Cucumber Tomato Salad

Cucumber Tomato Salad is a delightful dish that brings a burst of freshness to any meal. With juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and vibrant herbs, all enveloped in a creamy dressing, this salad is a healthy and versatile addition to your menu. Perfect for spring and summer gatherings, it’s a dish you’ll find yourself making all year round. The best part? It stays fresh in the fridge for days, making it an ideal option for meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll adore this Cucumber Tomato Salad because it’s simple yet packed with flavor. The combination of tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions is timeless, offering a refreshing bite with every forkful. Plus, the creamy dressing ties everything together, making it a satisfying side or even a light lunch. Choose the freshest tomatoes you can find—if they’re garden-fresh, that’s even better!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or fork

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• Approximately 3 cups peeled & sliced cucumbers
• 3 Roma tomatoes, sliced into chunks
• ⅓ cup chopped red onion
• ¼ cup chopped fresh basil

For the Dressing:

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• ¾ cup apple cider vinegar
• ½ tablespoon red wine vinegar
• ½ teaspoon dill weed
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt & pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and fresh basil.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, red wine vinegar, dill weed, and sugar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine.
4. Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Tips for Success

• For extra flavor, let the salad marinate in the fridge for a few hours before serving.
• Use the freshest ingredients you can find, especially in the summer when produce is at its peak.
• Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking; a dash of garlic powder can add a nice touch.

Additional Tips and Variations

• Add feta cheese for a creamy, tangy twist.
• Incorporate sliced avocado for added creaminess and healthy fats.
• Switch up the herbs—try cilantro or parsley for a different flavor profile.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This salad is low in calories yet rich in vitamins A and C, thanks to the fresh vegetables. It’s also a good source of healthy fats from the olive oil in the dressing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, it actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours.
• How long will it last in the fridge? It should stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• Can I use different types of tomatoes? Absolutely, cherry or grape tomatoes work well too.

Conclusion

I hope you give this Cucumber Tomato Salad a try and enjoy its refreshing flavors as much as I do. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below or tag me in your photos on social media. Happy cooking!