There’s something magical about a Cucumber Tomato Salad that brings to mind sunny picnics and backyard barbecues. The crispness of the cucumbers, the burst of juicy tomatoes, and that zesty dressing dance on your palate like they’re auditioning for a culinary Broadway show. You can almost hear them singing, “Eat me!” as they beckon you closer. For more inspiration, check out this sun-dried tomato recipes recipe.
I still remember the first time I made this salad for a family gathering. My aunt, the queen of cooking, took one bite and declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” Little did she know that I was just trying to impress her with something simple yet delicious. This salad is perfect for summer get-togethers or when you need a quick side dish that looks as good as it tastes.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This Cucumber Tomato Salad is an effortless dish that dazzles with its fresh flavors. It takes only minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Vibrant colors and textures make it visually appealing on any table. It’s versatile enough to complement any main dish or stand alone as a light meal. [/info_box]
I vividly recall my brother’s face lighting up at our family barbecue when I served this salad; he couldn’t stop raving about its freshness.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Cucumbers: Select firm cucumbers with smooth skin for a refreshing crunch.
Cherry Tomatoes: Look for bright, plump ones; they should feel heavy for their size.
Red Onion: A small amount adds sharpness; opt for milder varieties if preferred.
Fresh Parsley: Use finely chopped parsley to add a burst of color and flavor.
Olive Oil: Choose high-quality extra virgin olive oil for richness in taste.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the flavors beautifully.
Salt and Pepper: A pinch of each elevates all the ingredients’ natural flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare the Vegetables: Start by washing your cucumbers and tomatoes under cold water. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference. Halve the cherry tomatoes for more bite-sized pieces.
Chop the Onion and Parsley: Finely chop about half of a red onion—adjust according to your taste—and chop fresh parsley until you have about a quarter cup ready. The aroma will be delightful!
Create the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, salt, and pepper. The dressing should be well-balanced; adjust proportions if needed to suit your palate.
Toss Everything Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and parsley. Drizzle over your homemade dressing and toss gently until everything is well coated.
Let it Chill Out!: Allow the salad to sit in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving so that flavors meld beautifully together. Trust me; patience pays off here!
This Cucumber Tomato Salad is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. With its vibrant colors and refreshing taste, it’s perfect not only as a side but also as a light lunch or snack! Keto-friendly watermelon salad. Baked salmon with cilantro lime.
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Cucumber Tomato Salad is a refreshing dish bursting with flavor. The crunch of fresh cucumbers paired with juicy tomatoes makes every bite delightful. Adding herbs elevates the taste and adds visual appeal, making it perfect for any gathering or picnic. [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Chop cucumbers and tomatoes first, then toss them with olive oil and seasonings. This sequence ensures flavors meld deliciously while keeping veggies crisp.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding feta cheese for creaminess or olives for a briny kick. Experiment with herbs like basil or mint to create your signature twist. Greek roasted potatoes.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Avoid reheating; this salad is best enjoyed cold and fresh.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] Use ripe tomatoes for sweetness; they transform the salad from ordinary to extraordinary. Don’t dress the salad until serving time to keep veggies crisp. Fresh herbs make a world of difference in flavor and presentation. [/info_box]
Creating Cucumber Tomato Salad brings back memories of summer barbecues; my family loved how vibrant and tasty this dish was, especially when served alongside grilled meats.
FAQ
Can I use other vegetables in Cucumber Tomato Salad?
Absolutely! Bell peppers or red onions add color and crunch, enhancing the dish’s appeal.
How long can I store Cucumber Tomato Salad?
You can store it in the fridge for up to three days without losing freshness.
What dressing pairs best with Cucumber Tomato Salad?
Stuffed shells with spinach and ricotta.
A simple vinaigrette or olive oil with lemon zest complements the salad beautifully, enhancing its flavors.
Cucumber Tomato Salad
Cucumber Tomato Salad is a refreshing, vibrant dish that captures the essence of summer in every bite. The crunch of crisp cucumbers combined with the sweetness of ripe cherry tomatoes creates an irresistible flavor profile, enhanced by a zesty dressing. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a light meal, this salad is quick to prepare and visually appealing. Impress your family and friends with this easy recipe that celebrates fresh ingredients and delightful textures.
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 2 cups cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash cucumbers and tomatoes. Slice cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons and halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Finely chop red onion and fresh parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and parsley. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently until coated.
- Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: For added flavor variations, consider mixing in feta cheese or olives. Fresh herbs like basil or mint can enhance the salad's taste. Always dress the salad just before serving to keep vegetables crisp.
