This Cucumber Tomato Salad is the perfect dish for any occasion, from summer barbecues to family dinners. Its combination of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy dressing makes it a refreshing choice that appeals to everyone. This salad is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to pair well with various main courses. Enjoy this delightful salad as a side or a light lunch option.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This salad can be whipped up in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables ensures vibrant flavors and nutritious benefits in every bite.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for grilled meats or as a stand-alone dish for lunch.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or other vegetables to make it your own.
- Light and Healthy: Low in calories and packed with vitamins, this salad supports healthy eating.
Tools and Preparation
Making this cucumber tomato salad requires minimal tools, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Bowl: A medium bowl is essential for mixing the salad ingredients without spilling.
- Knife: A sharp knife allows you to easily slice the cucumbers and onions for a uniform presentation.
- Cutting board: Protects your surfaces while providing a stable platform for cutting.
Ingredients
This cucumber tomato salad features simple yet delicious ingredients that come together beautifully.
Fresh Vegetables
- 1 English cucumber (no need to peel)
- 10 ounces grape or cherry tomatoes (halved)
- ½ small red onion (thinly sliced, about ½ cup)
Dressing Components
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red apple vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ½ teaspoon Kosher salt or fine sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, dill and/or basil (optional)
How to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Trim off the two ends of the cucumber and then halve it lengthwise. Slice it into ¼-inch thick half rounds.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Place the cucumber, halved tomatoes, and sliced red onion in a medium bowl.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red apple vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
Step 4: Dress the Salad
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Add Fresh Herbs
Gently stir in any fresh herbs you choose to use. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for an hour or two to let the flavors meld together before serving.
How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Salad
Cucumber tomato salad is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. This refreshing salad pairs well with many meals and can even be enjoyed on its own as a light snack.
As a Light Lunch
- Serve it alongside whole grain toast or pita for a nutritious meal.
- Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
With Grilled Meats
- This salad complements grilled chicken or steak perfectly, providing a cool contrast.
- Pair it with fish tacos for a refreshing side.
On a Bed of Greens
- Serve the cucumber tomato salad over mixed greens for added texture.
- Top it with avocado slices for creaminess and healthy fats.
As a Party Appetizer
- Use small cups to serve individual portions at gatherings.
- Pair with toasted bread or crispy crackers for dipping.
How to Perfect Cucumber Tomato Salad
To elevate your cucumber tomato salad, consider these simple tips that enhance flavor and freshness.
- Use fresh ingredients: Choose ripe tomatoes and crisp cucumbers to ensure maximum flavor.
- Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to sit in the refrigerator helps the flavors meld beautifully.
- Experiment with herbs: Try different herbs like basil or dill to add unique flavors.
- Adjust the dressing: Feel free to modify the dressing by adding more honey or vinegar based on your taste preference.
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 great options to consider.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky, this classic summer side complements the freshness of the salad.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread adds a satisfying crunch and enhances any meal.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A nutritious option that offers fiber and protein while balancing the lightness of the salad.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted zucchini or bell peppers bring warmth and depth to your meal.
- Hummus with Veggies: A delightful pairing that provides more crunch and flavor variety.
- Caprese Skewers: These skewers offer a twist on traditional Caprese while keeping it light and fresh.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a cucumber tomato salad, even small errors can impact the flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Using the wrong cucumber: Opt for an English cucumber as it has fewer seeds and a thinner skin, making it more enjoyable in salads.
- Cutting vegetables unevenly: Ensure that the cucumber and tomatoes are cut into similar-sized pieces for uniform flavor distribution and presentation.
- Overdressing the salad: Start with a small amount of dressing and add more if needed. This keeps the salad from becoming soggy.
- Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can elevate your cucumber tomato salad. Don’t skip them; they add great flavor!
- Not letting flavors meld: Allowing the salad to chill for at least an hour helps the flavors combine beautifully. Serve immediately for freshness or let it rest in the fridge.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Keep leftovers refrigerated to maintain freshness.
Freezing Cucumber Tomato Salad
- Not recommended: Freezing can alter the texture of cucumbers and tomatoes, making them mushy when thawed.
Reheating Cucumber Tomato Salad
- Oven: Not suitable for reheating; enjoy cold.
- Microwave: Avoid reheating; best served chilled.
- Stovetop: Unnecessary; serve directly from the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I customize my cucumber tomato salad?
Yes! You can add ingredients like feta cheese, olives, or bell peppers to enhance flavor.
What type of cucumbers are best for this Cucumber Tomato Salad?
English cucumbers are ideal due to their thin skin and fewer seeds, providing better texture.
How long can I store Cucumber Tomato Salad?
You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it a few hours before serving to allow flavors to meld, but don’t dress it until just before serving for optimal freshness.
Final Thoughts
This cucumber tomato salad is not only refreshing but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect as a side dish or a light meal on its own. Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or additional veggies! Try this simple recipe today and enjoy its crisp flavors during any season.
Cucumber Tomato Salad
This refreshing Cucumber Tomato Salad is the perfect addition to any meal, whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner. With its vibrant mix of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a tangy dressing, this salad delivers delightful flavors that everyone will love. It’s quick to prepare in just 15 minutes, making it an easy choice for busy days. Enjoy it as a light lunch, a side dish for grilled meats, or even as a healthy snack on its own! Customize it with your favorite herbs or additional veggies for an extra burst of flavor.
- Total Time: 11 minute
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1 English cucumber
- 10 ounces grape or cherry tomatoes
- ½ small red onion
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red apple vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables by slicing the cucumber into ¼-inch half rounds and thinly slicing the onion.
- In a bowl, combine cucumber, halved tomatoes, and sliced red onion.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, red apple vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat.
- Stir in any fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately or chill for flavors to meld.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: For added protein, consider topping with grilled chicken or chickpeas. Experiment with herbs like dill or basil for unique flavor profiles. Allowing the salad to chill enhances its taste.