Creating a refreshing Cucumber Tomato Salad brings back fond memories of summer picnics in my backyard. Crisp, juicy cucumbers paired with ripe tomatoes create a wonderful contrast in texture and flavor. This dish is not just beautiful to look at but also incredibly simple to whip up, making it a go-to recipe for potlucks, BBQs, or those hot days when you want something light yet satisfying.
Reasons to try it
This Cucumber Tomato Salad is perfect for a variety of occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Why will you love this dish? For starters, it is quick to prepare and budget-friendly, utilizing fresh ingredients that are often staples in your kitchen. Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults. The vibrant colors and farm-fresh flavors make it an ideal way to celebrate summer produce, and it comes together in just a matter of minutes.
“This salad is my go-to for summer cookouts! It’s so fresh and pairs beautifully with grilled meats. Plus, everyone always asks me for the recipe!” – Sarah, Cucumber Tomato Salad Fan
Step-by-step overview
Making Cucumber Tomato Salad is a breeze. Follow along as you gather fresh ingredients, whisk up a quick vinaigrette, and combine it all in a matter of minutes. This simple process allows the vibrant flavors to meld beautifully while keeping everything light and refreshing.
Gather these items
To create this delightful salad, you will need:
- 2 cucumbers, diced
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand. If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for green onions instead of red onions.
Step-by-step instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper to create your dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves for that extra burst of flavor.
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully.
Best ways to enjoy it
Dress up your Cucumber Tomato Salad as you wish! Serve it on a beautiful platter for a colorful centerpiece at your picnic table. For added flair, drizzle some balsamic reduction over the top or serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish. It also makes a refreshing side to hearty dishes like roasted vegetables or lentil salads.
Keeping leftovers fresh
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare but possible!), store your Cucumber Tomato Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The freshness of the ingredients is best enjoyed within this time frame to avoid losing their crispness and flavor.
Pro chef tips
To elevate your Cucumber Tomato Salad, use high-quality olive oil for the dressing as it enhances the overall taste. If time allows, letting the salad sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making every bite even more delicious.
Creative twists
Don’t hesitate to get creative! You can add ingredients like feta cheese for a creamy element, or avocado for a rich texture. Spice things up with a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh jalapeños if you like a little heat. Experimenting with herbs, such as dill or mint, can also provide a delightful new spin on this classic.
Helpful answers
What is the prep time for this salad?
The prep time is approximately 10 minutes, making it a quick and easy option for last-minute meals.
Can I substitute any ingredients?
Absolutely! You can swap cucumbers with zucchini or add bell peppers for some extra crunch. Any fresh herbs work well to enhance the flavor profile.
How can I make this salad gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy it worry-free as is!
With these tips and tricks, your Cucumber Tomato Salad will be the star of any gathering. It’s an easy, vibrant, and healthy dish that everyone will adore, and you’ll find yourself making it time and time again. Enjoy this refreshing recipe!
PrintCucumber Tomato Salad
A refreshing salad combining crisp cucumbers and ripe tomatoes, perfect for summer picnics and BBQs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cucumbers, diced
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper to create your dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves for that extra burst of flavor.
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. High-quality olive oil enhances the flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
