How to Make a Refreshing Tomato and Cucumber Salad

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

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Tomato and cucumber salad is a light, refreshing dish perfect for any meal or as a standalone snack. Bursting with flavor and packed with nutrients, this salad is easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste. Here’s a simple guide to creating a delicious tomato and cucumber salad.

Ingredients

To make a basic tomato and cucumber salad, you will need:

• Tomatoes: 2-3 medium-sized ripe tomatoes (heirloom, Roma, or cherry tomatoes work well)
• Cucumbers: 1 large cucumber (English cucumbers are great as they have fewer seeds)
• Red Onion: 1 small red onion (optional, for added flavor)
• Fresh Herbs: A handful of fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or dill
• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil for dressing
• Vinegar: Balsamic, red wine, or apple cider vinegar
• Salt and Pepper: To taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by washing the tomatoes and cucumbers thoroughly. If using regular cucumbers, you may want to peel them for a smoother texture, but leaving the skin on adds extra nutrients and crunch.

Step 2: Chop the Vegetables

1. Cut the Tomatoes: If using large tomatoes, slice them into wedges or chunks. Cherry tomatoes can be halved or left whole if they are small enough.
2. Slice the Cucumbers: Cut the cucumber in half lengthwise, then slice it into half-moon shapes or small rounds, depending on your preference.
3. Add Onions: If using red onion, thinly slice it and add it to the bowl for a sharp flavor kick.

Step 3: Mix Everything

Combine the chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion in a large bowl. Use a gentle tossing motion to mix the vegetables so they stay intact and don’t become mushy.

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and vinegar in a ratio of about 3:1, adding salt and pepper to taste. You can adjust the acidity by using more or less vinegar based on your preference.

Step 5: Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until all the ingredients are well-coated. Be careful not to overmix, as you want the pieces to remain intact.

Step 6: Add Fresh Herbs

Chop your choice of fresh herbs and sprinkle them over the salad. Herbs like basil or parsley add freshness and enhanced flavor.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Your tomato and cucumber salad is ready to be served! This dish can be enjoyed immediately, but letting it sit for 15-20 minutes can help the flavors meld together beautifully. Serve it as a side dish, over grilled protein, or as a refreshing light meal.

Tips for Customization

• Add Cheese: Crumbled feta or mozzarella can add creaminess to the salad.
• Include Avocado: Diced avocado adds healthy fats and a creamy texture.
• Experiment with Dressings: Use lemon juice or a yogurt-based dressing for a tangy twist.
• Crunch Factor: Consider adding bell peppers, radishes, or even olives for extra crunch and flavor.

Conclusion

Tomato and cucumber salad is a delightful dish with fresh ingredients. It’s quick to prepare, healthy, and refreshing, making it a perfect addition to any meal. Enjoy this salad on hot summer days or whenever you crave a light and tasty side! Experiment with flavors and ingredients to make it your own, and most importantly, enjoy every bite! For more variations and recipes, check out these websites: Food Network’s Cucumber and Tomato Salad, Simple Joy’s Cucumber Tomato Salad, and Mediterranean Dish’s 3-Ingredient Salad. You can also explore more easy recipes at Homemade Interest and Lean Green Bean. Check out our blog for other recipes. Happy cooking!