Cucumber Tomato Salad

Cucumber Tomato Salad is a refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or as a light side to any meal. This salad combines the crispness of fresh cucumbers with the juicy sweetness of vine tomatoes, creating a delightful balance of flavors. The addition of herbs and a zesty dressing elevates this simple dish into something truly special. Whether you serve it at a barbecue or enjoy it on its own, this salad is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Cucumber Tomato Salad comes together in just 20 minutes. Perfect for busy days!
• Fresh and Flavorful: Using fresh ingredients ensures every bite bursts with flavor, making it a standout dish.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy this salad as a side, atop grilled meats, or even as a light main course on warm days.
• Healthy and Light: Low in calories but high in taste, this salad fits perfectly into any healthy eating plan.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or dressings to make this salad truly your own.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing your Cucumber Tomato Salad is straightforward when you have the right tools on hand. Below are some essential items that will help streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sharp Knife
• Cutting Board
• Glass Measuring Cup
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Sharp Knife: A good knife makes cutting tomatoes and cucumbers effortless, ensuring clean cuts and beautiful presentation.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables without damaging your counters.
• Glass Measuring Cup: Ideal for whisking together dressing ingredients, allowing you to easily see measurements.
• Whisk: A whisk helps emulsify the dressing ingredients quickly for an even coating over your salad.

Ingredients

Fresh Produce

• 8 Small Vine Cocktail Tomatoes (not grape or cherry, but actual vine tomatoes)
• 1 English Cucumber
• 1/4 Red Onion (thinly sliced)
• 2 Tablespoons Parsley (fresh, chopped)
• 2 Tablespoons Cilantro (fresh, chopped)

Seasonings

• 1 Pinch Brown Sugar
• 2 Pinches Salt
• 2 Pinches Pepper
• 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
• 3 Cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon Brown Sugar
• 1 teaspoon Dried Basil (or 2 teaspoons fresh, chopped)

Dressing Ingredients

• 1/2 Cup Olive Oil
• 1/4 Cup Red Wine Vinegar
• 1 Squeeze Lemon Juice

How to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes

Cut each tomato into 6-8 wedges and then halve them. This allows the juices to mix well with other ingredients.

Step 2: Slice the Cucumber

Trim the ends off of the cucumber. Slice it in half lengthwise to create two pieces, then cut each piece into 1/4 slices.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, toss the tomatoes with brown sugar, red onion, parsley, cilantro, salt, and pepper until everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a glass measuring cup, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, brown sugar, dried basil, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

Pour the dressing over the tomato mixture. Gently toss until everything is well coated.

Step 6: Chill Before Serving

Cover with plastic wrap and let sit on the counter for 1-6 hours or refrigerate if preparing longer in advance. This dish is best served fresh but can be enjoyed later too!

Enjoy your vibrant Cucumber Tomato Salad alongside grilled meats or toasted crostini for an unforgettable meal!

How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Salad

Cucumber Tomato Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. It pairs beautifully with many meals and can also stand alone as a light snack or appetizer.

As a Side Dish

• Grilled Meats: This refreshing salad complements grilled chicken, steak, or fish perfectly, balancing the richness of the meat.
• Crostini: Serve the salad on toasted crostini for an easy yet elegant appetizer to impress your guests.

In a Wrap

• Wrap It Up: Use this salad as a filling for wraps along with your favorite protein for a quick lunch option.

On a Bed of Greens

• Salad Base: Serve it over mixed greens or spinach for added texture and nutrition.

With Feta Cheese

• Feta Crumble: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top for a salty kick that enhances the flavors of the salad.

As A Dip

• Veggie Dip: Serve it alongside fresh vegetables like carrots and bell peppers for a crunchy, healthy snack.

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How to Perfect Cucumber Tomato Salad

To make your Cucumber Tomato Salad truly shine, consider these simple tips.

• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh tomatoes and cucumbers for maximum flavor and texture.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for at least an hour enhances the flavors, making every bite delicious.
• Customize Your Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like dill or mint to give your salad a unique twist.
• Balance Your Dressing: Adjust the acidity by adding more lemon juice or vinegar according to your taste preference.
• Add Crunch: Include ingredients like bell peppers or radishes for an extra layer of crunch in each bite.

Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Tomato Salad

Cucumber Tomato Salad pairs wonderfully with many side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers add protein and complement the fresh flavors of the salad.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf offers a nutty taste that balances well with the crispness of the cucumber and tomato.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide warmth and depth, creating a satisfying meal alongside the salad.
4. Pita Bread and Hummus: Fresh pita bread dipped in hummus makes for an excellent pairing with this refreshing dish.
5. Baked Falafel: Crispy baked falafel adds flavor and texture, making it a hearty addition to your meal.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: These can be filled with rice or grains, making them hearty yet complementary to the lightness of the salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Cucumber Tomato Salad is simple, but there are some common mistakes you should avoid to ensure it turns out perfectly.

• Using the wrong tomatoes – Make sure to use vine tomatoes instead of grape or cherry tomatoes. Vine tomatoes provide the best flavor and texture for this salad.
• Skipping the herbs – Fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro are essential for flavor. Don’t leave them out; they elevate your salad significantly.
• Not letting it marinate – Allow the salad to sit for at least an hour before serving. This enhances the flavors as the ingredients meld together.
• Overdressing the salad – Be cautious with the dressing. Too much can overpower the fresh ingredients. Start with less, and add more if needed after tossing.
• Using low-quality olive oil – The olive oil is a key component of your dressing. Always opt for high-quality extra virgin olive oil for better flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Cucumber Tomato Salad in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
• Make sure to separate any leftover dressing if possible to avoid sogginess.

Freezing Cucumber Tomato Salad

• Freezing is not recommended as cucumbers and tomatoes lose their texture when thawed.
• If you must freeze, consider storing only the chopped herbs and dressing separately.

Reheating Cucumber Tomato Salad

• Oven – This salad is best served cold, so reheating isn’t necessary. However, if you need to warm it slightly, do so gently at a low temperature (around 300°F).
• Microwave – Similar to oven reheating, use low power and heat in short bursts to avoid cooking the vegetables.
• Stovetop – If preferred warm, toss on low heat briefly in a pan without overcooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a great Cucumber Tomato Salad?

A great Cucumber Tomato Salad combines fresh ingredients with a balanced dressing that highlights their natural flavors. Use high-quality tomatoes and olive oil for best results.

Can I add more vegetables to my Cucumber Tomato Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding veggies like bell peppers or avocados for added taste and nutrition.

How do I make this salad vegan?

The recipe is already vegan-friendly! Just ensure all ingredients used are plant-based.

What can I serve with Cucumber Tomato Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or as a refreshing side dish at barbecues and picnics.

How long does Cucumber Tomato Salad last in the fridge?

Properly stored in an airtight container, it lasts about 2-3 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

The Cucumber Tomato Salad is not only healthy but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with different herbs or add-ins based on your preferences. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or enjoying it as a light lunch, this refreshing salad is sure to impress!