Cherry, Cucumber, and Mozzarella Salad: A Refreshing Summer Delight
Summer brings with it an abundance of fresh produce, and there’s no better way to celebrate the season than with a vibrant and refreshing salad. Today, I’m excited to share a delightful recipe that combines sweet cherries, crisp cucumbers, and creamy mozzarella, topped off with a zesty homemade vinaigrette. This Cherry, Cucumber, and Mozzarella Salad is not only visually appealing but also a joy to the taste buds, perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish at your next barbecue.
Ingredients
- 1 mini cucumber (or 1/2 standard cucumber): Provides a crisp, refreshing crunch.
- 20 cherries: Their sweet juiciness complements the savory components.
- 125 grams buffalo mozzarella: Adds a soft, creamy texture.
- 30 grams pine nuts: Offer a subtle crunch and nutty flavor.
- Fresh mint: For a burst of freshness.
- Salt and pepper: For seasoning.
For the Vinaigrette
- 2 tbsp olive oil: The base of our dressing, providing a smooth texture.
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar: Adds a tangy kick.
- 1 tsp honey: For a touch of sweetness.
- 1 tsp grainy or strong mustard: Brings depth and a slight heat.
Directions
- Prepare the Cucumber: Using a mandoline, slice the cucumber into thin ribbons. If you prefer a different texture, you can also slice them into rounds.
- Prepare the Cherries: Halve the cherries and remove the pits, ensuring they are ready to blend well with other ingredients.
- Toast the Pine Nuts: In a dry skillet over high heat, toast the pine nuts for about 1 minute. Keep a close eye on them as they can easily burn.
- Mix the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, and mustard until well combined.
- Assemble the Salad: On plates, layer the cucumber ribbons, halved cherries, and torn pieces of mozzarella. Sprinkle toasted pine nuts over the top.
- Dressing and Garnish: Drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the salad and garnish with fresh mint leaves. Season with salt and pepper according to taste.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes
This Cherry, Cucumber, and Mozzarella Salad is as quick to prepare as it is delicious. It’s the perfect showcase for seasonal ingredients and is sure to be a hit at any meal. Its combination of textures and flavors makes it a standout dish that’s not only nourishing but also a pleasure to assemble and serve. Enjoy this beautiful salad on a sunny day and let the flavors of summer dance on your palate!
Cherry, Cucumber, and Mozzarella Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Description
This Cherry, Cucumber, and Mozzarella Salad is a harmonious blend of sweet and savory, coupled with the crunch of pine nuts and the softness of buffalo mozzarella, creating a refreshing dish perfect for warm weather days. The subtle tartness of the apple cider vinaigrette complements the natural sweetness of cherries, making it an unforgettable salad experience.
Ingredients
1 mini cucumber (or 1/2 standard cucumber)
20 cherries
125 grams buffalo mozzarella
30 grams pine nuts
Fresh mint
Salt and pepper
Vinaigrette:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp honey
1 tsp grainy or strong mustard
Instructions
Use a mandoline to slice the cucumber into ribbons (or if preferred, into slices).
Halve the cherries and remove pits.
Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over high heat for about 1 minute—watch carefully as they burn quickly.
In a small bowl, mix all the vinaigrette ingredients.
Assemble the salad on plates: layer the cucumber ribbons, halved cherries, torn mozzarella, toasted pine nuts, and drizzle with vinaigrette. Garnish with fresh mint leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes