If you’re craving a fresh, vibrant dish that bursts with summer flavors, this Tomato Cucumber Mozzarella Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s an effortless blend of juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, and creamy mozzarella pearls, all tied together with fragrant fresh basil and a tangy balsamic dressing. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a colorful side, or something to impress at your next gathering, this salad brings a perfect harmony of texture, color, and taste that’s downright irresistible.

A white bowl holds a fresh salad with three main layers. The base layer is round green cucumber slices with a smooth texture, spread out evenly. The middle layer is bright red cherry tomatoes, some whole and some cut in half, placed between and over the cucumbers. The top layer shows small white mozzarella balls scattered around with chopped green basil leaves sprinkled over everything. The salad is lightly coated with black pepper and a shiny dressing that glistens. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to making this Tomato Cucumber Mozzarella Salad Recipe shine. Each component plays a vital role in delivering that perfect balance of brightness, creaminess, and herbaceous goodness in every bite.

Cherry tomatoes: Using halved cherry tomatoes ensures a burst of sweetness and vibrant red color throughout the salad.
English cucumber: Slicing and quartering the cucumber adds a crisp, refreshing crunch that complements the soft mozzarella.
Fresh mozzarella pearls: These little balls of cheese bring creamy texture and a mild flavor that melts in your mouth.
Fresh basil leaves: Chopped into ribbons, basil adds a fragrant, slightly peppery aroma that lifts the entire salad.
Extra virgin olive oil: A rich, fruity olive oil forms the base of the dressing, binding the ingredients with luxurious smoothness.
Balsamic vinegar: Just a splash introduces a tangy sweetness that balances the salad beautifully.
Dried oregano: This herb adds subtle earthiness and depth, rounding out the dressing’s flavor profile.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning, these bring out the natural flavors of the salad ingredients.

How to Make Tomato Cucumber Mozzarella Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Begin by rinsing your cherry tomatoes and halving them so each bite delivers sweetness and juiciness. Then, slice your English cucumber lengthwise and quarter the slices to get crisp, bite-sized pieces. Place all these vibrant veggies into a large salad bowl, setting the foundation for this delightful dish.

Step 2: Add the Mozzarella Pearls

Next, gently drain the fresh mozzarella pearls to avoid excess moisture, and add them to the bowl with the vegetables. The pearls’ creamy texture will contrast beautifully with the crunchy cucumber and tender tomatoes.

Step 3: Incorporate the Fresh Basil

Take your fresh basil leaves and slice them into thin ribbons before adding them to the bowl. This herb introduces that unmistakable fresh, aromatic character that is iconic in Mediterranean salads.

Step 4: Whisk the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This combination elevates the salad, adding layers of tangy, herby flavors that tie everything together.

Step 5: Toss and Combine

Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad ingredients and gently toss everything together with care so you don’t bruise the delicate mozzarella. Tossing ensures each bite is perfectly coated and flavorful.

Step 6: Chill Before Serving

For the best flavor, chill the salad in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes. This resting time lets the flavors meld and intensify, making your Tomato Cucumber Mozzarella Salad Recipe even more irresistible.

How to Serve Tomato Cucumber Mozzarella Salad Recipe

Tomato Cucumber Mozzarella Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

To add an extra touch of freshness and color, sprinkle some additional chiffonade of fresh basil or a few whole basil leaves on top before serving. A light drizzle of high-quality balsamic glaze can also create a stunning visual and flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, crusty artisan bread, or even a hearty quinoa pilaf. Its light yet flavorful nature makes it a perfect counterpoint to richer mains or a brilliant addition to any picnic spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this Tomato Cucumber Mozzarella Salad Recipe in hollowed-out cucumbers or tomato cups for an elegant appetizer. Alternatively, layering ingredients in a clear glass jar turns it into an eye-catching layered salad that’s perfect for meal prep or gifting to friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Because this salad is packed with fresh ingredients, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and tasty for up to two days, but it’s best enjoyed immediately for optimal texture, especially the mozzarella.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this salad since cucumbers and fresh mozzarella lose their texture and become watery when thawed. For the best experience, enjoy your salad fresh or within a couple of days refrigerated.

Reheating

This salad is designed to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is unnecessary. Simply take it out of the fridge a few minutes before serving to let the flavors wake up for a fresher taste.

FAQs

Can I use other types of tomatoes in the Tomato Cucumber Mozzarella Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! While cherry tomatoes are preferred for their sweetness and size, you can substitute grape tomatoes or even diced heirlooms. Just make sure to adjust the size for bite-friendly pieces.

Is fresh mozzarella necessary or can I use a hard mozzarella?

Fresh mozzarella pearls are ideal because of their soft texture and delicate flavor, which complements the crisp vegetables beautifully. Hard mozzarella won’t offer the same creaminess and may alter the salad’s character.

Can I add other herbs instead of basil?

Basil is traditional and lends a distinctive flavor, but feel free to experiment with fresh mint, parsley, or oregano for different herbal twists in your Tomato Cucumber Mozzarella Salad Recipe.

How can I make the salad more filling?

Adding cooked quinoa, chickpeas, or toasted nuts can transform this salad into a more substantial meal without compromising its fresh, light appeal.

What type of vinegar suits this salad best?

Balsamic vinegar is the classic choice here because of its sweet and tangy notes. However, you can try red wine vinegar for a sharper bite, but adjust the sweetness accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This Tomato Cucumber Mozzarella Salad Recipe has quickly become one of my absolute favorites for those warm-weather days when you want food that’s as refreshing as it is flavorful. With its effortless prep and bright, harmonious flavors, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and watch it disappear at your next meal or gathering!

Tomato Cucumber Mozzarella Salad Recipe

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Author: Emma
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Salad
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A fresh and vibrant Tomato Cucumber Mozzarella Salad featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp English cucumbers, and creamy mozzarella pearls, tossed with a fragrant basil and balsamic dressing. Perfect as a light appetizer or a refreshing side dish, this salad combines simple ingredients to create a delicious and healthy summer favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 large English cucumber, sliced and quartered
1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Prepare the vegetables: Rinse and halve the cherry tomatoes. Slice the English cucumber and then quarter the slices. Place all the prepared vegetables into a large mixing bowl.
Add the mozzarella: Drain the fresh mozzarella pearls and gently fold them into the bowl with the vegetables, ensuring even distribution without breaking them.
Add basil: Chop the fresh basil leaves into thin ribbons and add them to the bowl, enhancing the salad’s aroma and flavor.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined and emulsified.
Toss the salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss all ingredients together, ensuring that the vegetables and mozzarella are evenly coated.
Chill and serve: Refrigerate the salad for 10 to 15 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled for the best taste experience.

Notes

This salad is best served fresh but can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
For added crunch, you can sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top before serving.
Use fresh mozzarella pearls or small bocconcini for authenticity and better texture.
Adjust seasoning and dressing to taste, especially salt and pepper.
Chilling enhances the flavors but avoid leaving it too long to keep the cucumbers crisp.