The sun is shining, and the air is alive with the sounds of summer. Imagine biting into a crisp cucumber tomato salad, where the crunch of fresh cucumbers meets the juicy explosion of ripe tomatoes. This vibrant dish not only refreshes your palate but also dances playfully on your taste buds, making it an ideal companion for those lazy summer picnics or backyard barbecues.
Now, think back to that one hot afternoon when your friend awkwardly tried to impress everyone with his culinary skills and ended up serving a soggy mess instead. Cue the laughter! But fear not; this cucumber tomato salad will be your go-to recipe for those moments when you want to wow your guests without breaking a sweat. It’s colorful, bursting with flavor, and so easy to whip up that you might just want to make it every day.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cucumber tomato salad is incredibly simple to prepare, making it perfect for both experienced cooks and kitchen novices
- The fresh flavors burst in your mouth, creating a delightful experience for your taste buds
- With its bright colors, this dish adds a beautiful touch to any table setting
- It’s versatile enough for summer barbecues or as a light side dish year-round
There was that time my cousin brought this salad to our family reunion, and let me tell you—everyone was fighting over the last spoonful! It’s that good.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Cucumbers: Opt for firm cucumbers without blemishes; they’re easier to slice and add the ultimate crunch.
Ripe Tomatoes: Choose vibrant red tomatoes; their sweetness elevates the salad’s flavor profile significantly.
Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a delightful zing; soak it briefly in cold water to mellow its sharpness.
Fresh Parsley or Basil: Fresh herbs provide an aromatic kick; pick whichever you prefer for added freshness.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil; it brings richness and depth that complements fresh vegetables beautifully.
Balsamic Vinegar: A splash of balsamic vinegar adds tanginess; feel free to experiment with lemon juice for a zesty twist.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning enhances flavors; adjust according to taste preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Chop Your Veggies: Start by washing all your vegetables thoroughly under cold water. Slice the cucumbers into half-moons and chop tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Aim for uniformity; it makes for better presentation!
Prep Your Aromatics: Next up, thinly slice the red onion. If you’re concerned about its sharpness overpowering everything else, soak those slices in cold water for about five minutes. This little trick works wonders!
Toss It All Together: In a large bowl, combine chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and freshly chopped herbs. Mix gently with a wooden spoon until everything is evenly distributed—no rough housing allowed here!
Add Your Dressing: Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad mixture. Toss everything again until each piece gets coated in that luscious dressing—your taste buds will thank you later!
Season & Serve!: Finally, sprinkle salt and pepper over your salad according to taste preferences. Give it one last gentle toss before serving it up on a beautiful platter—because we eat first with our eyes!
This cucumber tomato salad is not just food; it’s an experience waiting to happen at your next gathering!
And there you have it: a delightful blend of flavors that screams summer! Whether you serve this at a picnic or enjoy it on your patio while watching the sunset, each bite transports you right into sunshine bliss. So go ahead—put on those chef gloves (or just wash your hands), grab those veggies from your fridge, and get ready to impress!
You Must Know
- This delightful cucumber tomato salad is fresh, vibrant, and a breeze to prepare
- The combination of juicy tomatoes and crisp cucumbers creates a refreshing side dish that pairs well with any meal
- Perfect for summer barbecues or light lunches, it adds color and flavor to your table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To whip up the perfect cucumber tomato salad, start by chopping the cucumbers and tomatoes while preparing your dressing. This ensures everything stays fresh and vibrant.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment by adding ingredients like feta cheese, olives, or even a splash of lemon juice for an extra zing. Customize it based on your personal preferences!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Avoid reheating; this salad is best enjoyed cold and fresh.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Choose ripe tomatoes for maximum flavor, as they enhance the salad’s overall taste
- Always slice cucumbers just before serving to maintain their crunchiness
- A little salt goes a long way in bringing out the flavors of all ingredients!
Sharing this salad recipe reminds me of sunny afternoons at family picnics, where laughter filled the air and everyone fought over the last scoop of salad.
FAQ
What can I add to my cucumber tomato salad?
Try adding avocado, bell peppers, or herbs like basil for extra flavor.
How long can I store cucumber tomato salad?
It’s best consumed within two days when stored in the fridge.
Can I use different dressings for this salad?
Absolutely! Olive oil, vinegar, or yogurt-based dressings work wonderfully too.
Cucumber Tomato Salad
Cucumber Tomato Salad is the perfect summer dish, bursting with fresh flavors and vibrant colors. This refreshing salad combines crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and zesty red onion, all tossed in a light dressing of olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Ideal for picnics or barbecues, this easy recipe will impress your guests without requiring much effort. Enjoy every bite as the flavors dance on your palate!
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cucumbers, sliced
- 2 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash vegetables thoroughly. Slice cucumbers into half-moons and chop tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Thinly slice red onion and soak in cold water for five minutes to reduce sharpness.
- In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and herbs. Mix gently.
- Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad. Toss until everything is coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side dish
- Method: No cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
