Immerse yourself in the freshness of summer with this Cucumber Tomato Salad, a vibrant and refreshing dish that’s as nourishing as it is delightful. Perfect for hot summer days, barbecues, or as a light accompaniment to any meal, this salad combines the crispness of cucumbers, the juiciness of tomatoes, and the sharpness of red onion, all dressed in a simple yet flavorful vinaigrette. Not only is this salad incredibly easy to assemble, but it also offers a burst of colors and flavors that celebrate the bounty of the season. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish or a quick, refreshing bite, this Cucumber Tomato Salad is sure to satisfy.
Why You’ll Love Cucumber Tomato Salad:
- Fresh and Light: Ideal for those seeking a healthy, refreshing side dish.
- Quick and Easy: Comes together in minutes, making it perfect for busy days or impromptu gatherings.
- Versatile: Pairs beautifully with a wide range of main dishes, from grilled meats to plant-based proteins.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable to include your favorite herbs, cheeses, or additional vegetables.
Ingredients Notes For Cucumber Tomato Salad:
- Cucumbers: English cucumbers or garden cucumbers are preferred for their crisp texture and mild flavor. Peel if desired.
- Tomatoes: Use ripe, flavorful tomatoes. Cherry or grape tomatoes, halved, add sweetness and a pop of color.
- Red Onion: Adds a sharp contrast in flavor and a beautiful pop of purple.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or basil enhance the salad with their vibrant flavors.
- Vinaigrette: A simple dressing made with olive oil, vinegar (white wine or apple cider), lemon juice, salt, and pepper brings all the components together.
Recipe Steps:
- Prep the Vegetables: Slice cucumbers, halve tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. Chop the herbs finely.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
- Combine and Toss: In a large bowl, combine the prepared vegetables and herbs. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently to ensure everything is well coated.
- Chill and Serve: Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Give it a quick toss before serving.
Storage Options:
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- Best Enjoyed Fresh: This salad is best enjoyed the day it’s made, as the vegetables will begin to release water over time.
How to Make a Refreshing Cucumber Tomato Salad
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers peeled (if desired) and sliced
- 3-4 ripe tomatoes cut into wedges (Roma, cherry, or heirloom tomatoes all work well)
- 1/2 red onion thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey optional, for a touch of sweetness
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Feta cheese crumbled, for garnish
- Optional: Olives Kalamata or black, for added flavor
Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables:
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, tomato wedges, and thinly sliced red onion.
Make the Dressing:
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In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, and honey (if using). Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Combine and Chill:
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables in the bowl. Add the chopped parsley and gently toss everything together until the vegetables are well coated with the dressing.
- If using, add the crumbled feta cheese and olives, and gently toss again.
- Cover and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This step is optional but recommended for the best flavor.
Serve:
- Give the salad a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
- Serve chilled, garnished with additional parsley and feta cheese if desired.