Summer’s bounty is at its peak, and what better way to celebrate than with a vibrant and refreshing Cucumber Tomato Salad? This simple yet elegant salad is the perfect side dish for barbecues, picnics, or a light lunch. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal preparation and just a handful of fresh, seasonal ingredients. The bright, tangy dressing perfectly complements the crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes, creating a flavor explosion in your mouth. Forget complicated recipes; this Cucumber Tomato Salad is your go-to recipe for a quick and satisfying meal or side dish that will impress your family and friends. Its versatility allows you to customize it to your liking, making it a true crowd-pleaser, no matter the occasion. Get ready to experience the taste of summer with this effortless yet delicious salad.
Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe
This Cucumber Tomato Salad recipe isn’t just another salad; it’s a culinary experience! Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:
- Simplicity: With just a few common ingredients and minimal prep time, this salad is incredibly easy to make, even for beginner cooks.
- Freshness: The combination of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a zesty dressing creates a delightfully refreshing taste that’s perfect for warmer weather. It’s the epitome of a light and healthy meal.
- Versatility: This recipe is incredibly adaptable. Feel free to experiment with different types of tomatoes, add other vegetables like bell peppers or red onion, or even incorporate herbs like fresh basil or dill for a unique twist. You can even use it as a topping for grilled chicken or fish!
- Flavorful Dressing: The simple red wine vinegar dressing is the star of the show. It’s tangy, slightly sweet, and perfectly balances the flavors of the cucumbers and tomatoes. The olive oil adds a rich, smooth texture.
- Health Benefits: Packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, this salad is a healthy and nutritious choice. It’s low in calories and fat, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: The salad tastes even better after it’s had time to sit and allow the flavors to meld. Make it ahead of time and chill it for a truly refreshing experience.
This Cucumber Tomato Salad is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of fresh, simple ingredients and the joy of effortless cooking. Try it once, and you’ll understand why it’s a new summer favorite.
Why You Should Try This Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe
In a world of complicated recipes and time-consuming cooking, this Cucumber Tomato Salad offers a refreshing change of pace. Here are compelling reasons to add it to your culinary repertoire:
- Perfect for Beginners: This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, making it ideal for beginner cooks. The simple instructions and minimal ingredients ensure success every time.
- Quick and Easy: From start to finish, this salad can be prepared in under 15 minutes, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
- Budget-Friendly: The ingredients are readily available and inexpensive, making this a cost-effective meal or side dish option.
- Customizable to Your Taste: This recipe is a blank canvas. Add your favorite herbs, spices, or vegetables to create a unique and personalized salad that reflects your preferences.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a refreshing side dish, a light lunch, or even a topping for grilled meats or fish. Its adaptability makes it suitable for various occasions.
- Improves with Time: Unlike some salads that wilt quickly, this one actually gets better with time as the flavors blend together. Make it ahead and let it sit for a more intense flavor experience.
This Cucumber Tomato Salad recipe offers a delightful balance of simplicity, flavor, and versatility, making it a must-try for any home cook seeking a refreshing and delicious addition to their culinary repertoire. It’s the perfect embodiment of fresh, healthy, and easy-to-make!
Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Your Cucumber Tomato Salad
This section details the ingredients and tools you’ll need to create the perfect Cucumber Tomato Salad. Precise measurements and helpful tips are included to guarantee success.
Ingredients: A Detailed List
- 2 large cucumbers: Choose firm, crisp cucumbers for the best texture. English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers work particularly well due to their thinner skins and fewer seeds. Keyword: cucumber varieties
- 4 large tomatoes: Any type of tomato will work, from juicy beefsteak tomatoes to sweet cherry tomatoes. The variety you choose will impact the overall flavor profile of the salad. Consider heirloom tomatoes for a unique taste. Keyword: tomato types
- 1/2 red onion (optional): Red onion adds a sharp, pungent bite that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes. If you prefer a milder flavor, use less onion or omit it entirely. Keyword: red onion benefits
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar: Provides the tangy base for the dressing. Apple cider vinegar can be substituted for a slightly sweeter flavor. Keyword: vinegar types
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. Keyword: olive oil benefits
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds an earthy, slightly herbaceous note to the dressing. Fresh oregano can be used, but use about twice the amount. Keyword: oregano benefits
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of the ingredients. Adjust to your taste preference. Keyword: salt benefits
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of spice and complexity to the dressing. Freshly ground pepper is recommended. Keyword: pepper benefits
Utensils: The Tools of the Trade
- Large bowl: For combining the salad ingredients.
- Small bowl: For whisking the dressing.
- Whisk: To thoroughly combine the dressing ingredients.
- Cutting board: For safely preparing the cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion.
- Sharp knife: Essential for efficient and even slicing and chopping.
- Measuring spoons and cups: For accurate measurement of ingredients.
