Did you know cucumbers are 96% water? They’re super hydrating. This makes cucumber tomato salad a great summer dish. I’m excited to share this healthy salad recipe with you today!
Imagine a bowl of crisp cucumbers and ripe tomatoes. Add some fragrant herbs and a tangy dressing. It’s a fresh vegetable celebration in just 5 minutes. This salad is not only tasty but also nutritious. With only 67 calories per serving, it’s a guilt-free treat that keeps you light and energized.
This salad is special because of its perfect mix of flavors and textures. The cucumbers’ crunch, tomatoes’ juiciness, and red onion’s zip are amazing together. Plus, with extra virgin olive oil and sumac, it tastes like the Mediterranean.
Ready to explore this refreshing world of flavors? Let’s start making your new favorite summer dish!
What Makes Cucumber Tomato Salad Special
Cucumber tomato salad is a refreshing garden salad that brings Mediterranean cuisine to your table. It’s simple yet vibrant, making it a great side dish for any meal.
Mediterranean-Inspired Freshness
This salad takes inspiration from Mediterranean cuisine. It combines crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and zesty red onions. A light vinaigrette brings it all together. Using fresh farmers market produce adds to its taste and health benefits.
Perfect Summer Side Dish
This salad is light and refreshing, perfect for grilled meats or fish. It’s best served cold, making it great for hot summer days. It’s most delicious when made fresh.
Health Benefits and Nutrition
This salad is not just tasty, it’s also nutritious. Here’s a quick breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 125 kcal
- Total fat: 10.5 g
- Protein: 1.6 g
- Total carbohydrates: 7.3 g
- Fiber: 2.1 g
Cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories. Tomatoes are full of vitamins and antioxidants. Together, they make a healthy and delicious salad. Enjoying it with produce from your garden or the local farmers market is a treat.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Salad
Making a tasty onion cucumber tomato salad starts with picking the right ingredients. It’s great for a light meal or a side dish. Let’s look at the key parts that make this salad so refreshing.
Choosing the Right Cucumbers
For the best taste and texture, pick 1 English cucumber or 2 Persian cucumbers. English cucumbers have thin, edible skin and tiny seeds, perfect for salads. Slice them thinly into rounds for a crisp bite.
Selecting Fresh Tomatoes
Go for 1 pint (2 cups) of cherry tomatoes for their sweet taste and thin skin. Quarter them for easy eating. In summer, heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes taste amazing. The fresher your tomatoes, the tastier your salad will be.
Additional Vegetables and Herbs
Add ½ medium red onion, cut into short strips, for a zesty kick. For extra freshness, include 2 tablespoons each of thinly sliced basil and chopped dill. These herbs make your onion cucumber tomato salad even better.
Dressing Components
Make an easy dressing for cucumber and tomato salad with 2 tablespoons each of olive oil and red wine vinegar. Add 1 teaspoon of sugar and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. This simple mix brings all the flavors together beautifully.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| English Cucumber | 1 | Sliced and halved |
| Cherry Tomatoes | 1 pint | Quartered |
| Red Onion | ½ cup | Thinly sliced (optional) |
| Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons | For dressing |
| Red Wine Vinegar | 2 tablespoons | For dressing |
Cucumber Tomato Salad: Step-by-Step Preparation
Making a delicious cucumber tomato onion salad is easy. Start by washing and chopping 3 cups of tomatoes and 2 cups of cucumbers into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice half a medium red onion. In a large bowl, combine these veggies with 1 tablespoon each of fresh dill and parsley.
For the dressing, whisk together 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon of sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. If you like it creamier, add a tablespoon of mayo to the mix.
Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently. Let it sit for about 20 minutes before serving. This quick prep makes 10 servings, each with only 69 calories.
Your cucumber tomato salad is now ready to enjoy! It’s great as a refreshing side dish or a light lunch. You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It’s perfect for busy weeks.
