Cucumber Tomato Salad

Cucumber Tomato Salad is a refreshing dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of summer. This salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a light side to any meal. It combines juicy tomatoes and crispy cucumbers, dressed in a tangy vinaigrette that elevates its taste. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking for a quick and healthy snack, this salad will impress with its bright colors and delicious flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Tomato Salad

This salad is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor and nutrition.

• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delightful dish in no time.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of fresh herbs and vegetables makes every bite refreshing and satisfying.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to summer barbecues.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients, this salad is a guilt-free addition to your meals.
• No-Cook Recipe: Enjoy the ease of preparing a delicious salad without turning on the stove.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes assembling your Cucumber Tomato Salad simple and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients, ensuring even cuts.
• Sharp knife: Aids in easily slicing through tomatoes and cucumbers without bruising them.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all ingredients evenly for maximum flavor.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make the Cucumber Tomato Salad:

For the Salad

• 8 Small Vine Cocktail Tomatoes (not grape or cherry, but actual vine tomatoes)
• 1 English Cucumber
• 1 Pinch Brown Sugar
• 1/4 Red Onion (thinly sliced)
• 2 Tablespoons Parsley (fresh, chopped)
• 2 Tablespoons Cilantro (fresh, chopped)
• 2 Pinches Salt
• 2 Pinches Pepper

For the Dressing

• 1/2 Cup Olive Oil
• 1/4 Cup Red Wine Vinegar
• 1 Squeeze Lemon Juice
• 1 Pinch Pepper
• 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
• 3 Cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon Brown Sugar
• 1 teaspoon Dried Basil (or 2 teaspoons fresh, chopped)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by cutting each tomato into 6–8 wedges and then halve them.

Step 2: Slice the Cucumber

Trim both ends off of the cucumber. Slice it in half lengthwise to create two pieces. Cut these halves into 1/4 slices.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, toss together the tomatoes with brown sugar, thinly sliced onion, fresh parsley, cilantro, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a glass measuring cup, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, brown sugar, dried basil, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 5: Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over the tomato mixture. Mix gently to ensure everything is coated evenly.

Step 6: Chill Before Serving

Cover the salad with plastic wrap and let it sit on the counter for 1–6 hours. If making ahead of time for later use, refrigerate. This salad is best enjoyed fresh!

With these steps completed, you have an amazing Cucumber Tomato Salad ready to serve! Enjoy this vibrant dish alongside grilled meats or toasted crostini for a delightful meal experience.

How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Salad

Cucumber Tomato Salad is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to complement your meals. Whether you are hosting a gathering or enjoying a simple dinner, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

As a Refreshing Appetizer

• Start with small portions of the salad on individual plates. This is perfect for whetting the appetite before the main course.

With Grilled Meats

• Serve the salad alongside grilled chicken or fish. The freshness of the tomatoes and cucumbers balances the smoky flavors beautifully.

On Crostini

• Spoon the salad onto toasted crostini for a crunchy bite-sized treat. This makes for an excellent party appetizer.

As a Side Dish

• Pair it with heavier dishes like pasta or steak. Its lightness helps cut through richer flavors, making it a great addition to any meal.

In a Wrap

• Use the salad as a filling in wraps or pita bread. It adds freshness and texture to your favorite sandwich.

How to Perfect Cucumber Tomato Salad

To create the best Cucumber Tomato Salad, follow these helpful tips to ensure freshness and flavor.

• Choose ripe tomatoes: Opt for small vine cocktail tomatoes as they offer great flavor compared to other varieties.
• Slice evenly: Ensure all vegetables are cut into similar sizes for uniform taste and presentation.
• Let it marinate: Allowing the salad to sit for at least an hour enhances the flavors as they blend together.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley and cilantro elevate the dish, providing vibrant tastes and aromas.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed for balance.

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Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Tomato Salad

Cucumber Tomato Salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that can elevate any meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken pieces grilled on skewers provide a flavorful protein option.
2. Mediterranean Quinoa: A light quinoa dish mixed with olives and feta complements the fresh salad perfectly.
3. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread adds crunch and flavor that pairs well with this refreshing salad.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring warmth and depth alongside the coolness of the salad.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with rice or grains offer a satisfying contrast in texture and flavor.
6. Pasta Primavera: A light pasta dish filled with fresh vegetables harmonizes beautifully with cucumber tomato flavors.
7. Hummus Platter: A variety of hummus served with pita chips or veggies provides opportunities for dipping and sharing.
8. Cheese Board: An assortment of cheeses can enhance your meal, offering rich contrasts to the salad’s brightness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Cucumber Tomato Salad can be simple, but certain mistakes might compromise your dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch for:

• Using the wrong tomatoes – Ensure you choose small vine cocktail tomatoes for the best flavor. Avoid grape or cherry tomatoes, as they don’t provide the same taste or texture.
• Skipping the seasoning – Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper! These enhance all the fresh flavors. Taste and adjust before serving.
• Not letting it marinate – Allow your salad to sit for at least an hour. This lets the flavors meld together beautifully, making each bite delicious.
• Overdressing the salad – Use just enough dressing to coat the ingredients without drowning them. You want all flavors to shine through!
• Cutting vegetables unevenly – For a consistent taste and better presentation, cut your tomatoes and cucumbers into uniform sizes.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
• Allowing it to sit too long may cause sogginess.

Freezing Instructions

• Freezing is not recommended for this salad as the texture of cucumbers and tomatoes changes significantly when thawed.
• If necessary, consider freezing individual components separately.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven – Not applicable for salads; serve cold or at room temperature.
• Microwave – Not recommended; microwave will make vegetables mushy.
• Stovetop – Not suitable; this salad is best enjoyed fresh.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients are in Cucumber Tomato Salad?

The main ingredients include small vine cocktail tomatoes, English cucumber, red onion, fresh herbs, olive oil, and red wine vinegar.

How should I serve Cucumber Tomato Salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or toasted crostini. It’s perfect as a side dish for summer barbecues or picnics.

Can I customize my Cucumber Tomato Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or avocados. You can also swap herbs based on your preference.

How long can I keep Cucumber Tomato Salad in the fridge?

You can store this salad in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days in the fridge, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Final Thoughts

Cucumber Tomato Salad is not only refreshing but also versatile. You can customize it with various vegetables and herbs according to your taste. Try this recipe today and enjoy a healthy, vibrant addition to your meal!