Cucumber Tomato Salad

This Cucumber Tomato Salad is a delightful mix of fresh ingredients that brings the best of summer to your table. It’s the perfect side dish for barbecues, picnics, or just a light lunch on a warm day. The bright flavors of crisp cucumber, juicy tomatoes, and zesty red onion combine beautifully in this easy-to-make salad. With its refreshing taste and vibrant colors, this salad is sure to impress at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad takes only 15 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using raw vegetables ensures you get maximum nutrients and flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side dish or light dinner option; it pairs well with various main courses.
• Customizable Flavor: Add herbs or spices to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
• Refreshing Taste: The tangy dressing enhances the flavors of the vegetables, making each bite a burst of freshness.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing this Cucumber Tomato Salad easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows easy tossing of ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Helps blend the dressing thoroughly for even distribution over the salad.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables safely.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for uniform pieces, enhancing presentation.

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Ingredients

To prepare this delicious Cucumber Tomato Salad, gather the following ingredients:

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

Follow these simple steps to create your refreshing 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 cucumber, halved tomatoes, and sliced red onion in a medium bowl.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together:
2. Olive oil
3. Red apple vinegar
4. Honey
5. Kosher salt
6. Black pepper

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture in the medium bowl.
2. Toss gently to mix all ingredients evenly.

Step 4: Add Fresh Herbs

1. Gently stir in any fresh herbs if using.

Step 5: Serve

1. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for an hour or two to let the flavors meld together before serving.

Enjoy your vibrant and tasty Cucumber Tomato Salad as a wonderful addition to any meal!

How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Salad

This Cucumber Tomato Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it at a picnic, barbecue, or as part of a family dinner, there are many creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

As a Standalone Dish

• Enjoy it fresh and cool as a light lunch or snack.
• Perfect for hot summer days when you crave something refreshing.

With Grilled Meats

• Pair it with grilled chicken or turkey for a balanced meal.
• The tangy dressing complements the smoky flavor of the meat.

On Top of Greens

• Serve it over a bed of mixed greens for added texture and nutrients.
• This adds volume and makes it more filling without many extra calories.

As a Taco Topper

• Use it as a topping for tacos or burritos to add crunch and freshness.
• Its bright flavors will elevate any Mexican-inspired dish.

As Part of a Charcuterie Board

• Include this salad alongside cheeses, olives, and crackers.
• It adds color and freshness to the platter, making it visually appealing.

How to Perfect Cucumber Tomato Salad

To ensure your Cucumber Tomato Salad is always a hit, follow these simple tips for perfection.

• Use ripe tomatoes: Choose firm yet ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. Freshness enhances the overall taste.
• Chill before serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for an hour allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Slice vegetables evenly: Consistent sizes help with even mixing and presentation, making every bite enjoyable.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt or pepper according to your preference. Personalizing the seasoning can make all the difference.
• Add crunch with nuts: Consider adding toasted pine nuts or walnuts for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
• Experiment with herbs: Try different fresh herbs like mint or cilantro to create new flavor profiles each time you make it.

Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Tomato Salad

Cucumber Tomato Salad pairs well with various side dishes, making it easy to create a complete meal. Here are some excellent side options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers are perfect for grilling and offer protein that complements the salad’s freshness.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa dish adds fiber and protein while keeping your meal healthy and satisfying.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies provide warmth and earthy flavors that balance the coolness of the salad.
4. Hummus and Pita Chips: A creamy dip paired with crunchy pita chips makes for an easy appetizer before your main course.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled or boiled brings a burst of sweetness that pairs nicely with tangy salads.
6. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad tied together with similar dressing ingredients creates harmony in flavors across your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Cucumber Tomato Salad is simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome.

• Bold ingredient choices: Using overripe tomatoes can lead to a mushy salad. Choose firm, ripe tomatoes for the best texture and flavor.
• Bold cutting techniques: Cutting vegetables unevenly can affect presentation and texture. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even marination and an appealing look.
• Bold dressing balance: Adding too much vinegar can overpower the salad. Start with less and adjust according to your taste.
• Bold herb quantity: Overusing fresh herbs can make the salad taste overwhelming. Use them sparingly to enhance rather than dominate the dish.
• Bold chilling time: Not letting the salad chill can result in less flavor. Allow it to sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour for the best taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep refrigerated to maintain freshness.

Freezing Cucumber Tomato Salad

• This salad does not freeze well due to its high water content and texture changes.

Reheating Cucumber Tomato Salad

• Oven: Not recommended as this salad is best served cold.
• Microwave: Avoid reheating in the microwave; it will alter the texture.
• Stovetop: Not suitable for reheating; serve fresh or chilled.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Cucumber Tomato Salad.

Can I make Cucumber Tomato Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time but add the dressing just before serving for maximum freshness.

What variations can I add to my Cucumber Tomato Salad?

Feel free to add ingredients like bell peppers, feta cheese, or olives for extra flavor and texture.

Is Cucumber Tomato Salad healthy?

Absolutely! This salad is low in calories and packed with vitamins from fresh vegetables, making it a nutritious choice.

How long does Cucumber Tomato Salad last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, this salad lasts about 3 days before losing its quality.

Final Thoughts

This Cucumber Tomato Salad is not only refreshing but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or as a light side dish. Give it a try and enjoy its vibrant flavors!