Crisp, refreshing, and bursting with flavor, Cucumber Tomato Salad is like a summer picnic on a plate. Imagine sinking your fork into a vibrant mix of juicy tomatoes and crunchy cucumbers, all tossed together in a zesty dressing that practically sings with freshness. This salad isn’t just food; it’s an experience that can transport you to sun-drenched gardens and backyard barbecues.
Let me share a little secret: every time I make this Cucumber Tomato Salad, I’m reminded of family gatherings where laughter floated through the air like the aroma of grilled meats. It’s the perfect side dish for everything from casual lunches to festive dinners, making it an absolute must-have for any occasion. Get ready for an explosion of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cucumber Tomato Salad is incredibly easy to whip up, so you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying
- The bright flavors will awaken your senses and impress your guests
- Its stunning colors make it a showstopper on any table
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to complement any meal or stand alone as a light lunch
Ingredients for Cucumber Tomato Salad
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Cucumbers: Use fresh cucumbers; they add crispness to the salad. English cucumbers are great as they have fewer seeds.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy cherry tomatoes bring color and flavor; feel free to mix different varieties for a visual treat.
- Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds crunch and sharpness; soak it in cold water for a milder taste if desired.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley provides freshness and a pop of color; you can substitute with basil for a different twist.
- Olive Oil: A good-quality olive oil enhances the flavor profile while adding richness.
- Red Wine Vinegar: This ingredient gives the salad its tangy kick; balsamic vinegar works well too for added sweetness.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential for enhancing flavors; adjust according to taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Veggies
Start by washing your cucumbers and cherry tomatoes under cool running water. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons—whatever floats your boat! Halve the cherry tomatoes; their bright colors should leap off the cutting board.
Step 2: Add Some Crunch
Next, grab that red onion! Thinly slice it (and maybe shed a tear or two) before tossing it into your mixing bowl with the cucumbers and tomatoes. If you’re feeling fancy, feel free to soak those slices in cold water first—it’ll take away some of the bite.
Step 3: Mix Up the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper until it’s smooth and emulsified. Taste it! Adjust seasoning as needed because we all have different palates—some like it zesty while others prefer it more mellow.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Pour that dreamy dressing over your cucumber-tomato-onion mixture. Toss gently so every piece gets coated without turning into mush—that’s not what we want here!
Step 5: Add Fresh Herbs
Sprinkle in chopped parsley (or basil!) right before serving for that extra burst of flavor and color. Give it one last gentle toss; you’re almost there!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer your gorgeous Cucumber Tomato Salad onto plates or serve it straight from the bowl at your next gathering. It pairs brilliantly with grilled meats or as part of a refreshing lunch on its own.
Now you’re ready to dive into this deliciousness! Enjoy every bite of this Cucumber Tomato Salad as it takes center stage at your table—no one will believe how easy it was to make!
You Must Know
- This refreshing Cucumber Tomato Salad is more than just a side dish; it’s a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate
- With its crisp textures and vibrant colors, it can turn any meal into a celebration
- Perfect for summer picnics or as a light lunch option, it’s both delicious and nutritious!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create the ultimate Cucumber Tomato Salad, start by washing your produce thoroughly. Dice the cucumbers and tomatoes before tossing them together in a bowl. Finally, drizzle with olive oil and seasonings for the best flavor infusion.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Cucumber Tomato Salad! Add crumbled feta for creaminess or toss in diced bell peppers for extra crunch. You can also swap out herbs like basil for parsley to suit your taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover Cucumber Tomato Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just remember to avoid reheating it, as fresh salads are best enjoyed cold!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To perfect your Cucumber Tomato Salad, opt for ripe tomatoes for maximum flavor
- Slice cucumbers just before serving to maintain their crunch
- Don’t skip the salt; it enhances all those wonderful flavors beautifully
The first time I made this Cucumber Tomato Salad, my friends devoured it so quickly that I barely had time to snap a photo! Their compliments made me feel like a kitchen rockstar.
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Cucumber Tomato Salad?
To make a refreshing Cucumber Tomato Salad, you will need fresh cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, red onion, fresh parsley, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. The key to a delicious salad lies in using high-quality ingredients. You can customize this recipe by adding feta cheese or olives for extra flavor. Ensure the vegetables are chopped into bite-sized pieces to enhance the overall texture and taste of the salad.
How can I store Cucumber Tomato Salad?
Cucumber Tomato Salad is best enjoyed fresh; however, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to two days. To maintain its crispness, consider storing the dressing separately and adding it just before serving. This way, your salad remains vibrant and crunchy rather than soggy from the dressing over time.
Can I add more vegetables to my Cucumber Tomato Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your Cucumber Tomato Salad by adding bell peppers, avocados, or even radishes. These vegetables not only enhance the flavor but also add interesting textures to the dish. Just remember to chop them into similar sizes as the cucumbers and tomatoes for a uniform look. Experimenting with different veggies can help you discover new favorite combinations.
Is Cucumber Tomato Salad healthy?
Yes, Cucumber Tomato Salad is a healthy choice! It is low in calories and packed with vitamins and minerals. Cucumbers are hydrating and rich in antioxidants, while tomatoes provide essential nutrients such as vitamin C and lycopene. This salad is a great option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet or seeking light meal options. Enjoy it as a side dish or a light lunch without guilt.
Conclusion for Cucumber Tomato Salad:
Cucumber Tomato Salad is a simple yet delightful dish that brings together fresh flavors and vibrant colors. With easily accessible ingredients like cucumbers and tomatoes, this salad can be prepared quickly for any meal or gathering. Remember to customize it with your favorite additions while keeping it light and healthy. Perfect as a side dish or main course component, this salad promises satisfaction without compromising on nutrition. Enjoy making this refreshing recipe all summer long!
Cucumber Tomato Salad
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cucumber Tomato Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for summer gatherings. This salad features crunchy cucumbers and juicy cherry tomatoes, all drizzled with a zesty dressing that enhances their natural flavors. It’s an ideal side dish or light lunch option, adding a burst of color to any meal while being quick and easy to prepare. Enjoy the delightful combination of textures and tastes that make this salad an essential addition to your warm-weather menu.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cucumber (sliced)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash cucumbers and cherry tomatoes. Slice cucumbers into rounds or half-moons, then halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Thinly slice the red onion and soak it in cold water if you prefer a milder taste.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to coat.
- Add chopped parsley just before serving for added freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
