Cucumber Tomato Salad

Cucumber Tomato Salad is a refreshing dish that perfectly combines the crispness of cucumbers with the sweetness of tomatoes. This salad is not only light and healthy but also incredibly versatile, making it an ideal side for summer barbecues, picnics, or any casual gathering. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors stand out, ensuring it will delight your guests and family alike.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Fresh Produce
• Seasonings
• Dressing Ingredients
• How to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad
• Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes
• Step 2: Prepare the Cucumber
• Step 3: Combine Ingredients
• Step 4: Make the Dressing
• Step 5: Assemble the Salad
• How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Salad
• As a Light Lunch
• With Grilled Meats
• As a Topping
• On a Bed of Greens
• With Cheese
• How to Perfect Cucumber Tomato Salad
• Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Tomato Salad
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Cucumber Tomato Salad
• Reheating Cucumber Tomato Salad
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I add other vegetables to my Cucumber Tomato Salad?
• How long does Cucumber Tomato Salad last?
• What variations can I try with this salad?
• Is this Cucumber Tomato Salad suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, this salad is perfect for those busy days when you need a healthy option.
• Bursting with Flavor: Fresh herbs and a tangy dressing elevate this dish, making every bite a delightful experience.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair this salad with grilled meats or enjoy it on its own for a light lunch; it’s adaptable to any meal!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and healthy fats from olive oil, this recipe supports a nutritious diet.
• No Cooking Required: Ideal for warm days when you want something cool and refreshing without turning on the stove.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Cucumber Tomato Salad efficiently, having the right tools is essential. These items will help streamline your preparation process and enhance your overall cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Glass measuring cup
• Mixing bowl
• Plastic wrap

Importance of Each Tool

• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting vegetables safely and effectively.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for uniform pieces, enhancing both texture and presentation.
• Glass measuring cup: Perfect for mixing liquids like dressings without spilling.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows ample space for tossing ingredients together without making a mess.

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

Dressing Ingredients

• 1/2 Cup Olive Oil
• 1/4 Cup Red Wine Vinegar
• 1 Squeeze Lemon Juice
• 3 Cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
• 1 teaspoon Brown Sugar
• 1 teaspoon Dried Basil (or 2 teaspoons fresh, chopped)

How to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes

1. Cut each tomato into 6-8 wedges.
2. Halve each wedge to create bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Prepare the Cucumber

1. Trim off both ends of the cucumber.
2. Slice it in half lengthwise to create two long pieces.
3. Chop each piece into 1/4 thick slices.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, toss the tomatoes with brown sugar, red onion, parsley, cilantro, salt, and pepper until well mixed.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

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

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

1. Pour the dressing over the tomato mixture in the bowl.
2. Cover with plastic wrap and let sit for 1-6 hours at room temperature or refrigerate if preparing longer in advance.

This Cucumber Tomato Salad is best enjoyed fresh on the same day it’s made. Serve it alongside grilled meats or as part of a garden-fresh meal!

How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Salad

Cucumber Tomato Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or as a refreshing side for any meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your salad experience.

As a Light Lunch

• Pair it with whole-grain pita bread for a nutritious and filling lunch.
• Add grilled chicken or shrimp on top to make it more substantial.

With Grilled Meats

• Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a delightful contrast of flavors.
• The fresh ingredients in the salad complement the smoky taste of grilled dishes beautifully.

As a Topping

• Use it as a fresh topping for tacos or burritos to add crunch and color.
• Layer it on sandwiches or wraps for an extra burst of flavor.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the salad over mixed greens like arugula or spinach for added texture.
• Drizzle with extra vinaigrette to enhance the overall taste.

With Cheese

• Crumble feta or goat cheese on top for a creamy addition that pairs well with the freshness.
• Serve with slices of mozzarella for a Caprese-inspired twist.

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How to Perfect Cucumber Tomato Salad

To ensure your Cucumber Tomato Salad reaches its full potential, follow these helpful tips. A few small adjustments can make all the difference!

• Use fresh ingredients: Always select ripe tomatoes and crisp cucumbers for the best flavor and texture.
• Marinate properly: Allow the salad to sit at room temperature or in the fridge before serving to let flavors meld together.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste and tweak salt, pepper, and vinegar levels according to your preference.
• Add crunch: Consider adding nuts like pine nuts or sunflower seeds for an extra layer of crunch.
• Experiment with herbs: Fresh basil or mint can bring new dimensions to your salad’s flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Tomato Salad

Cucumber Tomato Salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes, making it an ideal addition to any meal. Here are some delicious options:

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a smoky sweetness that complements the freshness of the salad.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender creates a hearty side dish.
3. Quinoa Tabbouleh: This herbaceous grain salad mirrors the Mediterranean vibe and enhances nutrition.
4. Hummus and Pita Chips: Creamy hummus with crunchy pita chips offers a satisfying contrast alongside the salad.
5. Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover dressing from the salad.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices provide a filling option next to your refreshing salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Cucumber Tomato Salad is simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect your dish’s taste and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong tomatoes: Not all tomatoes are created equal. Opt for small vine cocktail tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to season your salad properly with salt and pepper. This enhances flavors and makes each ingredient shine.
• Cutting ingredients unevenly: Aim for uniform sizes when cutting cucumbers and tomatoes. This ensures even distribution of flavors and a better presentation.
• Dressing too early: If you dress your salad too soon, the vegetables can become soggy. Dress it right before serving for optimal freshness.
• Ignoring freshness: Use fresh herbs and vegetables whenever possible. Fresh ingredients make a significant difference in taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Cucumber Tomato Salad in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Remember that the longer it sits, the more watery it may become.

Freezing Cucumber Tomato Salad

• Freezing is not recommended for this salad due to its high water content.
• If you must freeze, consider separating the dressing from the vegetables before freezing.

Reheating Cucumber Tomato Salad

• Oven: Not applicable for salads; best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
• Microwave: Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can make vegetables soggy.
• Stovetop: Again, not recommended; serve fresh for the best experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a Cucumber Tomato Salad:

Can I add other vegetables to my Cucumber Tomato Salad?

Yes! Feel free to add bell peppers, radishes, or avocado for extra flavor and nutrition.

How long does Cucumber Tomato Salad last?

When stored in the refrigerator, it lasts up to 2 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh on the day of preparation.

What variations can I try with this salad?

You can customize your salad by adding feta cheese, olives, or different herbs based on your taste preference.

Is this Cucumber Tomato Salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness.

Final Thoughts

This refreshing Cucumber Tomato Salad is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to complement many meals. You can customize it with your favorite herbs or additional veggies. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a burst of summer flavors!