When the sun shines and summer beckons, there’s nothing quite as refreshing as a cucumber tomato salad. Crisp cucumbers mingle with juicy tomatoes in a dance of flavors that tickles your taste buds. Each bite delivers a burst of freshness that feels like a mini vacation on your plate.
This salad isn’t just about health; it’s about those sunny days spent outdoors, laughing and sharing stories with friends. You know the ones—the kind where you forget the time because the food is so good, and everyone is just so happy. This cucumber tomato salad is perfect for those occasions, bringing people together with its vibrant colors and tantalizing flavors.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cucumber tomato salad is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings
- The explosion of flavors will delight your palate, leaving you craving more
- With its beautiful array of colors, this dish adds visual appeal to any meal
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to complement grilled meats or stand alone as a light lunch
Growing up, my family often made this salad during our summer barbecues, and I can still hear my grandma’s laughter as she tossed the ingredients together.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Cucumbers: Choose firm, fresh cucumbers for crunch; English cucumbers are especially delightful for salads.
Tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes add sweetness; heirloom varieties bring extra flavor and color to your salad.
Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion provides a mild bite; soak it in water beforehand to mellow the flavor.
Fresh Herbs: Use basil or parsley for an aromatic lift; fresh herbs enhance the overall taste beautifully.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness; opt for high-quality oil for maximum flavor.
Vinegar: Balsamic or red wine vinegar brightens the dish; adjust according to your taste preference.
Salt and Pepper: Season generously to enhance all the flavors; freshly ground pepper works wonders here.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by washing the cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly. Cut cucumbers into half-moons and tomatoes into wedges for a balanced bite.
Slicing Onions and Herbs: Thinly slice the red onion and chop your chosen fresh herbs. If you’re using basil, roll it up before slicing to create beautiful ribbons.
Mixing It All Together: In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and herbs. Gently toss them together until they’re well mixed—a colorful display awaits!
Add Dressing Magic: Drizzle olive oil and vinegar over the salad. Sprinkle generous amounts of salt and freshly cracked pepper to enhance every bite. Toss gently again until everything glistens.
Tasting Time!: Before serving, take a moment to taste test! Adjust seasoning if necessary—this is where you become chef extraordinaire!
Enjoy this cucumber tomato salad chilled or at room temperature. It’s like summer captured in a bowl!
You Must Know
- This refreshing cucumber tomato salad is perfect for summer picnics or as a light side dish
- The vibrant colors and crisp textures will make your taste buds dance with joy
- It’s not just easy to make; it also brings a burst of freshness to any meal
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create the perfect cucumber tomato salad, chop your veggies first, then whisk the dressing while they chill in the fridge. This ensures every bite is crisp and bursting with flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to mix in some crumbled feta cheese, olives, or fresh herbs like basil or parsley. These additions can elevate the salad from delightful to dazzling.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Avoid reheating; this dish tastes best cold and fresh.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use ripe tomatoes for maximum flavor; underripe ones can be too acidic
- Fresh cucumbers add crunch; try English cucumbers for less bitterness
- Don’t skip the salt; it enhances all the flavors beautifully
Sharing this cucumber tomato salad recipe always brings back memories of summer barbecues at my aunt’s house, where laughter, food, and good times blended seamlessly together.
FAQ
What can I substitute for cucumbers in cucumber tomato salad?
Zucchini or bell peppers work well as alternative crunchy vegetables in this salad.
How long does cucumber tomato salad last?
This salad typically lasts up to two days if stored properly in the fridge.
Can I make cucumber tomato salad ahead of time?
Yes! Just dress it right before serving for optimal freshness and crunchiness.
Refreshing Cucumber Tomato Salad
This vibrant cucumber tomato salad is a quintessential summer dish that bursts with flavor and freshness. Crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes come together in a harmonious blend, making it the ideal accompaniment for picnics or casual gatherings. Quick to prepare and visually appealing, this salad enhances any meal, transforming bites into delightful experiences that evoke memories of sun-soaked days spent with friends and family.
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 2 cups firm cucumbers (sliced into half-moons)
- 2 cups ripe tomatoes (cut into wedges)
- 1/2 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley (chopped)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic or red wine vinegar
- Salt and freshly cracked pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Wash the cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers into half-moons and tomatoes into wedges.
- Thinly slice the red onion and chop the fresh herbs.
- In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and herbs. Toss gently to mix.
- Drizzle olive oil and vinegar over the salad, then season generously with salt and pepper. Toss again until well coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
