Print

Creamy Avocado Ranch Cucumber Caprese Salad

creamy avocado ranch cucumber Caprese salad - featured image
Print Recipe

This vibrant summer salad combines crisp cucumber, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and a luscious homemade avocado ranch dressing. It’s quick, healthy, and perfect for picnics, BBQs, or a refreshing lunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large English cucumber (or 2 medium), sliced thin
  • 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved (about 300g)
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls (about 150g), or diced mozzarella ball
  • 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
  • Sea salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 medium ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
  • 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt (80g; use full-fat or non-dairy as needed)
  • 2–4 tablespoons buttermilk (30-60ml; or milk/unsweetened almond milk)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (30ml)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped (optional)
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced (or 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • Salt & pepper, to taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon salt and a good grind of pepper)

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry the cucumber, tomatoes, and basil. Slice the cucumber into thin rounds (about 1/4 inch thick).
  2. Halve the cherry tomatoes. If using larger tomatoes, chop into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Drain mozzarella pearls and pat dry with a paper towel.
  4. Thinly slice the red onion (if using). Tear or chiffonade the basil leaves.
  5. In a small food processor or blender, combine avocado, Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons buttermilk, lemon juice, dill, parsley, chives, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  6. Blend until smooth, scraping down sides as needed. Add more buttermilk or water for a thinner dressing if desired. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  7. In a large bowl, combine cucumber, tomatoes, mozzarella, red onion, and basil.
  8. Pour about two-thirds of the avocado ranch dressing over the veggies. Gently toss until evenly coated. Add more dressing as desired.
  9. Season with extra salt and pepper to taste.
  10. Transfer to a serving bowl or platter. Garnish with extra basil and black pepper. Optionally, drizzle with olive oil or balsamic glaze.
  11. Serve immediately, or chill for 20 minutes for flavors to meld. If making ahead, add dressing just before serving.

Notes

For best results, use ripe but firm avocado and super fresh herbs. Pat mozzarella and cucumbers dry to avoid a watery salad. Start with less dressing and add more as needed. For vegan or dairy-free, use plant-based yogurt and mozzarella. Chill before serving for deeper flavor, but it’s delicious right away too.

Nutrition

Keywords: avocado, ranch, cucumber, caprese, salad, summer, vegetarian, gluten-free, healthy, fresh, easy, mozzarella, tomato, basil

Find it online: https://magnetmeal.com/creamy-avocado-ranch-cucumber-caprese-salad-easy-fresh-summer-recipe/