Cucumber & Tomato Salad Recipe

Cucumber & Tomato Salad is a refreshing and healthy dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are having a picnic, a barbecue, or just a nice dinner at home, this salad can brighten up your meal. With its crisp vegetables and simple dressing, it’s a dish that is easy to prepare and full of flavor.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is not just tasty; it also packs a nutritious punch! Cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories, while tomatoes are rich in vitamins and antioxidants. The salad is quick to make, requires minimal cooking, and can be customized to your taste. It’s a great way to enjoy fresh seasonal produce and is ideal for anyone looking for a light and refreshing side dish.

How to Make Cucumber & Tomato Salad

Ingredients:

1-2 cucumbers, thinly sliced
2-3 medium tomatoes or a handful of cherry tomatoes, sliced
1/2 red onion, diced or thinly sliced
Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
2-3 tbsp olive oil
1-2 tbsp vinegar (apple cider or white) or lemon juice
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: A sprinkle of dried oregano or crushed red pepper for extra flavor

Directions:

In a large bowl, add the sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and diced red onion.
Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro over the vegetables.
Drizzle with olive oil, vinegar or lemon juice, and season with salt, black pepper, and any additional seasonings like oregano or red pepper.
Mix everything together until well-coated with the dressing.
Let it chill for a few minutes if desired, then serve as a light and crunchy salad!

How to Serve Cucumber & Tomato Salad

Cucumber & Tomato Salad can be served on its own or as a side dish. It pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or even as a topping for sandwiches and wraps. You can also add more proteins like feta cheese or chickpeas for a more filling meal.

How to Store Cucumber & Tomato Salad

If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best eaten within a day or two for the freshest taste. The vegetables can become soggy if stored too long, so keep that in mind!

Tips to Make Cucumber & Tomato Salad

Use the freshest vegetables for the best flavor.
For extra crunch, consider adding bell peppers or radishes.
Adjust the dressing to your taste; some prefer more vinegar or lemon juice, while others like it milder.
Chill the salad for 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Variation

You can easily customize this salad! Try adding avocado for creaminess, or throw in some olives for a briny kick. Adding roasted corn or beans can also make it heartier.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and mix them together a few hours before serving. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to keep it fresh.

2. Is there a gluten-free option?
Absolutely! This salad is naturally gluten-free, so you don’t need to worry about any gluten-containing ingredients.

3. Can I use different herbs?
Yes! Feel free to use any herbs you like. Basil or mint can add a wonderful twist to the flavor profile.

Enjoy making your Cucumber & Tomato Salad—it’s quick, easy, and allows you to enjoy the garden-fresh taste in every bite!