Description
A fresh and vibrant Tomato Cucumber Mozzarella Salad featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, creamy mozzarella, and ripe avocado, tossed in a simple homemade balsamic vinaigrette with garlic and basil. Perfect as a light side dish or appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Cheese
- 1/2 English cucumber (quartered lengthwise and sliced)
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella pearls (or 1 cup diced fresh mozzarella cheese)
- 1 large avocado (diced)
- 1/3 cup basil leaves (chopped)
Dressing
- 3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 garlic clove (peeled and pressed or grated)
- 1/2 tsp fine sea salt (plus more to taste)
- 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: Place the quartered and sliced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, diced avocado, and chopped basil into a large serving bowl.
- Prepare Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, pressed or grated garlic, fine sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.
- Toss and Serve: Just before serving, drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad ingredients and gently toss everything together to coat. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors.
Notes
- Use fresh mozzarella pearls for a smooth texture; dice if using a block of fresh mozzarella.
- To avoid browning, add the avocado just before serving.
- Adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper to taste if desired.
- This salad can be prepared ahead but dress just before serving to keep ingredients fresh.
