Cucumber Tomato Salad

Cucumber Tomato Salad is a refreshing dish that brings together the bright flavors of summer. This salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a light side at dinner. With its crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes, this salad stands out for its freshness and versatility. Whether served alongside grilled meats or enjoyed on its own, it’s an ideal way to celebrate fresh vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This salad takes only 20 minutes to make, making it perfect for those busy days.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh herbs, olive oil, and vinegar elevates the taste.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side or main dish; it pairs well with a variety of meals.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and low in calories, it’s a guilt-free option.
• No Cooking Required: Enjoy this no-cook recipe that preserves the natural goodness of vegetables.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing Cucumber Tomato Salad a breeze. Here are some essential items to have on hand.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Chef’s Knife
• Cutting Board
• Glass Measuring Cup
• Mixing Bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for the tomatoes and cucumber, enhancing presentation.
• Cutting Board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients without mess.
• Glass Measuring Cup: Perfect for whisking together dressing without spills.
• Mixing Bowl: Ideal for tossing all ingredients together evenly.

Ingredients

To create your Cucumber Tomato Salad, gather the following 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)

Herbs and Spices

• 2 Tablespoons Parsley (fresh, chopped)
• 2 Tablespoons Cilantro (fresh, chopped)
• 1 Pinch Brown Sugar
• 2 Pinches Salt
• 2 Pinches Pepper

Dressing Components

• 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 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 and then halve them. This allows for easy mixing and even flavor distribution.

Step 2: Slice the Cucumber

1. Trim the ends off of the cucumber.
2. Slice it in half lengthwise to create two pieces.
3. Cut into 1/4 pieces to match the size of tomato wedges.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

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

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: Mix Everything Together

1. Pour the dressing over the tomato mixture in the bowl.
2. Stir gently until all ingredients are coated with dressing.

Step 6: Chill Before Serving

1. Cover with plastic wrap and let sit at room temperature for 1-6 hours or refrigerate if you need longer.
2. Best served fresh on the same day alongside grilled or toasted crostini bread!

How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Salad

Cucumber Tomato Salad is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this salad can complement your meal beautifully.

As a Side Dish

• Perfect with grilled meats for a refreshing contrast.
• Pairs well with fish dishes, enhancing the flavors without overpowering them.

On Crostini

• Serve on toasted crostini for a delightful appetizer. The crunch of the bread complements the freshness of the salad.

With Feta Cheese

• Crumble feta cheese on top for added creaminess and flavor. This pairing creates a Mediterranean twist.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Spoon the salad into lettuce leaves for a low-carb option. Great for those seeking healthy alternatives!

As Part of a Picnic Platter

• Include it in your picnic basket as part of a fresh vegetable spread. It’s light and easy to transport.

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How to Perfect Cucumber Tomato Salad

To ensure your Cucumber Tomato Salad is always delicious, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and cucumbers enhance the flavor immensely.
• Let it marinate: Allow the salad to sit for at least an hour before serving. This lets the flavors meld together.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste and season right before serving to keep everything balanced.
• Experiment with herbs: Try adding dill or mint for different flavor profiles. These herbs can elevate your dish even further.

Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Tomato Salad

Cucumber Tomato Salad pairs wonderfully with several side dishes that enhance its fresh flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken: Juicy chicken breasts seasoned simply, letting the salad shine alongside.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa dish that provides additional texture and protein.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies add depth and variety to your meal.
4. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread perfect for soaking up any excess dressing.
5. Pasta Primavera: A light vegetable pasta dish that complements the freshness of the salad.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers offer heartiness while keeping things light.

These side dishes not only elevate your meal but also make it more satisfying!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing a Cucumber Tomato Salad, it’s easy to make a few simple mistakes that can affect the overall taste and presentation.

• Using the wrong tomatoes: Ensure you use small vine cocktail tomatoes for the best flavor. Avoid grape or cherry tomatoes, as they can be too sweet.
• Neglecting the salt: Salt enhances the flavors of your salad. Be sure to season properly to avoid blandness.
• Cutting vegetables unevenly: Uniform cuts are key for even marination and presentation. Cut your cucumber and tomatoes into similar sizes.
• Making dressing too early: If you prepare the dressing in advance, it may become too strong. Mix it just before serving for a fresher taste.
• Not letting it sit: Allowing your salad to marinate helps develop flavors. Aim for at least one hour before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until just before serving for optimal freshness.

Freezing Cucumber Tomato Salad

• Not recommended: Freezing will lead to a mushy texture upon thawing. Enjoy fresh instead!

Reheating Cucumber Tomato Salad

• Oven: Not applicable, as this salad is best served cold or at room temperature.
• Microwave: Avoid microwaving; it alters the texture and flavor.
• Stovetop: Not suitable; serve fresh for the best taste experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cucumber Tomato Salad.

How do I make Cucumber Tomato Salad healthier?

You can reduce the amount of olive oil or substitute with a lighter vinaigrette. Adding more fresh herbs can also enhance flavor without added calories.

Can I add other vegetables to my Cucumber Tomato Salad?

Absolutely! You can customize by adding bell peppers, radishes, or avocados for extra crunch and nutrition.

How long should I let my Cucumber Tomato Salad sit before serving?

Allow at least one hour to let the flavors meld together, but it’s best served within 6 hours after preparation.

What are good pairings with Cucumber Tomato Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or as a refreshing side dish at any summer gathering.

Final Thoughts

The Cucumber Tomato Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for warm weather meals or gatherings. Its versatility allows you to customize it easily with various herbs and additional vegetables. We encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own!