomato and cucumber flavors, cutting through the creamy mozzarella with its bright acidity.
• Rustic Bread Companion: Serve alongside crusty Italian ciabatta or focaccia bread to soak up the delicious olive oil and balsamic dressing, adding a satisfying textural contrast to the salad.
• Mediterranean Protein Booster: Add grilled chicken or sliced prosciutto on the side to transform this light salad into a more substantial meal, enhancing the protein content while maintaining the refreshing Mediterranean profile.
• Herbal Drink Pairing: Enjoy with a chilled glass of sparkling water infused with fresh basil and lemon, mirroring the salad's herbal notes and providing a refreshing accompaniment that cleanses the palate between bites.

New Takes on Tomato Cucumber Salad

• Vegan Veggie Delight: Replace mozzarella with firm tofu cubes, marinated in lemon juice and herbs. Use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
• Mediterranean Magic: Add kalamata olives, swap balsamic for red wine vinegar, sprinkle with za'atar seasoning for extra zest.
• Protein Power Bowl: Include grilled chicken strips or chickpeas for added protein. Mix in quinoa for a heartier meal.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute cucumber with zucchini noodles. Skip onions and use fewer tomatoes to reduce carbohydrate content.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of tomatoes in this salad?

Yes, you can substitute cherry tomatoes with regular tomatoes, heirloom tomatoes, or vine-ripened tomatoes. Just chop them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even distribution.

• Is there a substitute for fresh mozzarella?

Absolutely! You can use burrata, feta, or goat cheese as alternatives. Each will bring a unique flavor and texture to the salad.

• How can I make this salad more protein-rich?

Add grilled chicken, canned tuna, or chickpeas to transform this side dish into a complete meal. These protein sources will complement the fresh vegetables and cheese.

• What if I don't have balsamic vinegar?

No worries! You can replace balsamic vinegar with red wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or lemon juice. Each will provide a tangy kick to the dressing.

What Stands Out About Tomato Cucumber Salad with Mozzarella

• Enjoy a vibrant mix of juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil that creates a delightful taste explosion in every bite.
• Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, potlucks, or as a refreshing side dish that appeals to all ages and satisfies different taste preferences.
• Packed with fresh vegetables and lean protein, this salad offers a nutritious and low-calorie meal that doesn't compromise on taste or satisfaction.

Tomato Cucumber Salad with Mozzarella Recipe

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4.5 from 33 reviews

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Mediterranean summer Greek Tomato Cucumber Salad with Mozzarella celebrates fresh garden vegetables dancing with creamy cheese. Crisp ingredients blend perfectly, offering cool refreshment for summer dining and delighting palates with classic Mediterranean flavors.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 2 cups cucumber (diced (about 2 medium cucumbers))
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini, halved)

Aromatics and Herbs:

• 1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (torn)
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)

Dressing and Seasonings:

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)

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Instructions

1. Slice cherry tomatoes in half and transfer to a spacious mixing vessel. Chop cucumbers into uniform cubes and introduce them to the container.
2. Segment fresh mozzarella into halves and incorporate with the vegetables. Shave red onion into delicate, translucent ribbons and scatter throughout the mixture.
3. Delicately tear basil leaves into small fragments, dispersing them generously across the vegetable medley.
4. Craft the vinaigrette by whisking extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper in a compact bowl. Optionally, enhance with dried oregano for nuanced flavor complexity.
5. Stream the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Tenderly fold and rotate the components to ensure comprehensive coating.
6. Sample the salad and calibrate seasoning with additional salt and pepper as desired. Allow the ensemble to rest 10-15 minutes, permitting flavors to harmonize and intensify.
7. Transfer to a presentation dish, serving at room temperature to maximize taste profile and textural intrigue.

Notes

• Customize the salad by swapping fresh mozzarella with feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist.
• Enhance flavor by letting the salad marinate for 10-15 minutes before serving, allowing ingredients to absorb the dressing.
• Make the dish low-carb by reducing onion quantity and adding protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra substance.
• Boost nutrition by incorporating additional herbs like parsley or mint, which complement the existing basil and add complexity to the flavor profile.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 145
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 15mg