Basil Salad Recipe with Fresh Lime Dressing
A fresh and easy basil salad with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, mozzarella, and a bright lime dressing.
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl for tossing the salad
- 1 small bowl or jar for mixing the dressing
- 1 Whisk or use a jar with lid to shake dressing
- 1 knife for slicing vegetables
- 1 Cutting board for prep
Ingredients
For the salad
- 2 cups cucumber sliced into half-moons
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/4 small red onion very thinly sliced
- 8 ounces small mozzarella balls drained
- 1 1/2 cups fresh basil leaves torn if large
For the fresh lime dressing
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Make the dressing
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, honey, dried oregano, sea salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Assemble the salad
- Place the sliced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, red onion, and mozzarella balls in a large mixing bowl.
- Pour about three-quarters of the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
- Add the fresh basil leaves and toss once more very gently.
- Taste and add the remaining dressing if needed. Adjust seasoning with extra salt or a squeeze of lime, if desired.
- Serve immediately, or let the salad sit for 5 minutes before serving so the flavors can mingle.
Notes
Add the basil just before serving to keep it fresh and green. For milder onion flavor, soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes and drain well. This salad is best enjoyed the day it is made.