Tomato Cucumber Mozzarella Salad

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When summer is in full swing and the garden is bursting with ripe tomatoes and crisp cucumbers, there’s nothing more refreshing than this Tomato Cucumber Mozzarella Salad. With its vibrant colors, juicy textures, and creamy mozzarella pearls, this salad brings simple ingredients together in the most delicious way. It’s perfect as a light lunch, a BBQ side, or a healthy snack any time of day.

Each bite is a refreshing mix of juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumber, and creamy mozzarella, all brought together with a drizzle of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a touch of seasoning. Whether you’re entertaining or just feeding your family, this is a dish that feels both wholesome and indulgent.

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Why You’ll Love This Tomato Cucumber Mozzarella Salad

• It takes just minutes to prepare with no cooking required.
• It’s packed with fresh, seasonal produce.
• Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian.
• A crowd-pleaser that goes well with any summer meal.
• You can easily customize it with fresh herbs, a flavored oil, or even a splash of lemon juice.

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What Kind of Mozzarella Should I Use?

For the best flavor and texture, use fresh mozzarella pearls (also known as bocconcini). They have the perfect size and creaminess to complement the juicy tomatoes and crisp cucumbers. If you can’t find pearls, you can also cut a fresh mozzarella ball into bite-sized pieces. Avoid pre-shredded mozzarella or the firmer kind meant for pizza—they won’t offer the same soft and creamy texture that makes this salad irresistible.

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Ingredients for the Tomato Cucumber Mozzarella Salad

This salad is all about freshness. Each ingredient adds flavor, texture, and color to the dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Cherry or grape tomatoes – Their natural sweetness and juicy texture make them ideal for this salad.
• Cucumbers – Crisp and hydrating, cucumbers add a refreshing crunch.
• Fresh mozzarella pearls (bocconcini) – These soft, creamy cheese balls balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Fresh basil leaves – Bright, aromatic, and herbaceous, basil brings everything together.
• Extra virgin olive oil – Use a good-quality oil to add richness and depth.
• Balsamic vinegar – Adds a tangy, slightly sweet note that enhances the natural flavors.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the ingredients.

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How To Make the Tomato Cucumber Mozzarella Salad

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds. Halve the cherry or grape tomatoes. Drain the mozzarella pearls and pat them dry with a paper towel.

Step 2: Combine in a Bowl

In a large salad bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, halved tomatoes, and mozzarella pearls. Toss gently to mix.

Step 3: Add Dressing

Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad. Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss again until evenly coated.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Tear or chiffonade the basil leaves and sprinkle them over the top. Serve immediately or let it chill in the fridge for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

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Serving and Storing Your Tomato Cucumber Mozzarella Salad

This vibrant salad serves about 4 people as a side dish or 2 people as a light main. It’s perfect for warm-weather meals, picnics, or weeknight dinners.

To store, cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Note that the tomatoes and cucumbers will release water over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you’re making it ahead, wait to add the basil and dressing until right before serving to keep everything crisp and flavorful.

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What to Serve With Tomato Cucumber Mozzarella Salad?

Grilled Chicken or Steak

The freshness of the salad makes a great contrast to grilled or roasted meats.

Crusty Bread

Serve with a slice of sourdough or baguette to soak up the delicious dressing.

Pasta Dishes

Pair it with a creamy pasta or pesto-based dish for a balanced meal.

Quiche or Frittata

Perfect as a side for a brunch spread or light dinner.

Grilled Fish

Light seafood like grilled salmon or white fish complements the salad well.

Hummus and Pita

Turn it into a Mediterranean-style lunch plate.

Cold Pasta Salad

Great as part of a summer picnic spread with other chilled dishes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but for best results, prep the ingredients separately and assemble the salad right before serving. This keeps the texture fresh and prevents sogginess.

What can I use instead of mozzarella pearls?

If mozzarella pearls aren’t available, you can dice a ball of fresh mozzarella or use burrata for an extra creamy twist. Avoid shredded mozzarella for this recipe.

Can I add other ingredients?

Absolutely! Try adding red onion slices, avocado, kalamata olives, or even cooked quinoa for more substance. This salad is super flexible.

Is there a dairy-free version?

Yes. Simply skip the mozzarella or use a plant-based cheese alternative to make it dairy-free and vegan-friendly.

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Save This Pin For Later

Save this recipe to your Pinterest salad board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use heirloom tomatoes or classic cherry? Did you go with basil or try something new like mint?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.

More fresh recipes shared daily on my Pinterest:
Meals We Share By Sally

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Conclusion

Tomato Cucumber Mozzarella Salad is everything you want in a quick, healthy dish – it’s easy to make, full of color, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a summer get-together or just want something fresh for lunch, this salad delivers every time. With simple ingredients and endless customization, it deserves a regular spot in your kitchen rotation.

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