Refreshing Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe for Summer Fun

Crisp, refreshing, and bursting with vibrant colors, Cucumber Tomato Salad is the ultimate sidekick for any summer barbecue or picnic. Picture this: the crunch of fresh cucumbers mingling with the juicy sweetness of ripe tomatoes, all drizzled with a zingy dressing that makes your taste buds dance. It’s like a party in your mouth, and everyone’s invited!

I remember the first time I made this salad. It was a last-minute decision for a family gathering, and I was nervous. Would my culinary skills finally impress my relatives? Spoiler alert: they did! This Cucumber Tomato Salad quickly became the star of the show, stealing the spotlight from even Grandma’s famous potato salad. Trust me; this dish deserves a place at your table during those sunny afternoons or casual dinner parties.

Ingredients for Cucumber Tomato Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Cucumbers: Choose firm cucumbers for crunch; English cucumbers work great since they have fewer seeds.

• Ripe Tomatoes: Juicy tomatoes add sweetness; vine-ripened varieties pack the most flavor.

• Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion gives a slight bite; soak in water to mellow if too strong.

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds freshness and color; use flat-leaf for stronger flavor.

• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor; choose high-quality for the best results.

• Balsamic Vinegar: Adds acidity and sweetness; feel free to substitute with lemon juice if preferred.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all the flavors in the salad.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Veggies

Start by washing all your produce thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers into bite-sized pieces—no one wants to wrestle with oversized vegetables at dinner! Then chop your tomatoes into chunks that would make any salad lover proud.

Step 2: Slice the Onion

Next up, grab that red onion! Thinly slice it so that everyone can enjoy its flavor without being overwhelmed. If you find yourself crying like it’s an Oscar-winning movie scene, rinse the slices under cold water. It really works!

Step 3: Chop Fresh Parsley

Time to add some greenery! Finely chop your fresh parsley and toss it into your bowl along with the cucumbers and tomatoes. This step not only adds flavor but also brings life to your colorful creation.

Step 4: Whisk up the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined. This dressing is where the magic happens—it ties all those fresh ingredients together beautifully!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour that delightful dressing over your salad mixture and gently toss everything together. You want every piece of cucumber and tomato to be coated in deliciousness without turning into mush.

Step 6: Chill & Serve

For maximum flavor explosion, let your salad chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. This waiting period allows all those flavors to mingle and get cozy!

Transfer to plates as needed, making sure each serving looks as appetizing as it tastes.

Now you’ve got yourself an amazing Cucumber Tomato Salad that not only pleases the palate but also looks stunning on any table! Enjoy every crisp bite while basking in compliments from friends and family—you’ve earned them!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by chopping the cucumbers and tomatoes while mixing the dressing. Toss everything together just before serving to keep the veggies crisp and fresh. This sequence ensures a bright, delicious cucumber tomato salad every time.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your cucumber tomato salad by adding feta cheese, olives, or herbs like basil or parsley. Swap out vinegar for lemon juice or add a sprinkle of chili flakes for a little kick that makes each bite exciting.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Do not reheat; this salad is best enjoyed cold, ensuring the flavors remain vibrant and refreshing.

Sometimes I make this salad during family gatherings, and it never fails to impress my guests—I’ve even had my uncle declare it “better than dessert!” Who knew crunch could be so satisfying?

FAQs :

What are the main ingredients in a Cucumber Tomato Salad?

A classic Cucumber Tomato Salad typically includes fresh cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, red onion, and parsley. You can also enhance the flavor with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Some variations include feta cheese or avocado for added creaminess. The freshness of the ingredients is key to making this salad vibrant and delicious.

How can I make my Cucumber Tomato Salad more flavorful?

To elevate the flavor of your Cucumber Tomato Salad, consider adding fresh herbs such as basil or mint. You might also experiment with different dressings, like balsamic vinaigrette or yogurt dressing. Including additional vegetables like bell peppers or radishes can add crunch and color, making your salad even more appealing.

Is Cucumber Tomato Salad healthy?

Yes, Cucumber Tomato Salad is a healthy choice! It’s low in calories and packed with vitamins and minerals. Both cucumbers and tomatoes are hydrating and rich in antioxidants. This salad can be a great addition to your diet, especially during warm months when you want something light yet nutritious.

Can I prepare Cucumber Tomato Salad in advance?

You can prepare your Cucumber Tomato Salad in advance; however, it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp. If you must make it ahead of time, chop the cucumbers and tomatoes but store them separately from any dressings or delicate herbs until you’re ready to serve for optimal freshness.

Conclusion for Cucumber Tomato Salad :

In summary, a Cucumber Tomato Salad is a refreshing dish that combines simple ingredients for maximum flavor. By using fresh produce and experimenting with herbs and dressings, you can create a delightful side dish or light meal. This salad not only offers health benefits but also versatility in preparation. Enjoy this easy recipe for gatherings or as a solo treat on warm days!

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Cucumber Tomato Salad

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Cucumber Tomato Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings. This salad combines crispy cucumbers and juicy tomatoes, enhanced with a tangy dressing that awakens your palate. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s the ideal side for barbecues and picnics or can be topped with protein for a light meal. With its stunning colors and delightful crunch, this salad is sure to impress at any event.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups diced cucumbers (about 2 medium cucumbers)
• 2 cups chopped ripe tomatoes (about 3 medium tomatoes)
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice)
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Wash the cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly. Dice the cucumbers into bite-sized pieces and chop the tomatoes.
2. Thinly slice the red onion; soak in water if too pungent.
3. Finely chop the fresh parsley and add it to a large bowl with the cucumbers and tomatoes.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss until well coated.
6. Chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: No Cooking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 85
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg