Cucumber Tomato Salad

This Cucumber Tomato Salad is the perfect dish for any occasion! With its crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and zesty dressing, it brings together fresh flavors that are sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a picnic, or just looking for a quick and healthy side dish, this salad has got you covered. Its vibrant colors and refreshing taste make it a standout on any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad comes together in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of fresh ingredients creates a delicious burst of flavor with every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for grilled meats or as a light lunch on its own.
• Healthy Option: Low in calories but high in nutrients, this salad fits well into any healthy eating plan.
• Customizable: Add your favorite herbs or other veggies for a personal touch!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to make the preparation seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all ingredients without spilling. A medium bowl works best for this salad.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending the dressing thoroughly to ensure even flavor throughout the salad.

Ingredients

This cucumber tomato salad is my favorite simple salad recipe! It has crisp cucumber, juicy tomatoes and red onion, all tossed in a tangy dressing. Quick and easy to make, it’s the best refreshing summer salad recipe!

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

For Garnish

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, dill and/or basil (optional)

How to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Trim off the two ends of the cucumber and then halve it lengthwise. Then slice it into ¼-inch thick half rounds.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Place the cucumber, halved tomatoes, and sliced red onion in a medium bowl.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together:
1. Olive oil
2. Red apple vinegar
3. Honey
4. Salt
5. Pepper

Step 4: Toss the Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to mix all ingredients evenly.

Step 5: Add Fresh Herbs

Gently stir in the fresh herbs if using. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for an hour or two to let the flavors meld together before serving.

Enjoy your refreshing Cucumber Tomato Salad!

How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Salad

Cucumber tomato salad is a versatile dish that pairs well with many meals. Its refreshing flavors make it perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or even casual weeknight dinners.

As a Side Dish

• This salad complements grilled meats wonderfully, adding freshness to rich flavors.
• Serve alongside roasted vegetables for a balanced meal that highlights seasonal produce.

In a Wrap

• Use cucumber tomato salad as a filling in wraps or pita bread for a light lunch option.
• Add some hummus or tzatziki for an extra layer of flavor.

On Top of Greens

• Elevate your salad by serving it over a bed of mixed greens.
• Drizzle with balsamic glaze for added sweetness and complexity.

With Grains

• Pair the salad with quinoa or couscous for a wholesome grain bowl.
• This combination creates a filling and nutritious meal option.

How to Perfect Cucumber Tomato Salad

To make sure your cucumber tomato salad shines, follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cucumbers and ripe tomatoes will enhance the flavor profile of your salad.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for an hour allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Balance the Dressing: Adjust olive oil and vinegar according to your taste preference; you can add more honey if you prefer sweetness.
• Experiment with Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or basil can elevate your salad’s taste—don’t hesitate to mix them up!

Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Tomato Salad

This cucumber tomato salad pairs beautifully with various side dishes that can complement its fresh flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken adds protein and pairs perfectly with the lightness of the salad.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn provides a delightful crunch and sweetness that matches well with cucumber and tomatoes.
3. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad brings extra texture and heartiness to your meal while keeping it light.
4. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes are satisfying and offer a delicious contrast in texture.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: These colorful peppers filled with rice or quinoa make an eye-catching platter next to your salad.
6. Caprese Skewers: Mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes on skewers create a fun appetizer that echoes your main dish’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cucumber Tomato Salad, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the overall flavor and texture.

• Skipping the salt: Not adding salt can lead to a bland salad. Sprinkle Kosher or sea salt on the vegetables to enhance their natural flavors.
• Using unripe tomatoes: Unripe tomatoes lack flavor and juiciness. Choose ripe grape or cherry tomatoes for a sweeter and more vibrant salad.
• Overdressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can drown out the fresh ingredients. Start with less dressing and add more if needed for balance.
• Cutting vegetables unevenly: Inconsistent sizes can result in an uneven texture. Aim for uniform cuts to ensure every bite is delightful.
• Making it too far in advance: Preparing the salad too early can lead to soggy ingredients. Make it close to serving time for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep it chilled at all times to maintain freshness.

Freezing Cucumber Tomato Salad

• Not recommended: Freezing this salad can cause the vegetables to become mushy upon thawing.
• If you must freeze, consider only freezing the dressing separately.

Reheating Cucumber Tomato Salad

• Oven: Not ideal; this salad is best served cold or at room temperature.
• Microwave: Avoid microwaving as it will wilt fresh ingredients.
• Stovetop: Again, not recommended; serve fresh for optimal taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Cucumber Tomato Salad last?

Cucumber Tomato Salad will last in the refrigerator for about 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I customize my Cucumber Tomato Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite herbs like basil or dill, or include other vegetables such as bell peppers or avocado.

What dressing works best for Cucumber Tomato Salad?

The simple vinaigrette made from olive oil and red apple vinegar complements the fresh flavors perfectly, but you can experiment with lemon juice or balsamic vinegar as well.

Is Cucumber Tomato Salad healthy?

Yes! This salad is low in calories and high in vitamins, making it a nutritious choice for a side dish or light meal.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare it a couple of hours ahead of time. Just remember that the longer it sits, the more moisture released from the vegetables.

Final Thoughts

This Cucumber Tomato Salad is not only refreshing but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect as a side dish for summer barbecues or even as a light lunch on its own. Feel free to customize it with various herbs and veggies according to your taste preferences. Give this simple recipe a try, and enjoy a burst of fresh flavors!