Description
Mediterranean flavors dance in this refreshing salad where sweet cherries mingle with crisp cucumbers and creamy mozzarella. Zesty herbs and a light vinaigrette bring Mediterranean charm that makes you crave another forkful of this delightful summer dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Fresh Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 8 ounces (226 grams) fresh mozzarella, cubed
Dressing Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon grainy or strong mustard
Instructions
- Prepare the cucumber by carefully slicing it into delicate, translucent ribbons using a mandoline slicer. If a mandoline is unavailable, use a sharp knife to create thin, elegant slices.
- Carefully pit the ripe cherries, cutting them precisely in half to reveal their vibrant interior.
- Heat a dry skillet over high temperature and carefully toast the pine nuts, constantly stirring to prevent burning. The nuts should turn golden brown and release a fragrant aroma, which typically takes about 60-75 seconds.
- Craft the vinaigrette by combining all designated ingredients in a small mixing bowl, whisking until the components are thoroughly integrated and emulsified.
- Build the salad by artfully arranging the cucumber ribbons as a base layer on individual serving plates.
- Distribute the halved cherries across the cucumber foundation, creating a visually appealing pattern.
- Gently tear the fresh mozzarella into rustic pieces and scatter them over the cherry and cucumber arrangement.
- Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts evenly across the salad, adding textural complexity.
- Drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the composed salad, ensuring a light and even coverage.
- Garnish with delicate, freshly torn mint leaves for an aromatic finishing touch.
- Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper according to personal preference, ensuring a balanced flavor profile.
Notes
- Cool and refreshing salad that balances sweet cherries with crisp cucumber and creamy mozzarella.
- Toasting pine nuts quickly enhances their nutty flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the dish.
- Use a mandoline for perfectly thin, uniform cucumber ribbons that create an elegant presentation.
- Carefully remove cherry pits to ensure a smooth, enjoyable eating experience.
- Fresh mint leaves provide a bright, aromatic finish that elevates the entire salad.
- Homemade vinaigrette brings all ingredients together with a tangy, balanced dressing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg