Refreshing Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe for Summer Bliss

Imagine biting into a crunchy cucumber, the refreshing juice bursting forth with every munch. Now picture sweet tomatoes mingling with zesty dressing, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds. This cucumber tomato salad is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of summer, perfect for picnics or as a lively side at family barbecues.

Growing up, my grandmother would whip up this salad on hot days, her laughter filling the kitchen while we eagerly awaited its arrival. The mingling scents of fresh herbs and ripe vegetables still make my heart skip a beat. Whether it’s for a casual lunch or an elegant dinner party, this salad never fails to impress and delight everyone who digs in.

I remember one sunny afternoon when I served this salad at a picnic; my friends devoured it like they hadn’t eaten in days. Their delighted faces were priceless!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Fresh Cucumbers: Choose firm, unblemished cucumbers for the best crunch and flavor.

• Ripe Tomatoes: Use juicy tomatoes; vine-ripened ones offer the most sweetness.

• Red Onion: Thinly slice for a mild yet flavorful addition that brightens the salad.

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds color and freshness; don’t skip this herb!

• Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the dressing’s richness.

• Balsamic Vinegar: Use this for acidity and depth; it’s the secret to balancing all flavors.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the other flavors in the salad.

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

Let’s Make it together

Prep Your Veggies: Start by washing your cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly under running water. Cut the cucumbers into bite-sized pieces and slice the tomatoes into wedges.

Add Some Zing with Onion: Thinly slice your red onion; I recommend soaking them in cold water briefly to tone down their sharpness if you’re sensitive to strong flavors.

Toss in Fresh Herbs: Chop fresh parsley coarsely and add it to the bowl with your veggies. This will elevate the freshness of your salad significantly.

Whisk Up That Dressing: In a small bowl, combine olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Whisk together until well blended—this creates that delightful dressing that brings everything together.

Combine Everything Together: Pour your dressing over the chopped veggies and toss gently until everything is well coated. Be careful not to crush those delicate tomatoes!

Chill Before Serving: Let your cucumber tomato salad chill in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows all those fantastic flavors to mingle beautifully.

Now you have your refreshing cucumber tomato salad ready! Whether you serve it at a sunny picnic, alongside grilled meats at dinner, or just enjoy it as a light snack after work, this vibrant dish always brings smiles and satisfaction!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by chopping the cucumbers and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces, then toss them together in a bowl. Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the top, mixing it gently to combine all flavors beautifully while keeping the veggies crisp.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences. Add feta cheese for creaminess, or throw in avocados for an extra dose of healthy fats. Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can elevate the taste even further.

Storing & Reheating

Store your cucumber tomato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, avoid reheating; this dish is best enjoyed cold and fresh to retain its crunchy texture.

Sharing this recipe reminds me of summer picnics with friends where laughter filled the air as we devoured this salad, each bite sparking joy amidst delicious stories.

FAQ

What variations can I try in my cucumber tomato salad?

Experiment with adding olives or chickpeas for extra flavor and protein.

How do I keep my salad crunchy?

Always add dressings just before serving; this prevents sogginess in vegetables.

Can I use different types of tomatoes?

Absolutely! Cherry tomatoes or heirloom varieties bring unique flavors and colors to your salad.

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Cucumber Tomato Salad

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• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Cucumber Tomato Salad is a refreshing summer dish that combines crunchy cucumbers, sweet tomatoes, and zesty dressing for a flavor-packed experience. Perfect as a side at barbecues or enjoyed on its own, this vibrant salad is easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests. With fresh herbs and simple ingredients, it embodies the essence of summer gatherings, making every bite a joyful celebration of seasonal flavors.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups fresh cucumbers, diced
• 2 cups ripe tomatoes, wedged
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Rinse and chop the cucumbers and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
2. Thinly slice the red onion; soak in cold water if desired to reduce sharpness.
3. In a bowl, mix the cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and parsley.
4. Whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar; pour over the veggies.
5. Toss gently to coat without crushing the tomatoes.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Side
• Method: No-cook
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 110
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Add feta cheese or avocado for extra creaminess. Experiment with herbs like basil or cilantro for varied flavors. Serve immediately after adding dressing to maintain crunch.