Cucumber Tomato Salad

If you’re looking for a refreshing dish that captures the essence of summer, this Cucumber Tomato Salad is just what you need! With its crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and zesty dressing, it’s a delightful burst of flavor. This salad is not only quick and easy to prepare but also perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. You’ll love how it adds a splash of color and taste to any meal!

Whether you’re enjoying a backyard barbecue or simply want something light for lunch, this Cucumber Tomato Salad is sure to impress. It’s a recipe that I come back to time and again because it’s so simple yet incredibly satisfying. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this salad!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip this salad together in no time!
• Fresh Flavors: The combination of cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs creates a vibrant taste that screams summer.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the colorful ingredients, making it a hit at the dinner table.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare this salad in advance and let the flavors meld in the fridge for an even tastier result.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with any main course or enjoy it on its own as a light snack.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking should be enjoyable, and using simple, wholesome ingredients makes it even better! Here’s what you need for this delightful Cucumber Tomato Salad:

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 apple cider 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)

Variations

What I love about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or radishes for extra texture.
• Make it creamy: Stir in some Greek yogurt or avocado for a richer dressing.
• Spice it up: Add jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes if you enjoy a bit of heat.
• Switch up the herbs: Try using mint or cilantro for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Veggies

Start by trimming off the ends of your cucumber. Halve it lengthwise and slice it into ¼-inch thick half rounds. This method ensures that every bite has that delightful crunch!

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, halved tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion. Mixing these fresh ingredients together creates a colorful base for your salad.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. This dressing adds zing to your salad and balances out the sweetness from the tomatoes.

Step 4: Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over your salad mixture and gently toss everything together. Be careful not to mash any of those juicy tomatoes! This step ensures all those lovely flavors meld perfectly.

Step 5: Add Fresh Herbs

If you’re using fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or basil, gently stir them into the salad now. They add an aromatic touch that elevates your dish! Serve right away or chill in the fridge for an hour—trust me; letting those flavors mingle makes all the difference.

Enjoy every bite of this Cucumber Tomato Salad! It’s not just food; it’s sunshine on your plate.

Pro Tips for Making Cucumber Tomato Salad

Making a refreshing cucumber tomato salad is a breeze, but a few tips can elevate your dish from good to great!

• Choose ripe tomatoes: Using fresh, ripe tomatoes will add a burst of flavor to your salad. Look for tomatoes that are firm yet slightly soft to the touch and have a vibrant color.

• Slice vegetables evenly: Cutting your cucumbers and onions into uniform pieces ensures even distribution of flavors and makes for a beautiful presentation. Aim for ¼-inch thick slices for the best texture.

• Chill before serving: Letting the salad chill in the refrigerator for an hour allows the flavors to meld beautifully. This step enhances the overall taste, making each bite more refreshing.

• Experiment with herbs: Adding different fresh herbs like mint or oregano can give your salad a unique twist. Fresh herbs not only boost flavor but also add an aromatic element that brightens the dish.

• Adjust the dressing to taste: Feel free to tweak the dressing by adding more honey for sweetness or vinegar for tanginess. Personalizing it will make the salad truly yours!

How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Salad

Presenting your cucumber tomato salad beautifully can make all the difference at your gathering or family meal. Here are some delightful ways to serve it!

Garnishes

• Feta cheese: A sprinkle of crumbled feta adds a creamy texture and salty bite that complements the crisp vegetables.
• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado can enhance richness while providing healthy fats, making every bite even more satisfying.
• Lemon zest: A light sprinkle of lemon zest right before serving adds brightness and an inviting aroma that draws everyone in.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers seasoned with herbs are perfect next to this salad, offering protein without overshadowing its freshness.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf mixed with vegetables is an excellent complement, providing nutty flavor and heartiness.
• Hummus and Pita Chips: Creamy hummus served with crunchy pita chips makes for a fun appetizer that pairs well with the fresh crunch of the salad.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies adds warmth and depth to your meal, creating a delicious contrast with the cool cucumber tomato salad.

Enjoy crafting this vibrant dish and sharing it with loved ones! It’s sure to be a hit any time of year!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cucumber Tomato Salad is perfect for meal prep, making it an excellent choice to whip up in advance for busy days. Not only does it keep well, but the flavors also deepen when allowed to sit, enhancing its refreshing taste.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It can be kept for up to 2 days; however, for the best texture, consume it within 24 hours.
• If you notice excess liquid in the container, simply drain it before serving again.

Freezing

• Freezing this salad is not recommended due to the high water content of cucumbers and tomatoes.
• The texture will change significantly upon thawing, making it less enjoyable.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat this salad; it’s best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.
• If stored in the refrigerator, give it a gentle toss before serving again to redistribute the dressing.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious Cucumber Tomato Salad!

Can I make Cucumber Tomato Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad tastes even better after chilling in the fridge for a while as the flavors meld together. Just prepare it a couple of hours before serving for optimal enjoyment.

What can I add to my Cucumber Tomato Salad?

Feel free to customize your Cucumber Tomato Salad! You can add ingredients like bell peppers, olives, or feta cheese (if desired) to enhance flavor and texture.

How long will Cucumber Tomato Salad last in the fridge?

Cucumber Tomato Salad will last about 2 days when stored properly in an airtight container. However, for the best taste and texture, try to eat it within 24 hours.

Is cucumber salad healthy?

Yes! This Cucumber Tomato Salad is low in calories and packed with vitamins and nutrients from fresh vegetables. It’s a great option for a light meal or side dish.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Cucumber Tomato Salad as much as I do! Its vibrant colors and refreshing flavors make it a wonderful addition to any meal or gathering. Whether you’re enjoying it on a sunny day or sharing with friends at a barbecue, it’s sure to impress. Happy cooking!