- Serving bowl: To present your beautiful Cucumber Tomato Salad.
Detailed Recipe Steps for a Perfect Cucumber Tomato Salad
Following these step-by-step instructions will guide you to creating a delicious and refreshing Cucumber Tomato Salad. Remember, attention to detail makes all the difference.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Wash the cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion thoroughly. Thinly slice the cucumbers using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer for even slices. Chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the red onion (if using). Tip: For a less watery salad, lightly salt the sliced cucumbers and let them sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out excess moisture before adding them to the salad. Gently pat them dry with a paper towel before proceeding.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Tip: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasonings to your preference. You might want to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or a dash of sugar if you prefer a sweeter dressing.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the sliced cucumbers, chopped tomatoes, and sliced red onion (if using). Important: Avoid overmixing, as this can bruise the vegetables and make the salad watery.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the cucumber and tomato mixture. Tip: For an even distribution of the dressing, gently toss the salad using two spoons or a large serving spoon, instead of vigorously shaking the bowl.
- Rest the Salad (Optional): Allow the salad to sit for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the dressing to soften the vegetables. This step is highly recommended, but if you’re short on time, you can skip it.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Cucumber Tomato Salad chilled or at room temperature. Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or dill, if desired. Serving Tip: For a more visually appealing presentation, arrange the cucumber and tomato slices artfully in the serving bowl.
Tips, Variations, and Troubleshooting for Your Cucumber Tomato Salad
This section offers valuable tips, creative variations, and solutions to common problems encountered when making a Cucumber Tomato Salad.
Variations on the Classic Recipe
- Add Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, dill, parsley, or chives add wonderful aromatic notes to the salad.
- Spice it Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce adds a nice kick.
- Add Other Vegetables: Bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), celery, or avocado can be added for extra texture and flavor.
- Feta or Goat Cheese: Crumbled feta or goat cheese adds a salty, tangy element.
- Vegan Version: Omit the cheese and use a high-quality olive oil for the dressing. Ensure that any other added ingredients are also vegan-friendly.
- Gluten-Free Version: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
- Overmixing: Avoid overmixing the salad, as this can bruise the vegetables and make it watery.
- Using Overripe Tomatoes: Use firm, ripe tomatoes to avoid a mushy salad.
- Adding Dressing Too Early: Allowing the salad to sit before dressing helps prevent the cucumbers from becoming too watery.
- Not Letting it Rest: Letting the salad sit for at least 15 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld properly.
Nutritional Values and Health Benefits of Cucumber Tomato Salad
This Cucumber Tomato Salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients beneficial to your health.
Approximate Nutritional Information (per serving, based on a 4-serving recipe): (Note: These values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 2-3 grams
- Fat: 10-15 grams (mostly healthy fats from olive oil)
- Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams
- Fiber: 2-3 grams
Health Benefits:
- Cucumbers: High in water content, hydrating and rich in vitamin K and antioxidants.
- Tomatoes: Excellent source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to reduced risk of certain cancers and heart disease. Also a good source of vitamin C and potassium.
- Red Onion: Contains quercetin, an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties.
- Olive Oil: Rich in monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. Also contains antioxidants.
- Oregano: Possesses potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
This Cucumber Tomato Salad is a refreshing and healthy addition to any diet. Its low calorie count, high fiber content, and abundance of vitamins and antioxidants make it a guilt-free way to enjoy the best of summer’s produce.
FAQs about Cucumber Tomato Salad
How long can I store leftover Cucumber Tomato Salad?
Can I use different types of vinegar in the Cucumber Tomato Salad dressing?
What are some other vegetables I can add to my Cucumber Tomato Salad?
Is this Cucumber Tomato Salad recipe vegan?
How can I make my Cucumber Tomato Salad less watery?
Conclusion: Your New Favorite Summer Salad
This simple Cucumber Tomato Salad recipe is a testament to the fact that sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most satisfying. With its bright flavors, refreshing texture, and ease of preparation, it’s the perfect addition to any summer gathering or weeknight meal. We’ve covered everything from ingredient selection and preparation techniques to variations and troubleshooting tips, equipping you with all the knowledge to create a truly delicious Cucumber Tomato Salad. Now it’s your turn! Try this recipe and share your experience in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family and check out our other delicious recipes on our blog, such as our Creamy White Chocolate Fudge or Muddy Buddies for a sweet treat. For more recipe inspiration, follow us on Pinterest: Pinterest Happy cooking!
Simple Cucumber Tomato Salad with Red Onion and Herbs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, chopped tomatoes, red onion (if using), fresh dill, and fresh parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the cucumber and tomato mixture.
- Gently toss to combine, ensuring all vegetables are coated in the dressing.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or vinegar to your preference.
- Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is optional, but recommended.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature. Garnish with extra fresh herbs if desired.