Crisp, refreshing, and vibrant, Cucumber Tomato Salad is a summer dream in a bowl. The crunch of fresh cucumbers dances with the juicy burst of ripe tomatoes, creating a flavor explosion that screams sunshine. Imagine slicing into those cool cucumbers while the sweet aroma of garden-fresh tomatoes wafts through the air, inviting you to indulge in this delightful dish.
This salad isn’t just a side; it’s a nostalgic journey back to sunny picnics and backyard barbecues, where laughter mingles with delicious food. Whether you serve it at a family gathering or whip it up for a solo lunch, this Cucumber Tomato Salad promises an amazing flavor experience that will leave your taste buds singing.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cucumber Tomato Salad takes minimal time to prepare while delivering maximum flavor satisfaction
- Its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it visually appealing on any table setting
- You can easily customize it based on seasonal produce or personal preferences
- Perfect as a side dish or a light meal on its own, it’s versatile and delicious!
Ingredients for Cucumber Tomato Salad
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Cucumbers: Choose firm cucumbers for the best crunch; Persian or English varieties work wonderfully.
Ripe Tomatoes: Opt for vine-ripened tomatoes for maximum sweetness and juiciness in every bite.
Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onions add a zesty kick while beautifully contrasting the freshness of the other ingredients.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley brings vibrant color and enhances the overall flavor profile with its earthy notes.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for rich flavor; it’s the secret ingredient that ties everything together.
Balsamic Vinegar: A drizzle of balsamic vinegar adds depth and tanginess that elevates this salad from ordinary to extraordinary.
Salt and Pepper: Season to taste; these basic ingredients are essential to enhance all the flavors in your 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: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by washing your fresh cucumbers and ripe tomatoes under cool water. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds (or half-moons if you like them thicker) and chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Add Some Zing
Next, grab that red onion! Thinly slice it—try not to cry too much! Toss those delicate rings into your mixing bowl along with the cucumbers and tomatoes.
Step 3: Bring in Freshness
Chop up your fresh parsley like you’re trying to impress someone (because you are). Sprinkle it generously over your veggie medley for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Step 4: Dress It Up
Now, drizzle your extra virgin olive oil over everything, followed by a splash of balsamic vinegar. Don’t be shy; let them mingle! Give everything a gentle toss until coated evenly.
Step 5: Season It Right
Add salt and pepper according to your taste. Remember, seasoning is key—it brings out all those bright flavors you’ve created.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Transfer your vibrant Cucumber Tomato Salad onto serving plates or a large bowl. You can even chill it for about 30 minutes if you want a refreshing cold salad—perfect for hot days!
This colorful salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish but can also stand alone as a light lunch option. Enjoy every crunchy bite!
You Must Know
- This refreshing cucumber tomato salad offers more than just a burst of flavor; it’s a delightful way to embrace the summer vibes
- The colorful medley of veggies brightens any meal and can be easily tailored to your taste
- Perfect for picnics or as a light side dish
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by chopping your cucumbers and tomatoes, ensuring they’re bite-sized and ready to mingle. Toss in some onion and herbs for extra flair, then drizzle with olive oil and vinegar. Stir gently to combine all those flavors before serving to keep the freshness intact.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your cravings! Avocado adds creaminess, feta imparts a salty zing, and fresh herbs like basil or mint elevate the dish further. You can even play with dressings—lemon juice or balsamic vinegar could work wonders!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover cucumber tomato salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you need to revive it later, give it a gentle stir and add a splash of olive oil or vinegar to refresh the flavors.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh vegetables for maximum crunch and flavor; stale produce leads to a sad salad
- Cut everything uniformly so each bite is a perfect mix of flavors
- And remember, let your salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving—this allows flavors to mingle beautifully
Sometimes, I whip up this cucumber tomato salad at gatherings, and it disappears faster than I can say “leftovers.” Everyone raves about how refreshing it is, making me feel like a culinary rockstar!
FAQs :
What are the main ingredients in a Cucumber Tomato Salad?
A classic Cucumber Tomato Salad typically includes fresh cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, red onion, and a dressing made of olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper. You can also add herbs like parsley or basil for extra flavor. The combination of crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes creates a refreshing dish perfect for warm weather. It’s versatile; you can customize it with additional ingredients such as bell peppers or feta cheese to suit your taste.
How do I store leftover Cucumber Tomato Salad?
To store leftover Cucumber Tomato Salad, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within one to two days for optimal freshness. After this time, the cucumbers may release water, making the salad soggy. If you anticipate leftovers, consider keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This will help maintain the crispness of the cucumbers and tomatoes.
Can I make Cucumber Tomato Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Cucumber Tomato Salad ahead of time. However, it’s advisable to add the dressing just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp. You can chop the cucumbers and tomatoes a few hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just mix everything together shortly before serving to enjoy the best texture and flavor.
What variations can I try for my Cucumber Tomato Salad?
There are numerous variations you can explore with Cucumber Tomato Salad. Adding ingredients like avocado, olives, or chickpeas can provide different textures and flavors. For a zesty kick, consider incorporating lime juice or adding jalapeños. Experimenting with herbs such as dill or mint can also enhance its freshness and appeal.
Conclusion for Cucumber Tomato Salad :
Cucumber Tomato Salad is a simple yet delightful dish that highlights fresh ingredients. Its main components include cucumbers and tomatoes tossed with a light dressing, making it an ideal side for any meal. The salad is easy to customize with various additions like herbs or other vegetables according to your preference. Storing leftovers properly ensures you enjoy this refreshing salad even days later without compromising its quality. Embrace this versatile recipe as a healthy option that brings vibrant flavors to your table all year round!
Cucumber Tomato Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cucumber Tomato Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings. This easy-to-make salad features crunchy cucumbers and juicy tomatoes, complemented by a light dressing of olive oil and balsamic vinegar. With its colorful presentation and delightful flavors, it’s an ideal side for barbecues or a light lunch on its own. Customize it with your favorite herbs or add-ins to suit your taste, making it a versatile staple that brings sunshine to any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cucumbers, sliced
- 2 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the cucumbers and tomatoes. Slice cucumbers into rounds and chop tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Thinly slice the red onion and combine it with the cucumbers and tomatoes in a mixing bowl.
- Add the chopped parsley for color and flavor.
- Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad mix. Toss gently to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper as desired.
- Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes for extra refreshment.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
