Fresh Tomato and Cucumber Salad with Red Onion and Herbs 🥗
A light, refreshing salad filled with fresh vegetables, vibrant herbs, and a simple, flavorful dressing! Perfect for a healthy snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
- 🥒 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
- 🍅 2 medium tomatoes, thinly sliced or diced
- 🧅 ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 🫒 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 🍋 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 🧂 ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 🧑🍳 ¼ teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 🌿 ½ teaspoon dried oregano (or fresh)
- 🌶️ ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 🌿 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped
Instructions:
1️⃣ Prepare the vegetables:
- Wash and slice the cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion. Place them in a large salad bowl.
2️⃣ Make the dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), salt, black pepper, and oregano until well combined.
3️⃣ Combine everything:
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
4️⃣ Garnish:
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley or dill.
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy:
- Let the salad sit for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to marinate and absorb before serving.
Recipe Notes & Tips:
- ✅ Use English cucumber: They have thinner skin and fewer seeds, making them ideal for this salad.
- ✅ Soak onions: If the red onion is too sharp, soak it in cold water for 10 minutes before adding it to the salad to mellow the flavor.
- ✅ Chill before serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for 20–30 minutes enhances the flavors and makes it even more refreshing.
- ✅ Add protein: For a heartier salad, toss in feta cheese or grilled chicken.
Servings & Nutritional Info
👩🍳 Servings: 2-3 people
📊 Per Serving (Approximate):
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Carbs: 10g
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 1.5g
- Fiber: 2.5g
Health Benefits 🌿
- 🥒 Cucumber: Hydrating, rich in antioxidants, and supports digestion.
- 🍅 Tomato: High in lycopene, which supports heart health and promotes glowing skin.
- 🧅 Red Onion: Rich in antioxidants, supports immunity, and helps with digestion.
- 🫒 Olive Oil: Provides healthy fats, promoting heart health and reducing inflammation.
Q&A 🤔
🔹 Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the salad a few hours in advance. For the freshest taste, it’s best to add the dressing just before serving.
🔹 What other herbs can I use?
Basil, cilantro, mint, or chives would work well as alternatives to parsley or dill.
🔹 Can I add cheese?
Absolutely! Adding feta, goat cheese, or mozzarella makes this salad even more flavorful and filling.
🔹 Can I make this into a meal?
Yes, this salad can easily be made into a meal by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a hard-boiled egg for extra protein.
Would you like to print or share this recipe? 😊 Enjoy your healthy, fresh, and tasty salad! 🥗