Cucumber Mozzarella Salad (5-Ingredient Recipe)

Light, crisp, and irresistibly refreshing, this Cucumber Mozzarella Salad is the kind of dish you make once and immediately add to your weekly rotation. Inspired by warm summer afternoons and effortless Mediterranean flavors, this salad blends crunchy cucumber with pillowy mozzarella pearls, creating a clean yet luxurious bite. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch, a picnic side, or a vibrant starter for guests, this salad delivers bright flavor with minimal effort.

📌 Cucumber Mozzarella Salad Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 0 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

Servings: 4

Calories: 165 per serving

Ingredients

• 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 8 oz mozzarella pearls, drained
• 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp white balsamic vinegar (or regular balsamic)
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh basil, thinly sliced
• 1 tsp sea salt
• ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Zest of ½ lemon (optional)

Instructions

1. Prep the cucumbers: Slice cucumbers thinly and place them in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the mozzarella: Add mozzarella pearls directly into the bowl.
3. Create the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Toss the salad: Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and mozzarella, then gently mix.
5. Add herbs: Sprinkle in dill, basil, and lemon zest if using.
6. Serve fresh: Enjoy immediately or chill for 20 minutes for enhanced flavor.

Substitutions & Dietary Swaps

This Cucumber Mozzarella Salad is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian. To adjust flavor or meet dietary needs, try the following substitutions:

• Dairy-free: Replace mozzarella with marinated tofu cubes or vegan mozzarella pearls.
• Herb swaps: Use parsley, mint, or chives instead of basil and dill.
• Vinegar alternatives: Lemon juice or rice vinegar works beautifully.
• Extra crunch: Add thinly sliced red onion or cherry tomatoes.

Chef’s Pro Tips

• Chill cucumbers before slicing for a crispier bite.
• Use a mandoline for perfectly thin, even slices.
• Lightly salt cucumbers and pat dry to reduce moisture if serving later.
• For richer flavor, marinate mozzarella pearls in olive oil and herbs beforehand.

Make Ahead, Storage & Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can plan ahead with a few adjustments.

• Make ahead: Prepare dressing and slice herbs; combine just before serving.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
• Do not freeze: Cucumbers lose texture when frozen.
• No reheating needed: This is a chilled salad only.

Troubleshooting & Common Mistakes

• Watery salad: Salt cucumbers lightly and pat dry before mixing.
• Bland flavor: Increase herbs or add a splash of lemon juice.
• Soggy texture: Add dressing right before serving.
• Overpowering vinegar: Start with ½ tablespoon and adjust to taste.

Flavor Pairings & Serving Suggestions

This bright, herb-forward Cucumber Mozzarella Salad pairs well with grilled proteins, artisan bread, and light summer entrees.

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Cucumber Mozzarella Salad

A crisp, refreshing salad made with thinly sliced cucumbers, creamy mozzarella pearls, fresh herbs, and a bright vinaigrette—perfect for a quick side dish or light meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Salad

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Calories: 165

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Salad Base

• 2 large English cucumbers thinly sliced
• 8 oz mozzarella pearls drained

Dressing

• 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp white balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp fresh dill finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh basil thinly sliced
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper freshly cracked
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• lemon zest optional, zest of 1/2 lemon

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Mandoline (optional)

Method

 

1. Thinly slice the cucumbers and add them to a large mixing bowl.
2. Add mozzarella pearls to the bowl.
3. Whisk together olive oil, vinegar, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and mozzarella, then toss gently to combine.
5. Fold in dill, basil, and optional lemon zest.
6. Serve immediately or chill for 20 minutes for enhanced flavor.

Notes

For extra crunch, add thinly sliced red onion or cherry tomatoes. Salt cucumbers lightly before mixing to reduce wateriness.

FAQs

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?

Yes. Peel them and remove seeds for best texture.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Assemble ingredients separately and combine just before serving.

What can I use instead of mozzarella pearls?

Cut fresh mozzarella into small cubes.

Can I add protein?

Grilled shrimp or chicken pairs exceptionally well.

How long will leftovers last?

Up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes! it’s naturally low-carb and keto-friendly.

Can I make it spicy?

Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños.

Conclusion

This vibrant Cucumber Mozzarella Salad is proof that simple ingredients can yield extraordinary flavor. Fresh, crisp, and beautifully balanced, it’s the perfect side dish or light meal for any season. Try it today and share your creations with us!

For more culinary inspiration, explore trusted resources like USDA Food Safety Guidelines