Creating the Perfect Dressing
The dressing makes your cucumber tomato salad stand out. A simple vinaigrette lets the veggies’ fresh flavors shine. It keeps the salad light and refreshing.
Basic Vinaigrette Recipe
To make a basic vinaigrette, mix olive oil and vinegar in equal parts. Red wine vinegar is great for a cucumber tomato salad. But, you can try white wine or apple cider vinegar too. Add a pinch of salt and some black pepper to taste.
Seasoning Tips and Variations
Want to spice up your creamy cucumber tomato salad? Try these:
- Squeeze in some fresh lemon juice for extra brightness
- Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for tang
- Mix in minced garlic or shallots for depth
- Stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or mayo for a creamier texture
Mixing and Coating Techniques
Start with a small amount of dressing and add more as needed. You want to lightly coat the veggies, not drown them. Gently toss the salad to ensure even distribution. Remember, you can always add more dressing, but you can’t take it away once it’s mixed in!
Pro tip: Make your dressing up to 5 days in advance for quicker prep. This homemade vinaigrette pairs perfectly with 3 cups of cucumbers and 1 ½ cups of halved grape tomatoes. It serves 4 people at just 92 calories per serving.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Now that you’ve mastered this refreshing salad, let’s explore how to serve it. This versatile dish pairs wonderfully with various main courses, making it a perfect addition to any meal.
Main Dish Combinations
Cucumber tomato salad shines alongside grilled meats or fish. Try it with juicy burgers, grilled chicken, or a perfectly seared salmon fillet. The cool crunch of english cucumber and the juicy sweetness of tomatoes complement hearty mains beautifully.
Temperature and Timing
For the best flavor, chill your salad in a small bowl in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and creates a refreshingly cool bite. The salad keeps well in the fridge for 2 to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
Presentation Ideas
Get creative with your presentation! Serve cucumbers and tomatoes in a large, colorful bowl for family-style meals. For a more formal setting, portion the salad into individual bowls. A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dash of salt and pepper on top adds a nice finishing touch.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 125 kcal |
| Total Fat | 10.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 7.3 g |
| Protein | 1.6 g |
Remember, a serving size is about 1 cup. This nutritious salad is not only delicious but also a healthy addition to your meal, packed with vitamins and low in calories.
Storage Tips and Make-Ahead Options
Got a busy week ahead? No worries! This cucumber tomato salad is perfect for meal prep. You can make the dressing ahead of time and keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. Mix red wine vinegar, olive oil, and your favorite herbs. Add sliced onions to soak up the flavors. This mixture stays fresh for up to 24 hours.
When you’re ready to serve, just toss in freshly cut cucumbers and tomatoes. Your side dish is ready in minutes! If you’ve already mixed the whole salad, it’ll keep for 2-3 days in the fridge. Just drain any extra liquid before serving.
For the best taste, enjoy your salad within a day or two. The veggies stay crisp, and the flavors meld perfectly. Remember, fresh herbs add the most punch when sprinkled on just before serving.
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Dressing + Onions | Up to 24 hours | Store in airtight container in fridge |
| Full Salad | 2-3 days | Drain excess liquid before serving |
| Best Flavor | 1-2 days | Add fresh herbs before serving |
Creative Variations and Add-ins
Make your cucumber salad more exciting with new twists! This dish is perfect for adding tasty extras. Let’s see how you can turn a simple cucumber tomato salad into a delicious meal.
Cheese Options
Give your salad a creamy twist with cheese. Crumbled feta adds a tangy taste. Fresh mozzarella balls bring a mild flavor. For a Mediterranean taste, try cubed halloumi or shaved Parmesan.
Additional Vegetables
Adding more veggies makes your salad healthier and crunchier. Mix in colorful bell peppers, crisp radishes, or creamy avocado chunks. Cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes add sweetness. Don’t forget to drizzle quality extra virgin olive oil for extra richness.
Protein Additions
Make your salad a filling meal with protein. Add grilled chicken strips, canned chickpeas, or flaked tuna. Vegetarians can try cubed tofu or hard-boiled eggs. These pair well with fresh basil, making the salad even tastier.
