Cucumber Tomato Salad – 1 Refreshing Summer Recipe You’ll Love

As the sun shines brighter and the temperatures rise, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing salad to keep things cool and vibrant. Enter the Cucumber Tomato Salad—a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious! Whether you’re looking for a quick side for dinner or something light and healthy to enjoy on a warm day, this salad is a winner. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this step-by-step guide to creating a colorful bowl of goodness!

Why This Salad is a Winner

Cucumber Tomato Salad is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a celebration of fresh flavors. With crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a tangy dressing, each bite is a taste of summer. Plus, it’s incredibly quick to whip up—perfect for those busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Let’s get started!

Gathering Your Ingredients

Before we start chopping and mixing, let’s make sure you have everything you need. Here’s your shopping list for a basic yet flavorful Cucumber Tomato Salad:

• 2 medium cucumbers (English cucumbers are a great choice for their thin skin)
• 3 medium ripe tomatoes (vine-ripened or heirloom varieties will add great flavor)
• 1/2 red onion (finely sliced)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1/4 cup olive oil (go for high-quality
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (or lemon juice if you prefer a citrusy kick)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional for extra flavor)
• Feta cheese (crumbled, optional for those who love a creamy touch)

Step-by-Step Preparation

Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s break it down into simple steps. Don’t worry; this is easier than it looks!

Step 1: Wash Your Vegetables

Start by giving your cucumbers and tomatoes a good rinse under cold water. This helps remove any dirt and ensures your salad is fresh and clean.

Step 2: Slice the Cucumbers

Cut the cucumbers in half lengthwise. Then, slice them into half-moons or rounds, depending on your preference. If you’re using English cucumbers, you can leave the skin on for added texture.

Step 3: Chop the Tomatoes

Core the tomatoes and cut them into bite-sized pieces. The juicier, the better!

Step 4: Prepare the Onion

Peel your red onion and slice it thinly. If you find raw onion a bit too pungent, you can soak the slices in cold water for about 10 minutes to mellow the flavor.

Step 5: Chop the Parsley

Finely chop the fresh parsley and set it aside. This will add a lovely freshness to your salad!

Time to Mix It Up!

Step 6: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, toss together the sliced cucumbers, chopped tomatoes, onion, and parsley. It’s like a colorful party in a bowl!

Step 7: Make the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), salt, pepper, and oregano. This is where the magic happens!

Step 8: Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over your salad and toss gently to ensure everything is coated evenly.

Step 9: Chill (Optional)

For the best flavor, let your salad sit at room temperature for about 15-30 minutes, or pop it in the fridge for an hour. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Once your salad is ready, it’s time to serve! Transfer it to a beautiful bowl and consider garnishing with crumbled feta cheese for a creamy touch.

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or even as a light lunch on its own. Serve it alongside some warm pita bread or as part of a mezze platter for a delightful spread.

Insider Tips to Level Up Your Salad

• Herb Variations: Feel free to swap out parsley for fresh basil or mint to give it a unique twist.
• Add Crunch: Incorporate bell peppers or radishes for added texture and flavor.
• Dietary Adaptations: For a vegan version, simply skip the feta. You can also use avocado oil for a different flavor profile.

Wrap-Up

And there you have it—a delicious and refreshing Cucumber Tomato Salad that’s perfect for any occasion! This dish is not only a breeze to make but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to adapt it to your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Fun Fact: Did you know that tomatoes are technically a fruit? They belong to the nightshade family and were once thought to be poisonous in Europe! Now, they’re a staple in kitchens around the world.

So, gather your ingredients, invite a friend over, and enjoy a bowl of this delightful salad together. Happy cooking! 🥗🌿

Feel free to share this article on social media or print it out for your next cooking adventure! Enjoy your salad!