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Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad featuring fresh cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil makes a refreshing summer delight.

Easy Caprese Cucumber Boat

This refreshing and vibrant Easy Caprese Cucumber Boat recipe takes the classic Caprese salad flavors and presents them in a fun and unique way. Crisp cucumbers are transformed into boats filled with creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all drizzled with olive oil and balsamic glaze for the perfect summer appetizer or light meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Appetizer, Light Meal, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large cucumbers
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls bocconcini
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
  • Sea salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Large bowl
  • Small bowl (optional, for dressing)
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Vegetable peeler (optional)

Method
 

  1. Wash the cucumbers. Peel them if desired. Cut each cucumber in half lengthwise.
  2. Scoop out the seeds from each cucumber half using a spoon, creating a boat shape.
  3. Rinse the cherry tomatoes and cut them in half.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls.
  5. Roughly chop the fresh basil leaves and add them to the bowl.
  6. Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze over the mixture.
  7. Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  8. Gently toss all the ingredients together until evenly coated.
  9. Carefully spoon the Caprese mixture into the hollowed-out cucumber boats.
  10. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

For the best flavor, use high-quality extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze. To prevent the cucumbers from becoming soggy, assemble the boats just before serving. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Store leftover cucumber boats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, but the cucumbers may soften over time. For a variation, try adding diced avocado or grilled halloumi cheese to the Caprese mixture.