Eating a refreshing Cucumber Tomato Salad is like diving into a pool of summer goodness. Imagine the crunch of juicy cucumbers, the sweetness of ripe tomatoes, and a zesty dressing that dances on your taste buds. It’s not just a salad; it’s an experience that bursts with flavor and color, making your meal feel like a celebration.
This dish has been my go-to since childhood, especially during those hot family barbecues where everyone fought over the last spoonful. Picture me, a little kid, elbow-deep in veggies while adults chuckled at my enthusiasm for fresh produce. Now I create this salad for every picnic, potluck, or just because it’s Tuesday. Trust me when I say it’s perfect for any occasion—you’ll want to keep this recipe close!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cucumber Tomato Salad is a breeze to whip together with just a handful of ingredients
- The flavors meld beautifully, creating a delightful medley that looks as good as it tastes
- Its vibrant colors make it an eye-catching addition to any meal
- Plus, you can easily adapt it to suit your dietary preferences and seasonal ingredients
Ingredients for Cucumber Tomato Salad
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Cucumbers: Use fresh cucumbers for the best crunch; English or Persian cucumbers are great choices.
- Tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes add sweetness; heirloom varieties offer stunning colors and flavors.
- Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onions give a mild bite and beautiful contrast in color.
- Fresh Basil: Adds aromatic freshness; feel free to substitute with parsley if you’re not a basil fan.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances flavor; extra virgin is preferable.
- Balsamic Vinegar: This adds tanginess and depth; adjust based on your taste preference.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate all the flavors in this salad.
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 tomatoes under cool water. Slice the cucumbers into half-moons or rounds—whichever you prefer—and chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Add Some Flavor
In a large mixing bowl, combine your sliced cucumbers, chopped tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion. Toss them gently until evenly mixed—the colors will be so vibrant you’ll want to take a picture.
Step 3: Dress It Up
Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad mixture. A good rule of thumb is about two tablespoons of each ingredient—but feel free to adjust according to your taste! Add salt and pepper generously.
Step 4: Freshen It Up
Tear fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them over the salad. Gently toss everything again until all ingredients are well coated in the dressing.
Step 5: Chill Out
Let your salad sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows all those delicious flavors to mingle together—trust me; patience will pay off!
Step 6: Serve with Style
Transfer your refreshed Cucumber Tomato Salad onto plates or serve straight from the bowl at your next gathering. Drizzle with additional olive oil if desired for an extra touch of richness.
Now grab that fork—it’s time to dive into this colorful creation! Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or enjoying it solo on a cozy evening in, this Cucumber Tomato Salad is sure to impress!
You Must Know
- This vibrant cucumber tomato salad is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of fresh flavors
- With its colorful ingredients and zesty dressing, this salad brightens up any meal, making it the go-to side for barbecues or picnics
- Easy to whip up, it’s sure to impress
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To make cucumber tomato salad efficiently, start by chopping your cucumbers and tomatoes. While you prep, mix the dressing in a separate bowl. Toss everything together just before serving to keep those veggies crisp and fresh.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your cucumber tomato salad! Swap out cherry tomatoes for heirlooms, add diced avocados for creaminess, or sprinkle feta cheese on top for an extra flavor punch. The possibilities are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To maintain freshness, avoid adding dressing until you’re ready to serve. This keeps your salad crunchy and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use firm cucumbers for optimal crunch; they hold up better in salads
- Always season your tomatoes ahead of time to enhance their flavor
- Let the salad sit for a few minutes after mixing; it allows flavors to meld beautifully
Sometimes I whip up this cucumber tomato salad when hosting friends, and they rave about how refreshing it is. It’s like sunshine in a bowl, perfect for summer gatherings!
FAQs :
What ingredients are needed for Cucumber Tomato Salad?
To make a refreshing Cucumber Tomato Salad, you will need fresh cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, red onion, parsley, and a simple dressing. For the dressing, combine olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Feel free to add ingredients like feta cheese or avocado for extra flavor. Using fresh herbs enhances the salad’s taste. Select high-quality produce to ensure your salad is vibrant and delicious. With these ingredients, you can create a tasty dish that pairs well with various meals.
How do I prepare Cucumber Tomato Salad?
Preparing Cucumber Tomato Salad is quite easy. Start by washing and chopping the cucumbers and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Dice the red onion and chop the parsley finely. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the chopped vegetables. For the dressing, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all flavors. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes before serving for optimal taste.
Can I store Cucumber Tomato Salad?
Yes, you can store Cucumber Tomato Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, keep in mind that the salad may become watery as it sits due to moisture release from the cucumbers and tomatoes. To maintain freshness, consider storing the dressing separately until ready to serve. This way, your salad remains crisp and flavorful when you enjoy it later.
What are some variations of Cucumber Tomato Salad?
There are many creative variations of Cucumber Tomato Salad that you can try! You can add ingredients like bell peppers for crunch or chickpeas for protein. Incorporating different herbs such as basil or mint offers unique flavor profiles. For a Mediterranean twist, include olives and feta cheese; this adds richness to the dish. Feel free to experiment with dressings too—balsamic vinegar or yogurt-based dressings provide delicious alternatives while keeping it healthy.
Conclusion for Cucumber Tomato Salad :
Cucumber Tomato Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that enhances any meal with its fresh ingredients and vibrant colors. By using quality produce and an easy-to-make dressing, you can enjoy a delightful combination of textures and tastes. Remember that variations are endless; feel free to customize your salad based on personal preferences or seasonal ingredients. This refreshing recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides essential nutrients for overall health—perfect for summer gatherings or everyday meals!
Cucumber Tomato Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cucumber Tomato Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish that embodies the essence of summer with every bite. This colorful medley features crunchy cucumbers and juicy tomatoes, enhanced by aromatic basil and a simple olive oil and balsamic vinegar dressing. Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or as a light side for any meal, this salad is quick to prepare and endlessly customizable. Enjoy the burst of flavors that make this dish an essential staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cucumbers, sliced
- 2 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and slice cucumbers into half-moons or rounds. Chop tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion. Mix gently.
- Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add torn basil leaves to the bowl and toss until everything is well coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
