Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Estimated Nutrition Recipe

Fresh Cucumber Tomato Mozzarella Salad with Balsamic

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 77 reviews

This vibrant Mediterranean-inspired salad combines crisp cucumber, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and tangy red onion, all tossed in a zesty olive oil and balsamic marinade. It’s fresh, flavorful, and comes together quickly—perfect as a refreshing side dish, light lunch, or appetizer. Optional fresh basil adds a burst of aromatic, herbaceous flavor.

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Marinade

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon dried basil
  • Pinch salt
  • Pinch pepper

For the Salad

  • 1 cucumber, peeled, fork-scored, thinly sliced, and then diced
  • 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, quartered
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced or pearl-sized balls
  • ½ large red onion, chopped into small pieces
  • Optional: fresh basil leaves

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, dried basil, and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Stir until the ingredients are well blended, then set aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prep the rest of the salad.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables: Peel the cucumber, then use a fork to lightly score the outer skin for texture. Slice the cucumber thinly and dice into small pieces. Transfer to a medium bowl.
  3. Add the Tomatoes and Onion: Quarter the cherry tomatoes and add them to the bowl with the cucumber. Chop half a red onion into small pieces and add to the same bowl. If you prefer, you may omit the onion.
  4. Add the Mozzarella: Cut the mozzarella into bite-sized pieces or use pearl-sized mozzarella balls. Add the cheese to the bowl with the vegetable mixture and toss gently for even distribution.
  5. Combine and Marinate: Pour the reserved marinade over the vegetables and mozzarella. Mix thoroughly so that all ingredients are evenly coated. Let the salad rest for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend beautifully before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Notes

  • For extra freshness, add torn or sliced fresh basil just before serving.
  • If you’re not a fan of onions, feel free to omit them or use milder green onions instead.
  • Use the freshest, highest-quality mozzarella you can find for the creamiest texture.
  • This salad is best enjoyed the day it is made, but can be covered and refrigerated for up to 24 hours.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Salads
  • Method: No-cook
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
  • Calories: 125-150
  • Sugar: 5-6 g
  • Sodium: 250-300 mg
  • Fat: 9-10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4-5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4-5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 10-12 g
  • Fiber: 2-3 g
  • Protein: 5-6 g
  • Cholesterol: 15-20 mg