🥗 Tomato Cucumber Mozzarella Salad
A refreshing, summer-ready salad featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, creamy mozzarella pearls, and avocado — all tossed in a simple balsamic dressing. Inspired by classic Caprese, this salad is easy, elegant, and endlessly versatile.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl or measuring cup (for dressing)
- Whisk
- Cutting board & knife
- Rubber spatula or large spoon
Ingredients
- ½ English cucumber quartered lengthwise and sliced
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella pearls or 1 cup diced mozzarella
- 1 large avocado diced
- ⅓ cup fresh basil leaves chopped or ribboned
- 3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 garlic clove grated or pressed
- ½ tsp fine sea salt plus more to taste
- ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
Prep the base:
- In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumber, halved tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, diced avocado, and basil.
Make the dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
Toss and serve:
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad. Gently toss to coat using a spatula or spoon. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Avocados are best added just before serving to avoid browning.
- To make this ahead, prep veggies and dressing separately; combine just before serving.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a full meal.
- Great leftover on toast or wrapped in a tortilla.