Cucumber Tomato Salad

This Cucumber Tomato Salad is a delightful, refreshing dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a light lunch, this salad brings together the crispness of cucumber and the sweetness of juicy tomatoes. Tossed in a tangy dressing, it’s not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor, making it an ideal choice for warm days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad can be prepared in just 15 minutes, making it a go-to recipe for busy days.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion creates a vibrant taste that enhances any meal.
• Versatile Dish: Serve this salad as a side or enjoy it on its own for a light meal; it pairs well with various cuisines.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables, this salad is low in calories while providing essential nutrients.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or additional veggies to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this Cucumber Tomato Salad efficiently, having the right tools is key.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to toss all ingredients together without spilling.
• Whisk: Using a whisk helps to blend the dressing ingredients smoothly for an even flavor throughout your salad.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing the vegetables easy and precise.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop your veggies while protecting your countertops.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 1 English cucumber (no need to peel)
• 10 ounces grape or cherry tomatoes (halved)
• ½ small red onion (thinly sliced, about ½ cup)

For the Dressing

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red apple vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• ½ teaspoon Kosher salt or fine sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, dill and/or basil (optional)

How to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Trim off the two ends of the cucumber and then halve it lengthwise.
2. Slice it into ¼-inch thick half rounds.
3. Place the sliced cucumber in a medium bowl along with halved tomatoes and sliced red onion.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red apple vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

1. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture.
2. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
3. If using fresh herbs, gently stir them in before serving.
4. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for an hour or two to let flavors meld together before serving.

Enjoy this refreshing Cucumber Tomato Salad with your favorite meals!

How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Salad

Cucumber tomato salad is a versatile dish that can complement many meals. Here are some creative ways to serve this refreshing salad.

As a Light Lunch

• Serve it on a bed of mixed greens for added nutrients and crunch.
• Pair with whole grain crackers or pita for a satisfying meal.

With Grilled Meats

• Enjoy alongside grilled chicken or turkey for a balanced plate.
• The tangy dressing enhances the smoky flavors of the meat.

As a Side at Barbecues

• Present it as a vibrant side dish at outdoor gatherings.
• Its coolness provides relief from the heat and complements hearty foods.

Topped on Sandwiches

• Use it as a topping for your favorite sandwiches to add freshness and texture.
• A spoonful on turkey or chicken sandwiches elevates the flavor profile.

How to Perfect Cucumber Tomato Salad

For the best results, consider these helpful tips when making your cucumber tomato salad.

• Select ripe tomatoes: Choose bright, firm tomatoes for maximum flavor and juiciness.
• Adjust salt levels: Taste and adjust the salt according to your preference; it’s key in enhancing flavors.
• Chill before serving: Allow the salad to sit in the fridge for an hour; this helps the flavors meld beautifully.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley, dill, or basil can elevate the taste and add lovely aromas.

Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Tomato Salad

Pairing cucumber tomato salad with other dishes can create a delightful meal. Here’s a list of excellent side dishes to complement your salad.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers
   Juicy pieces of chicken marinated and grilled, perfect for dipping into the salad’s dressing.

2. Quinoa Pilaf
   A light and fluffy side made with grains that absorb flavors well, making it a nutritious addition.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   Colorful veggies roasted until tender provide a warm contrast to the cool cucumber salad.

4. Potato Wedges
   Crispy potato wedges seasoned to perfection add heartiness and texture alongside your fresh salad.

5. Hummus with Veggies
   A creamy dip served with assorted raw vegetables makes for an easy appetizer that pairs nicely.

6. Stuffed Bell Peppers
   Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and ground turkey offer a satisfying dish that complements the lightness of the salad.

7. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn grilled or boiled makes an inviting side that adds sweetness alongside the tangy salad.

8. Pasta Primavera
   A fresh pasta dish loaded with seasonal vegetables provides another layer of flavor and texture to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the perfect Cucumber Tomato Salad, avoid these common mistakes that can affect flavor and texture.

• Using unripe tomatoes: Unripe tomatoes will be hard and lack flavor. Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best taste.
• Skipping the salt: Not seasoning your salad can lead to blandness. Always add salt to enhance the flavors of your ingredients.
• Overdressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can overwhelm the salad. Start with a small amount and add more as needed to achieve a balanced flavor.
• Chopping vegetables unevenly: Uneven pieces can lead to an inconsistent texture. Aim for uniform sizes for better presentation and eating experience.
• Making it too far in advance: Preparing the salad too early can result in soggy vegetables. Make it fresh or store it properly to maintain crispness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep in the fridge to maintain freshness and crunchiness.

Freezing Cucumber Tomato Salad

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh; freezing is not recommended as it alters texture and flavor.

Reheating Cucumber Tomato Salad

• Oven: Avoid using an oven as this salad is best served cold.
• Microwave: Not suitable for microwaving; serve cold for optimal taste.
• Stovetop: Not applicable; enjoy your Cucumber Tomato Salad chilled.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a Cucumber Tomato Salad.

Can I add other vegetables to my Cucumber Tomato Salad?

Yes! Feel free to incorporate bell peppers, radishes, or even avocados for extra flavor and nutrition.

How long does Cucumber Tomato Salad last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, it lasts up to 3 days.

What dressing works best with Cucumber Tomato Salad?

A simple vinaigrette made from olive oil and vinegar works wonderfully, but you can experiment with different dressings based on your taste.

Is Cucumber Tomato Salad healthy?

Absolutely! This salad is low in calories but high in vitamins and minerals, making it a great choice for a light meal or side dish.

Final Thoughts

This Cucumber Tomato Salad is not only refreshing but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various herbs and other vegetables according to your preference. Try this simple recipe today!

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Cucumber Tomato Salad

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Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this Cucumber Tomato Salad, a perfect dish for warm days and gatherings. The crispness of fresh cucumbers meets the sweetness of juicy tomatoes, all tossed together with a zesty dressing made from olive oil and red apple vinegar. This salad is not only quick to prepare—taking just 15 minutes—but also versatile enough to be served as a refreshing side at barbecues or as a light lunch on its own. Packed with nutrients and customizable with your favorite herbs, this salad is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves approximately 4

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 English cucumber
• 10 ounces grape or cherry tomatoes
• ½ small red onion
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red apple vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and pepper

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Instructions

1. Trim the cucumber ends, halve it lengthwise, and slice into ¼-inch half rounds. Place in a bowl with halved tomatoes and sliced red onion.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, red apple vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat. If desired, stir in fresh herbs before serving.
4. Serve immediately or chill for an hour to enhance flavors.

• Author: Sophia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: None
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 80
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg