1-First: in a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon dried oregano, 1 tablespoon dried basil, a dash of salt, and a dash of pepper; set it aside. This creates a flavorful base that enhances the fresh ingredients.

2-Next: prepare the cucumber by peeling it, scraping the skin with a fork multiple times to reduce bitterness, then slicing it thin and dicing into a medium bowl.

3-Then: add 1 ½ cups quartered cherry tomatoes to the bowl for a burst of sweetness. If you choose to use it, thinly slice and dice ½ large red onion and add it in for extra zest. Follow that by adding 8 ounces of fresh mozzarella, sliced or in pearl-sized balls. Now, pour the dressing over everything and mix well to coat all the pieces evenly.

4-Finally: let the salad sit for 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors blend.