When the sun is high and the air is warm, there’s nothing quite like a quick and refreshing salad to cool you down. This Cucumber Tomato Salad is a perfect example of a dish that’s light, crisp, and bursting with fresh flavors, making it ideal for any occasion, from casual family dinners to elegant garden parties. The simplicity of this salad is what makes it so appealing—just a handful of fresh ingredients come together to create a vibrant, satisfying dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

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As the ideal summer dish, this salad showcases the best of what the season has to offer. The juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and sharp red onions provide a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. With the addition of fresh herbs and a light vinaigrette, each bite is a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory notes. This salad not only pleases the palate but also provides a refreshing escape from the heavier meals of colder months.

Ingredients Overview

The magic of this Cucumber Tomato Salad lies in its fresh and flavorful ingredients. The star of the show is the English cucumber, known for its crisp texture and mild flavor. When thinly sliced, it offers a refreshing crunch that forms the base of the salad. The tomatoes, preferably ripe and juicy, add a burst of sweetness and color, balancing the cucumbers perfectly. The red onion, sliced thin, brings a sharp bite that cuts through the richness of the olive oil, adding depth to the dish.

Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, and dill, though optional, elevate the salad to new heights. Their aromatic flavors complement the other ingredients and add a touch of elegance. Finally, the choice of olive oil and red wine vinegar is crucial. A high-quality extra virgin olive oil brings a fruity richness, while red wine vinegar adds a subtle tang that ties all the flavors together.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

To begin, start with the vegetables. The key to a great salad is uniformity in size, so take care to slice the cucumber thinly and evenly. This ensures that every bite offers the same satisfying crunch. When dicing the tomatoes, aim for pieces that are not too small, allowing their juicy texture to shine through. The red onion should be sliced as thin as possible to distribute its potent flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.

The dressing is simple yet essential. Drizzle the olive oil and red wine vinegar over the vegetables, ensuring an even coating. The ratio of oil to vinegar is important—too much vinegar can overwhelm the dish, while too little can leave it bland. Aim for a balanced mix that enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Once the dressing is added, gently toss the salad. This is where the magic happens, as the oil and vinegar blend with the juices of the tomatoes to create a light, flavorful coating on every piece. To bring everything together, refrigerate the salad for at least 20 minutes. This chilling process allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a more cohesive and delicious dish.

Recipe Tips

How to Customize the Salad: For those looking to add a bit more substance, consider tossing in some crumbled feta cheese or diced avocado. These additions provide a creamy contrast to the crisp vegetables and can make the salad more filling.
Making It Ahead: If preparing the salad in advance, keep the dressing separate until just before serving. This prevents the vegetables from becoming soggy and ensures the salad stays fresh.
Balancing Flavors: Taste as you go, adjusting the salt, pepper, and vinegar to your liking. A pinch of sugar can also be added if the tomatoes are not as sweet as desired.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Cucumber Tomato Salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. It complements grilled meats, such as chicken or steak, by providing a refreshing counterbalance to the richness of the protein. For a Mediterranean-inspired meal, serve it alongside lamb kebabs or falafel.

When it comes to presentation, this salad shines on a simple white plate, allowing the vibrant colors to pop. Garnish with a sprig of fresh herbs for an added touch of elegance. For drinks, consider a crisp white wine or a light, citrusy lemonade that will enhance the salad’s fresh flavors without overpowering them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Different Types of Tomatoes or Cucumbers? Absolutely! Cherry tomatoes or heirloom varieties can add a unique twist, while Persian cucumbers are a great substitute for English cucumbers.
How Long Can I Store the Salad in the Refrigerator? This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for up to 24 hours. Be sure to toss it before serving to redistribute the dressing.
What Are the Best Alternatives for Red Onion? If red onion is too strong for your taste, try using shallots or green onions for a milder flavor.

Variations to Try

For a Mediterranean twist, add some pitted Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese to the salad. The briny olives and tangy cheese create a more complex flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the fresh vegetables.

If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider incorporating thinly sliced jalapeños or red chili flakes for a spicy kick. This variation is perfect for those who like a little extra zing in their salads.

For a heartier option, try adding cooked quinoa or chickpeas to the mix. These ingredients add protein and fiber, making the salad more substantial and suitable as a main course.

This Cucumber Tomato Salad is the ultimate fresh and simple recipe, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors. It’s a versatile dish that can be easily customized to suit your taste, whether you prefer it light and refreshing or more substantial with added ingredients. With its vibrant colors and crisp, clean flavors, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your summer recipe rotation. So don’t be afraid to experiment—try different variations, adjust the seasoning to your liking, and make this recipe truly your own.

Ingredients

½ red onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2-3 large tomatoes, diced
1 English cucumber, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
Fresh herbs: parsley, basil, and/or dill, finely chopped (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumber, diced tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion. Drizzle the olive oil and red wine vinegar over the vegetables, then season with salt and pepper. For an extra burst of flavor, toss in some freshly chopped herbs like parsley, basil, or dill, if desired. Gently mix everything together until well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy this salad chilled.