The secret to a great cucumber salad is using fresh ingredients and balanced flavors. Try these add-ins to find your favorite mix. Whether it’s for a quick lunch or a standout dish at a potluck, these variations will wow everyone!
Conclusion
Cucumber tomato salad has been a favorite for over a century. It combines crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and zesty onions. Recipes for this salad date back to 1908 in Texas.
Today, we’ve updated this classic salad. We use a large bowl to mix fresh ingredients like English cucumbers, plum tomatoes, and red onion.
This salad is simple yet versatile. It takes just 15 minutes to prepare and serves 6 to 8 people. The dressing, made from olive oil, red wine vinegar, and lemon juice, brings all the flavors together. Adding fresh dill gives it an extra burst of flavor.
Looking for a quick side or a dish for your next barbecue? This salad is perfect. It’s not only delicious but also healthy, with only 147 calories per serving. While it can be stored for up to 3 days, it’s best enjoyed fresh.
So, grab your ingredients and a large bowl. Start making your own fresh, homemade tomato salad today!
FAQ – Cucumber Tomato Salad
How long does cucumber tomato salad last in the fridge?
Cucumber tomato salad can stay fresh for 2-3 days in the fridge. Keep it in an airtight container. For the best taste, eat it within 24 hours.
Can I make cucumber tomato salad ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the dressing and onions up to 24 hours before. Add cucumbers and tomatoes just before serving to keep them crisp.
What’s the best type of cucumber to use for this salad?
English cucumbers are perfect because of their crispness and thin skin. Regular cucumbers also work well. Just peel them if the skin is thick or waxy.
Can I use different types of tomatoes in this salad?
Absolutely! You can use beefsteak, Roma, cherry tomatoes, or grape tomatoes. Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor.
What’s a good alternative to red wine vinegar in the dressing?
You can use apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar, or fresh lemon juice instead. This adds a different twist to the flavor.
How can I make this salad more filling?
To make it more filling, add protein like grilled chicken, chickpeas, or feta cheese. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or avocado.
Is there a way to make this salad creamy?
Yes, add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise to the dressing. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
What herbs work well in this salad?
Fresh basil, dill, and parsley are great choices. You can also try mint or oregano for different flavors.
Can I use olive oil instead of extra virgin olive oil?
Regular olive oil works, but extra virgin olive oil is better for flavor. The quality of the oil makes a big difference.
How do I prevent the salad from becoming watery?
To avoid excess water, lightly salt the cucumbers and let them sit in a colander for 30 minutes. This helps draw out moisture. Add the dressing just before serving.
Cucumber Tomato Salad
Ingredients
- English Cucumber – 1 sliced and halved
- Cherry Tomatoes – 1 pint quartered
- Red Onion – ½ cup thinly sliced (optional)
- Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons for dressing
- Red Wine Vinegar – 2 tablespoons for dressing
- Fresh Dill – 1 tablespoon chopped
- Fresh Parsley – 1 tablespoon chopped
- Sea Salt – 1 teaspoon
- Black Pepper – ¼ teaspoon
Instructions
- Wash and chop 3 cups of tomatoes and 2 cups of cucumbers into bite-sized pieces.
- Thinly slice half a medium red onion.
- In a large bowl, combine the vegetables with fresh dill and parsley.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, sea salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently.
- Let it sit for about 20 minutes before serving for enhanced flavor.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- Cucumber tomato salad can stay fresh for 2-3 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container.
- For best taste, consume within 24 hours to keep cucumbers crisp.
- You can prepare the dressing and onions up to 24 hours in advance.
- Adding a spoonful of Greek yogurt or mayo can make the salad creamy.
- English cucumbers work best due to their thin skin and crispness, but peeled regular cucumbers also work.
- To avoid excess water, lightly salt cucumbers and let them sit for 30 minutes before mixing with other ingredients.
