Description
This vibrant Tomato Basil Cucumber Salad is a refreshing, low-carb twist on the classic Caprese. Featuring crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella pearls tossed in a simple herb-infused vinaigrette, it is the perfect 10-minute side dish for a healthy Keto lifestyle.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 large English cucumbers, sliced into bite-sized half-moons
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls (or cubed fresh mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chiffonade sliced
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon high-quality balsamic vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Produce: Wash and thoroughly dry all vegetables. Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and cut the cucumbers into quarter-inch thick rounds or half-moons.
- Slice the Basil: Stack the basil leaves, roll them tightly like a cigar, and slice across the roll to create thin ribbons.
- Whisk the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk until emulsified and let sit for 5 minutes to infuse the flavors.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cucumbers, tomatoes, and mozzarella pearls.
- Toss and Serve: Pour the dressing over the vegetables and add the basil ribbons last. Gently fold everything together with two large spoons until evenly coated.
Notes
For the best texture, salt the cucumbers in a colander for 10 minutes and pat dry before assembly to prevent wateriness. Avoid adding the basil until right before serving to keep it from wilting. If the olive oil solidifies in the fridge, let the salad sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before eating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx 1 cup)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 25mg