Hey y'all! If you're craving a fresh and vibrant lunch or need a showstopping sandwich for your next picnic, the Cucumber Caprese Sandwich is your go-to choice. This easy recipe combines juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and crisp Cucumber for an irresistible bite you’ll want on repeat. Flavorful basil, a touch of balsamic, and crusty bread complete this summer-inspired treat—perfect for lunch, picnics, or a light dinner. Let’s get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Cucumber Caprese Sandwich
- Super quick and easy—ready in just 15 minutes with minimal prep.
- Packed with fresh, healthy ingredients and bursting with flavor.
- Perfectly customizable for vegetarians and cheese lovers alike.
- Crunchy, creamy, and juicy textures in every bite.
- Ideal for lunch, picnics, or a refreshing snack.
Cucumber Caprese Sandwich Ingredients
- 2 crusty ciabatta rolls (or 4 slices hearty Italian bread)
- 4 oz (115g) fresh mozzarella, thickly sliced
- 1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 large ripe tomato, sliced
- ¼ cup (10-12 leaves) fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
- Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 clove garlic, halved for rubbing bread
How to Make a Cucumber Caprese Sandwich: Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare Your Bread
Slice ciabatta rolls in half (or use Italian bread slices). For extra flavor, lightly toast the inside of the bread for 2-3 minutes until golden. For extra aroma, gently rub the cut side of the bread with the garlic clove.
Step 2: Layer Fresh Ingredients
Arrange mozzarella slices evenly on the bottom slice of each roll. Top with tomato slices, followed by cucumber slices. Tuck fresh basil leaves in between layers for a burst of herbal aroma.
Step 3: Add Finishing Touches
Drizzle olive oil and balsamic glaze over the vegetables. Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Step 4: Assemble & Serve
Place the top half of the bread on each sandwich. Gently press down, slice in half if desired, and serve immediately. Enjoy your crunchy, creamy Cucumber Caprese Sandwich!
Notes for the Perfect Cucumber Caprese Sandwich
- Use very fresh mozzarella and vine-ripened tomatoes for best flavor. Learn more about selecting mozzarella.
- If packing for lunch, keep the balsamic glaze and olive oil separate, adding just before eating to prevent soggy bread.
- Seed your cucumbers for less moisture, or use English cucumbers for extra crunch; see more cucumber tips at The Kitchn.
Cucumber Caprese Sandwich Variations
- Avocado Caprese: Swap in sliced avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
- Grilled Veggie Caprese: Add grilled zucchini or roasted bell peppers for a richer flavor.
- Pesto Caprese: Spread a thin layer of basil pesto on the bread before assembling.
Required Equipment for a Cucumber Caprese Sandwich
- Serrated bread knife
- Cutting board
- Small bowl and spoon for drizzling oil/glaze
- Serving plate
Cucumber Caprese Sandwich Storage & Shelf Life
For best results, enjoy immediately! However, you can assemble sandwiches (without drizzle) up to 6 hours ahead and refrigerate in an airtight container. Add olive oil and balsamic glaze just before serving. Finished sandwiches last up to 24 hours in the refrigerator but may get softer over time.
Serving Recommendations for Your Cucumber Caprese Sandwich
- Pair with chilled gazpacho or a light green salad for a complete meal.
- Serve with kettle chips or fresh fruit for a quick lunch.
- Enjoy with sparkling lemonade, iced tea, or a crisp white wine.
Pro Tips for the Best Cucumber Caprese Sandwich
- Salt your tomato and cucumber slices for 5 minutes before assembling to draw out excess moisture and boost flavor.
- Choose a sturdy bread to prevent sogginess—ciabatta, focaccia, or baguette are excellent choices (see more on best sandwich breads).
- Layer basil leaves away from direct contact with wet vegetables for optimal aroma and no wilting.
Cucumber Caprese Sandwich FAQs
- Can I make this sandwich vegan?
- Absolutely! Substitute plant-based mozzarella and skip the cheese, or use sliced tofu with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a dairy-free twist.
- What type of cucumber is best?
- English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers are best as they have thin skins and fewer seeds, which add extra crunch without excess moisture.
- Can I add protein to the Cucumber Caprese Sandwich?
- Yes! Add grilled chicken, prosciutto, or even a hard-boiled egg for extra protein and a heartier meal.
Ingredients
- 4 slices rustic Italian bread
- 1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 large ripe tomato, sliced
- 4 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoon balsamic glaze
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
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1Lay out the slices of bread on a clean surface. Drizzle one side of each slice with olive oil.
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2Layer cucumber slices evenly on two bread slices, followed by tomato slices and fresh mozzarella cheese.
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3Add fresh basil leaves on top of the mozzarella, then drizzle with balsamic glaze.
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4Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
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5Top with the remaining bread slices, olive oil side in. Gently press the sandwiches together, slice in half, and serve immediately.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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