DELICIOUS Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe
A refreshing and healthy cucumber tomato salad is perfect for any occasion. It’s light, packed with nutrients, and super easy to make. This vibrant salad brings together the crispness of cucumbers, the juiciness of tomatoes, and a tangy dressing to create a perfect dish for lunch, dinner, or as a side.
Ingredients (4 servings):
- 2 medium cucumbers (peeled and sliced)
- 3 medium tomatoes (diced)
- 1 small red onion (thinly sliced)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or fresh, if preferred)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Peel and slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons.
- Dice the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Thinly slice the red onion (you can soak the onion slices in water for a few minutes if you prefer to tone down their sharpness).
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, garlic powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Whisk until the dressing is well combined.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, add the cucumber slices, diced tomatoes, and red onion.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss everything together gently, ensuring the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top of the salad for added flavor and color.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to chill before serving for a refreshing cold salad.
Optional Variations:
- Cheese: Add crumbled feta cheese or shaved Parmesan for a creamy, salty contrast.
- Olives: Toss in some black olives or green olives for extra flavor.
- Avocado: Add diced avocado for a creamy texture.
- Herbs: Swap parsley with basil, mint, or dill for a unique flavor twist.
- Protein: To make it a more substantial meal, you can add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tuna.
Q&A: Common Questions About the Cucumber Tomato Salad
Q1: How long can I store this salad?
A1: This cucumber tomato salad is best served fresh, but you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. After that, the cucumbers might release more water, and the salad will lose some of its crunch.
Q2: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A2: Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and store them separately (diced veggies, dressing, and parsley). Assemble the salad just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp.
Q3: Can I use other vegetables in this salad?
A3: Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, radishes, or even leafy greens like spinach or arugula to diversify the salad and add more nutrients.
Q4: How can I make this salad spicier?
A4: If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can add finely chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the salad or dressing for an extra kick.
Q5: Can I add a different type of vinegar?
A5: Yes, you can substitute red wine vinegar with other types of vinegar, like apple cider vinegar, balsamic vinegar, or even white wine vinegar. Each will slightly change the flavor of the dressing.
Q6: How can I make the salad more filling?
A6: To make the salad more substantial, you can add protein like grilled chicken, tuna, or chickpeas. Adding quinoa or couscous also works well to bulk it up.
Q7: Can I make this salad for a larger group?
A7: Yes, you can easily scale up the recipe. Just increase the quantities proportionally based on the number of servings you need.
Conclusion:
This Cucumber Tomato Salad is a simple, delicious, and refreshing dish that will elevate any meal. With its combination of fresh vegetables, tangy dressing, and optional variations, it’s a perfect side for summer BBQs, weeknight dinners, or meal prep for the week ahead. Give it a try and enjoy the crisp, bright flavors!
Enjoy your refreshing Cucumber Tomato Salad!