Looking for a refreshing and vibrant side dish? This Cucumber and Tomato Salad is the answer! It’s a simple yet incredibly flavorful combination that’s perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to summer barbecues. Get ready for a burst of fresh, garden-inspired taste.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Cucumber and Tomato Salad is a winner because it’s incredibly easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers maximum flavor. The crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes are a classic pairing, elevated by a simple yet zesty dressing. It’s a healthy, versatile, and visually appealing dish that complements a wide range of meals. Plus, it’s the perfect way to showcase fresh, seasonal produce!
Ingredients
- 1 large cucumber, peeled, seeded, and sliced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the cucumber and tomato mixture.
- Gently toss everything together to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated.
- Stir in the chopped fresh parsley.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- For best flavor, let the salad sit for at least 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Expert Tips / Pro Tips
To ensure your cucumber and tomato salad is at its best, consider these pro tips. For cucumbers, English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers are excellent choices as they have thinner skins and fewer seeds, often eliminating the need for peeling and seeding. If using regular cucumbers, peeling and seeding will prevent a watery salad. Don’t overdress the salad initially; you can always add more dressing later. Letting the salad marinate for a bit allows the flavors to deepen and the vegetables to slightly soften, creating a more cohesive taste. Chop your vegetables uniformly for a better eating experience.
Variations & Substitutions
This Cucumber and Tomato Salad is wonderfully adaptable. For added richness, consider adding crumbled feta cheese or fresh mozzarella balls. Other great additions include Kalamata olives, chopped bell peppers (any color), or avocado chunks for a creamy texture. If you don’t have red wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar or even lemon juice can be used as a substitute. For a touch of sweetness, a pinch of sugar or a drizzle of honey in the dressing works well. Experiment with herbs like fresh dill or basil for a different aromatic profile.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant salad is a fantastic accompaniment to a wide variety of main courses. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, burgers, kebabs, or even a simple steak. It’s also a refreshing addition to any picnic, potluck, or barbecue spread. Serve it alongside pasta dishes, hearty soups, or as part of a light lunch with some crusty bread.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating
This salad is best enjoyed fresh. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. The vegetables may become a bit softer over time. This salad is not suitable for freezing, as the texture of the cucumbers and tomatoes will be compromised upon thawing. Reheating is not recommended, as this salad is designed to be served cold and fresh.
Nutrition Information
| Calories | ~80 kcal |
| Fat | ~5g |
| Saturated Fat | ~1g |
| Carbohydrates | ~8g |
| Sugar | ~4g |
| Protein | ~1g |
| Sodium | ~150mg |
| Fiber | ~2g |
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.
FAQ
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. It’s best to add the dressing closer to serving time, but if you mix it all together, let it sit for at least 20-30 minutes for the flavors to meld. Keep in mind that the vegetables will soften slightly the longer they sit.
Why is my salad watery?
A watery salad can often be due to the seeds and skin of the cucumbers. If you’re not using English or Persian cucumbers, it’s recommended to peel and seed regular cucumbers before slicing to reduce excess moisture.
What other vegetables can I add to this salad?
Feel free to add chopped bell peppers, corn, or even some thinly sliced radishes for an extra crunch and bit of spice!
How long does the dressing last?
The dressing, if made separately and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, can last for up to a week. However, it’s best to make it fresh when possible for optimal flavor.
Cucumber and Tomato Salad
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, chopped dill, and chopped parsley.
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic.
- Season the dressing with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Whisk again to combine.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl.
- Gently toss the salad to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Allow the salad to sit for at least 5-10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled.