Fresh Cucumber Mozzarella Salad – Easy Summer Side Recipe

Posted on November 11, 2025

cucumber mozzarella salad - featured image

The crisp crunch of fresh cucumbers paired with creamy mozzarella and a zesty homemade dressing—this salad is summer in a bowl. I remember the first time I made this recipe; it was one of those scorching hot days when you don’t feel like turning on the oven or standing over the stove. I wanted something light, refreshing, and satisfying, and this cucumber mozzarella salad checked all the boxes. It’s the kind of dish you can whip up in minutes and enjoy with anything from grilled chicken to a simple slice of bread.

If you’re looking for an easy summer side that’s as vibrant as it is delicious, let me tell you, this salad delivers. The combination of textures and flavors is pure joy—crisp cucumber, soft mozzarella, a hint of sweetness from cherry tomatoes, and the tangy pop of the dressing tying it all together. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or need a quick dish for a picnic, this recipe will be your new warm-weather favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: You can throw this salad together in under 15 minutes. No cooking required!
Simple Ingredients: Everything used in this recipe is easy to find, and you might already have most of it in your kitchen.
Perfect for Summer: This salad is incredibly refreshing, making it an ideal side for hot days.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re feeding kids or adults, everyone loves the refreshing crunch paired with creamy cheese.
Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of fresh herbs, tangy dressing, and juicy veggies makes every bite burst with flavor.

What makes this cucumber mozzarella salad stand out? It’s the perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication. The creamy mozzarella adds a luxurious texture that you don’t often find in classic cucumber salads. Plus, the tangy dressing is light yet full of flavor, elevating the dish without overpowering the fresh ingredients. It’s great for impressing guests with minimal effort!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses fresh, wholesome ingredients to create a salad that’s refreshing and satisfying. The best part? You can easily tweak it to your liking or based on what’s in your fridge.

Fresh cucumbers: Thinly sliced or chopped, depending on your preference.
Cherry tomatoes: Halved for little bursts of sweetness.
Mozzarella balls: Also known as bocconcini or pearls, these add a creamy texture. (Feel free to cut larger mozzarella into chunks if that’s what you have!)
Red onion: Thinly sliced for a punch of flavor. Soak them in cold water for a few minutes to mellow out the sharpness if needed.
Fresh basil leaves: Torn or chopped for a fragrant herbal note.
Olive oil: Extra virgin is best for the dressing—it has a rich, fruity flavor.
Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed for brightness. (You can substitute with white wine vinegar if needed.)
Honey: Just a touch to balance the acidity of the lemon juice.
Salt and black pepper: To season and enhance the flavors.

Optional additions: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a handful of arugula for a peppery kick or sprinkle some chili flakes for heat.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need much to make this salad, which is part of its charm! Here’s what you’ll need:

Cutting board: For slicing the vegetables and cheese.
Sharp knife: A good-quality knife makes slicing thin and even much easier.
Mixing bowl: To toss all the ingredients together.
Whisk: For blending the dressing ingredients smoothly.
Serving plate or bowl: To present your beautiful salad.

If you don’t have a whisk, you can use a fork to mix the dressing. And if you’re short on bowls, just mix the salad directly in your serving dish—no harm done!

Preparation Method

Prepare the vegetables: Wash the cucumbers and cherry tomatoes thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or bite-sized chunks, depending on your preference. Halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion.
Prep the mozzarella: If you’re using larger mozzarella balls, cut them into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using pearls, they’re ready to go!
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons (45 ml) of olive oil, 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of honey, and a pinch each of salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Toss the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and red onion. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients.
Add the herbs: Tear or chop the fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them over the salad. Give everything one last toss to distribute the herbs evenly.
Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving dish and enjoy immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

To make your cucumber mozzarella salad truly shine, here are some tried-and-true tips:

Use fresh ingredients: Since this salad is all about freshness, make sure your cucumbers, tomatoes, and basil are at their best.
Salt the cucumbers: If you have extra time, sprinkle a bit of salt on the cucumber slices and let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. This will prevent the salad from getting watery.
Adjust the dressing: Taste the dressing before adding it to the salad. If you prefer it tangier, add a bit more lemon juice. If you like it sweeter, increase the honey slightly.
Keep it cold: For the ultimate refreshing taste, chill the salad before serving and use chilled ingredients.
Avoid overmixing: Be gentle when tossing the salad to keep the mozzarella and veggies intact.

Variations & Adaptations

This salad is incredibly versatile—here are some ideas to switch it up:

Herb swap: No basil? Try fresh parsley, mint, or even dill for a different flavor profile.
Add protein: Turn this side dish into a main meal by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
Make it vegan: Swap the mozzarella for a plant-based cheese or use avocado chunks for creaminess.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot chili oil to the dressing for a little heat.
Experiment with veggies: Add other crunchy veggies like radishes, bell peppers, or even zucchini for variety.

Personally, I love adding a handful of toasted pine nuts for a bit of crunch—it’s a small addition that makes a big difference!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This cucumber mozzarella salad is best served chilled. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, or even a simple pasta dish. If you’re hosting a summer picnic, pack it in a portable container, and you’re good to go.

Leftovers? No problem! Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Note that the cucumbers may release some water over time, so you might want to drain off any excess liquid before serving again.

When it comes to reheating, this salad is best enjoyed cold, but if you added proteins like grilled chicken, they can be reheated separately and added back to the chilled veggies.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This cucumber mozzarella salad is as nutritious as it is delicious. Here’s what you’ll love about it:

Low calories: Cucumber is low in calories and high in water content, making this a guilt-free treat.
Rich in nutrients: Tomatoes provide vitamin C and antioxidants, while basil adds a dose of vitamin K.
Protein boost: Mozzarella adds a creamy texture and a good source of protein.
Gluten-free: Naturally gluten-free and perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
Balanced fats: The olive oil contributes healthy fats, making this salad heart-friendly.

It’s a salad that’s not only easy on the waistline but also packed with nutrients to keep you feeling great all summer long.

Conclusion

This fresh cucumber mozzarella salad is the perfect summer side—light, refreshing, and full of flavor. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, enjoying a picnic, or simply looking for an easy dish to elevate dinner, this recipe has you covered. It’s easy to customize, quick to make, and guaranteed to impress.

Now, let’s get chopping—you’re going to love this one!

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the ingredients and dressing separately, then toss them together right before serving to keep everything fresh.

What can I use instead of mozzarella?

If you’re out of mozzarella, try feta, goat cheese, or even diced avocado for a creamy alternative.

How do I keep the salad from getting watery?

Salt the cucumbers and let them sit for 10 minutes before tossing the salad. This will help draw out excess moisture.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are great options to turn this side dish into a full meal.

Is this salad keto-friendly?

Yes, this salad is low in carbohydrates, making it a great choice for those following a keto lifestyle.

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