Cucumber Tomato Salad

Cucumber Tomato Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, enjoying a picnic in the park, or simply looking for a light and healthy side, this salad fits the bill. The combination of fresh tomatoes and crisp cucumbers, enhanced by aromatic herbs and a zesty dressing, makes it a standout choice. Its quick preparation time and delightful flavors will make it a favorite among family and friends.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Fresh Produce
• Seasonings
• Dressing Ingredients
• How to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad
• Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
• Step 2: Combine Ingredients
• Step 3: Make the Dressing
• Step 4: Assemble the Salad
• Step 5: Let It Rest
• How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Salad
• As a Light Appetizer
• With Grilled Meats
• At Summer Picnics
• As a Topping
• With Crostini
• How to Perfect Cucumber Tomato Salad
• Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Tomato Salad
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Cucumber Tomato Salad
• Reheating Cucumber Tomato Salad
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I make Cucumber Tomato Salad ahead of time?
• What variations can I try with this Cucumber Tomato Salad?
• How do I store leftovers of Cucumber Tomato Salad?
• Is Cucumber Tomato Salad healthy?
• Can I use other herbs in my Cucumber Tomato Salad?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have this salad ready in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The mix of fresh herbs and tangy dressing elevates this simple dish to something extraordinary.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a side or main course; it pairs well with grilled meats or can be served alone.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables, this salad is low in calories but high in nutrients.
• No Cooking Required: Perfect for hot days when you want to avoid turning on the stove.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Cucumber Tomato Salad, having the right tools can make the process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Glass measuring cup
• Mixing bowl
• Plastic wrap

Importance of Each Tool

• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes cutting the tomatoes and cucumbers easy and safe.
• Mixing bowl: Ensures all ingredients are combined thoroughly for maximum flavor.
• Glass measuring cup: Ideal for whisking together dressing ingredients without spills.

Ingredients

Fresh Produce

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

Seasonings

• 1 Pinch Brown Sugar
• 2 Pinches Salt
• 2 Pinches Pepper

Dressing Ingredients

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

How to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Cut each tomato into 6-8 wedges before halving them.
2. Trim the ends off the cucumber and slice it in half lengthwise. Then slice into 1/4 pieces.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

1. In a mixing bowl, toss tomatoes with brown sugar, red onion, parsley, cilantro, salt, and pepper until well mixed.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

1. In a glass measuring cup, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, kosher salt, brown sugar, and dried basil.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

1. Pour the dressing over the tomato mixture and gently toss everything together until evenly coated.

Step 5: Let It Rest

1. Cover the salad with plastic wrap and let it sit on the counter for 1 to 6 hours or refrigerate if needed longer. Serve fresh for best taste!

This Cucumber Tomato Salad is not only easy to prepare but also embodies freshness that will elevate any meal!

How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Salad

Cucumber Tomato Salad is a versatile dish that can complement various meals. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

As a Light Appetizer

• Serve in small bowls for individual servings, topped with a sprinkle of feta cheese for added flavor.

With Grilled Meats

• Pair this refreshing salad with grilled chicken or fish. The acidity of the salad cuts through the richness of the meat.

At Summer Picnics

• Place in a large bowl for sharing, and enjoy with pita chips or crusty bread. It’s perfect for outdoor gatherings.

As a Topping

• Use as a topping on sandwiches or wraps. The freshness adds a delightful crunch and flavor.

With Crostini

• Spoon over toasted crostini for a simple yet elegant appetizer that guests will love.

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How to Perfect Cucumber Tomato Salad

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Cucumber Tomato Salad, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always select ripe tomatoes and crisp cucumbers for maximum taste.
• Let it Marinate: Allow the salad to sit for at least an hour before serving; this enhances the flavors.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice to your preference.
• Add Crunch: Incorporate diced bell peppers or radishes for extra texture and color.
• Use Quality Olive Oil: A high-quality olive oil will elevate the dressing’s flavor significantly.
• Experiment with Herbs: Try adding fresh dill or mint for a unique twist on this classic salad.

Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Tomato Salad

Cucumber Tomato Salad pairs wonderfully with many side dishes, making it an excellent choice for any meal. Here are some top picks.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers add protein and complement the freshness of the salad.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa dish mixed with herbs offers a hearty yet healthy option alongside the salad.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide warmth and depth to your meal.
4. Pasta Primavera: Tossed pasta with fresh vegetables balances well with the crispness of the salad.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains and beans make a satisfying side.
6. Hummus and Pita Chips: Creamy hummus served with crunchy pita adds variety and texture to your plate.
7. Baked Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness complements the tangy flavors of the cucumber tomato mixture beautifully.
8. Rice Paper Rolls: Fresh rolls filled with veggies offer a fun, light accompaniment that’s easy to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Cucumber Tomato Salad, it’s easy to make common mistakes that can affect the taste and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using the wrong tomatoes: Vine tomatoes are best for this salad. Avoid grape or cherry tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Skipping the seasoning: Forgetting to add salt and pepper can lead to a bland salad. Always season your ingredients before mixing.
• Not letting it marinate: Serving immediately can miss out on flavor development. Allowing the salad to sit enhances its taste.
• Cutting vegetables unevenly: Inconsistent cuts can lead to varying textures. Aim for uniform pieces for a balanced bite.
• Overdressing the salad: Too much dressing can overpower the fresh ingredients. Use just enough to lightly coat the salad.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Keep any leftover dressing separate if you want to maintain freshness.

Freezing Cucumber Tomato Salad

• Not recommended: Freezing alters the texture of fresh vegetables, making them mushy once thawed.

Reheating Cucumber Tomato Salad

• Oven: Not applicable as this salad is best served cold.
• Microwave: Not recommended; heating will affect freshness.
• Stovetop: Avoid reheating; serve chilled for optimal flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing a Cucumber Tomato Salad.

Can I make Cucumber Tomato Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge until ready to serve.

What variations can I try with this Cucumber Tomato Salad?

Feel free to add ingredients like feta cheese, olives, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.

How do I store leftovers of Cucumber Tomato Salad?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Is Cucumber Tomato Salad healthy?

Absolutely! This salad is low in calories and packed with vitamins from fresh vegetables.

Can I use other herbs in my Cucumber Tomato Salad?

Definitely! Basil, dill, or mint work well if you want different flavors.

Final Thoughts

Cucumber Tomato Salad is a light and refreshing dish that celebrates fresh ingredients and bright flavors. It’s versatile enough to pair with various meals or stand alone as a healthy snack. Customize it with your favorite herbs or additional veggies to make it your own!