The fresh crunch of vegetables, the burst of tangy flavors, and the delightful aroma combine perfectly in a tomato cucumber and onion salad. This dish is not just a salad; itβs a celebration of summer on a plate that dances with color and vibrancy.
Imagine a sunny afternoon barbecue, laughter echoing in the air, and this refreshing salad stealing the show amidst all the grilled meats. It brings back memories of family gatherings where everyone fights for seconds, and I can still hear my cousin proclaiming it βthe best thing ever.β The anticipation builds as you think about how this salad will elevate any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The tomato cucumber and onion salad is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Its fresh flavors complement nearly every main dish or can be enjoyed solo
- With its vibrant colors, this dish is a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds
- Perfect for picnics or barbecues but versatile enough to serve at formal dinners too
I vividly remember one backyard barbecue where my aunt brought her famous tomato cucumber and onion salad. Everyone was raving about it, asking for her secret recipe while I quietly took notes.
Essential Ingredients
Hereβs what youβll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ripe Tomatoes: Choose firm tomatoes with vibrant colors for maximum flavor; theyβre the star of the show.
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Cucumbers: Use fresh cucumbers; English cucumbers are my favorite because they have fewer seeds and a crisp texture.
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Red Onion: A little bit goes a long way; slice it thinly to avoid overpowering other flavors.
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Fresh Parsley: Adds a burst of freshness; always opt for flat-leaf parsley if possible.
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Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor; drizzle generously for richness.
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Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dish; bottled juice just doesnβt cut it.
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Salt & Pepper: Essential seasoning to bring out all those vibrant flavors; adjust to your taste preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Letβs Make it together
Get ready to whip up some magic in your kitchen with this simple yet delightful tomato cucumber and onion salad. Letβs dive into each step!
Prep Your Veggies: Begin by washing all your vegetables thoroughly under cool running water. Dice the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces, slice the cucumbers thinly, and cut the red onion into fine rings.
Mix It Up!: In a large mixing bowl, combine your chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions. Gently toss them together so they mingle beautifully without bruising any veggies.
Add Freshness: Chop your parsley finely and sprinkle it over the mixed vegetables. This step adds not only flavor but also a lovely pop of green that makes everything look gorgeous.
Dress It Right: Drizzle extra virgin olive oil over your salad along with freshly squeezed lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently until everything is coated evenly.
Let it Rest: Allow your salad to sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time lets all those amazing flavors marry together beautifully!
This tomato cucumber and onion salad can brighten any meal or stand proudly as its own star attraction. Whether youβre hosting friends or simply treating yourself to something fresh, enjoy every crunchy bite!
You Must Know
- This refreshing tomato cucumber and onion salad is not just a side dish; itβs a vibrant celebration of summer
- The crunchy texture paired with zesty flavors makes it a hit at any gathering
- Plus, itβs so easy to whip up that youβll impress everyone without breaking a sweat
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create the best tomato cucumber and onion salad, start by chopping your vegetables first. Then, mix the dressing while the veggies rest to soak in the flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this salad! Add feta cheese for creaminess, or toss in some olives for an extra briny kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps well for up to two days but is best enjoyed fresh.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When slicing cucumbers, use a sharp knife to avoid squishing them
- Always taste your dressing before adding it to ensure perfect seasoning
- Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can elevate your saladβs flavor immensely
Sharing this recipe always brings back fond memories of summer BBQs with friends, where this salad was devoured in seconds and left everyone asking for more.
FAQ
What type of tomatoes work best in this salad?
Ripe cherry or heirloom tomatoes give the best flavor and sweetness, enhancing the overall taste.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but itβs best served fresh as flavors can change when stored overnight.
How do I prevent my cucumbers from becoming soggy?
Salt your cucumbers before mixing them into the salad; this helps draw out excess moisture.
Tomato Cucumber and Onion Salad
- Total Time: 10 minute
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Savor the vibrant flavors of summer with this Tomato Cucumber and Onion Salad. Bursting with fresh vegetables, this dish combines juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and zesty red onions, all brought together with a simple yet flavorful dressing. Perfect for picnics or barbecues, this salad is both visually appealing and deliciously satisfying, making it a must-have at any gathering.
Ingredients
- 2 cups ripe tomatoes, diced (approximately 3 medium tomatoes)
- 1 cup English cucumber, thinly sliced (approximately 1 medium cucumber)
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse all vegetables under cool water. Dice tomatoes into bite-sized pieces, slice cucumbers thinly, and finely slice red onion.
- In a large bowl, combine diced tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, and red onions; toss gently to mix.
- Add chopped parsley to the bowl for added freshness.
- Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad; season with salt and pepper. Toss gently until well coated.
- Allow the salad to rest for about 10 minutes before serving to enhance flavor melding.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: For added creaminess, consider mixing in feta cheese or olives for a briny twist. To prevent soggy cucumbers, lightly salt them before combining them into the salad.