Imagine a refreshing explosion of colors, textures, and flavors that captures the essence of Italian cuisine in just one bite! This Tomato, Cucumber, and Mozzarella Cheese Salad is not just a side dish – it's a culinary masterpiece that transforms simple, fresh ingredients into a mouthwatering experience that will transport you straight to the sun-drenched hills of Italy. Perfect for hot summer days, picnics, or as a quick and elegant appetizer, this salad is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup mozzarella balls
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash all fresh produce thoroughly under cool running water. Pat dry the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and fresh basil leaves with clean paper towels.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes by cutting them vertically from stem to bottom, ensuring even and consistent size for uniform presentation.
- Dice the cucumber into small, uniform cubes approximately 1/2 inch in size, removing the seeds if desired for a cleaner texture.
- If using whole mozzarella balls, cut them into bite-sized pieces that are similar in size to the tomato halves and cucumber cubes.
- Chop the fresh basil leaves using a sharp knife, creating delicate ribbons or fine pieces to distribute evenly throughout the salad.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and mozzarella pieces.
- In a small separate bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar to create a simple vinaigrette dressing.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the salad ingredients, gently tossing to ensure even coating.
- Season the salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting according to personal preference.
- Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil over the salad, gently mixing to distribute the herbs.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Before serving, give the salad a final gentle toss and transfer to a serving platter or individual plates.
Tips
- Choose the freshest ingredients possible – ripe cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, and high-quality fresh mozzarella make all the difference.
- For the best flavor, use extra virgin olive oil and a good quality balsamic vinegar.
- Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Use a sharp knife when cutting ingredients to ensure clean, uniform pieces.
- If you want to make the salad ahead of time, add the basil and dressing just before serving to keep the herbs fresh and prevent wilting.
- For an extra flavor boost, you can add a sprinkle of dried oregano or a few drops of high-quality aged balsamic glaze.
- Serve chilled for the most refreshing experience, especially on warm days.
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so try to consume within a few hours of preparation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
