Refreshing Cucumber Tomato Salad: A Summer Delight

The crisp snap of a cucumber paired with the juicy burst of ripe tomatoes creates a harmony that sings summer. Picture this: a vibrant Cucumber Tomato Salad served at a barbecue, where laughter floats in the air like the scent of freshly grilled burgers. This dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also brightens any gathering with its cheerful colors and refreshing flavors.

As I recall sunny afternoons spent with family in the backyard, bowls overflowing with Cucumber Tomato Salad bring back memories of warmth and joy. It’s the perfect companion to any meal or simply as a standalone snack when you want to impress without breaking a sweat. You can’t help but anticipate the crispness of every bite, making it an ideal treat for picnics, potlucks, or lazy summer days.

Ingredients for Cucumber Tomato Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Cucumbers: Select firm cucumbers with smooth skin for that ultimate crunch; they are key to freshness.
• Ripe Tomatoes: Choose juicy tomatoes that smell sweet; they add vibrant color and flavor to your salad.
• Red Onion: A small amount of red onion gives a nice zing; slice thinly for the best flavor balance.
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds freshness; use flat-leaf parsley for better taste over curly varieties.
• Olive Oil: A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil enhances the salad’s richness; opt for high-quality oil if possible.
• Red Wine Vinegar: Adds acidity and depth; replace with lemon juice if you’re feeling zesty.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all flavors; adjust according to your palate preference.

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 Ingredients

Start by washing all your produce thoroughly under cold water. Slice the cucumbers into half-moons—this way they remain crunchy! Dice the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces and finely chop the red onion.

Step 2: Combine Vegetables

In a large mixing bowl, toss together the sliced cucumbers, diced tomatoes, and chopped red onion until evenly mixed. The colors should be bright and inviting!

Step 3: Add Fresh Herbs

Sprinkle in the chopped parsley for that hint of freshness. It’s like adding confetti to your salad—who doesn’t love confetti?

Step 4: Dress It Up

Drizzle olive oil and red wine vinegar over your vegetable mixture. Sprinkle salt and pepper generously (but not too much—you’re not trying to make it a salt lick). Toss everything gently until well-coated.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Let your salad chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows all those fantastic flavors to mingle together beautifully.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer your colorful Cucumber Tomato Salad onto plates or serve directly from the bowl at gatherings. It’s sure to steal the show!

This delightful Cucumber Tomato Salad will leave everyone asking for seconds (and maybe even thirds). So grab those fresh ingredients, channel your inner chef, and enjoy every crispy bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To create the best cucumber tomato salad, start by chopping fresh vegetables first, then mix them with your favorite dressing. Let the salad marinate for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this cucumber tomato salad by adding ingredients like feta cheese or olives. You can also switch up the dressing with balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of herbs for extra flair.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover cucumber tomato salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Refrain from reheating, as this dish is best enjoyed cold and crisp for maximum freshness.

Sharing this recipe always reminds me of summer barbecues where my friends devour my cucumber tomato salad within minutes! Their delighted faces tell me I’ve nailed the flavors every time.

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for Cucumber Tomato Salad?

To make a refreshing Cucumber Tomato Salad, you’ll need fresh cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, red onion, and parsley. For the dressing, combine olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. You can also add feta cheese or olives for a Mediterranean twist. This simple combination creates a vibrant dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings or as a side to your meals.

How can I store Cucumber Tomato Salad?

To keep your Cucumber Tomato Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to eat the salad within 1-2 days for optimal flavor and texture. If you know you’ll have leftovers, consider keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This prevents the vegetables from becoming soggy and maintains their crispness.

Can I customize my Cucumber Tomato Salad?

Absolutely! One of the best aspects of Cucumber Tomato Salad is its versatility. You can add ingredients like avocado, bell peppers, or even grains such as quinoa for added texture and nutrients. Additionally, experimenting with different herbs like dill or mint can enhance the flavor profile of your salad while keeping it fresh and exciting.

Is Cucumber Tomato Salad healthy?

Yes, Cucumber Tomato Salad is a healthy option packed with vitamins and minerals. Cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories while tomatoes offer antioxidants like lycopene. The addition of olive oil provides healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health. Overall, this salad is not only delicious but also contributes to a balanced diet.

Conclusion for Cucumber Tomato Salad:

Cucumber Tomato Salad is a delightful dish that combines freshness with simplicity. It features basic yet flavorful ingredients that make it perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it on its own or as a complement to your main course, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying. Remember to experiment with different ingredients to suit your taste preferences while enjoying all the health benefits this vibrant recipe offers.

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Cucumber Tomato Salad

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Cucumber Tomato Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that encapsulates summer’s essence. With its crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes, this salad adds a delightful burst of color and flavor to any gathering. Perfect as a side for barbecues or a light snack on warm afternoons, it’s easy to prepare and customizable with your favorite ingredients. Enjoy every crispy bite!

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups fresh cucumbers, sliced
• 2 cups ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar (or lemon juice)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Wash all produce thoroughly. Slice cucumbers into half-moons and dice the tomatoes.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, diced tomatoes, and red onion.
3. Add chopped parsley and toss gently to combine.
4. Drizzle olive oil and vinegar over the mixture; season with salt and pepper. Toss until well-coated.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
6. Serve chilled from the bowl or on individual plates.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: - For added flavor, consider including feta cheese or olives. - Keep dressing separate if storing leftovers to maintain crispness. - Experiment with different herbs like dill or mint for variety.