Tired of heavy meals? Craving something light, fresh, and bursting with flavor? Then look no further! This Cucumber Tomato Mozzarella Salad is the perfect solution. It's a simple yet incredibly delicious dish that's perfect for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a vibrant side dish at your next barbecue. This easy recipe is packed with fresh ingredients, making it a healthy and satisfying choice for the whole family. Get ready to experience the epitome of summer eating!
Ingredients:
- 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
- 2 large tomatoes, diced
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, torn into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional, but adds a nice bite!)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prep the veggies: Begin by thoroughly washing and preparing your vegetables. Thinly slice the cucumber, dice the tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion (if using). Chopping everything consistently ensures even cooking and a more aesthetically pleasing salad.
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Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the sliced cucumber, diced tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and red onion (if using). Be gentle to avoid bruising the tomatoes and cucumber.
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Create the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings to your preference. You can add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the balsamic vinegar if desired.
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Dress the salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly. Avoid over-mixing, as this can break up the mozzarella.
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Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil leaves over the salad. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture. This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored, refrigerated, for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Tips for the Best Cucumber Tomato Mozzarella Salad:
- Choose ripe tomatoes: The flavor of your salad will depend heavily on the quality of your tomatoes. Opt for ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best results.
- Don't overdress: It's easy to add too much dressing, so start with a smaller amount and add more if needed. You want the dressing to complement the fresh flavors of the vegetables, not overpower them.
- Use high-quality mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella has a wonderfully creamy texture and unique flavor that elevates this simple salad.
- Add some protein: For a more substantial meal, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or white beans to your salad.
Variations:
- Add some heat: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a delightful kick.
- Citrus twist: A squeeze of lemon or lime juice brightens up the flavors.
- Different herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley or mint.
- Caprese variation: For a classic twist, omit the cucumber and red onion and use only tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a serving size of approximately 1 cup and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: 200-250
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
- Fiber: 2-3g
This refreshing Cucumber Tomato Mozzarella Salad is a quick dinner idea, a healthy meal option, and a perfect example of delicious dishes created with homemade cooking. Enjoy this easy recipe and elevate your summer meals!