Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad

This Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish, combining the crispness of cucumbers with the creaminess of fresh mozzarella and the sweetness of ripe tomatoes. It's a perfect dish for warm days when you desire something light and refreshing. The salad is quick to prepare, requiring no cooking, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With its vibrant colors and fresh flavors, this salad not only pleases the palate but also adds a touch of elegance to any meal. It's a must-try for those seeking a healthy and delicious option.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

• 1 tablespoon dried oregano

• 1 tablespoon dried basil

• Pinch of salt

• Pinch of pepper

• 1 cucumber, peeled, fork-scored, and thinly sliced, then diced

• 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, cut into quarters

• 8 oz fresh mozzarella

• ½ large red onion, chopped into small pieces

• Optional: fresh basil leaves
  
  

Directions:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, dried basil, and a dash of salt and pepper. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined. Set aside to let the flavors meld together while you prepare the rest of the salad.

2. Prepare the Vegetables: Start by peeling a washed cucumber. Use a fork to scrape the skin up and down a few times to create a textured surface. Slice the cucumber thinly and then dice it into small pieces. Place the diced cucumber in a medium-sized bowl.

3. Add the Tomatoes and Onion: Quarter the washed cherry tomatoes and add them to the bowl with the diced cucumbers. Next, thinly slice and dice a red onion. Add the onion to the bowl with the cucumbers and tomatoes. If you prefer not to use onion, you can omit this step.

4. Add the Mozzarella: Slice mozzarella into bite-sized pieces, or use pearl-sized mozzarella balls if you have them available. Add the mozzarella to the bowl with the cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion. Ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed in the bowl.

5. Combine and Marinate: Pour the prepared marinade over the vegetables and cheese in the bowl. Mix everything well, ensuring the marinade coats all the ingredients evenly. Allow the salad to sit for 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors develop and merge beautifully.
   
   

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: Approximately 500-600 kcal

• Protein: 20-25 g

• Fat: 35-40 g

• Carbohydrates: 40-50 g