Cucumber Onion and Tomato Salad

A cool salad on a warm (or hot) summer day sounds like just the way to beat the heat. As much as we love fresh lettuce and veggies tossed with a vinaigrette, especially because it’s just so easy to do, we also love cucumber salad. It’s crisp and refreshing, exactly what we’re looking for when we want to avoid the stove or oven at all costs. A creamy cucumber salad offers the perfect combination of cool and crunch, and it’s a great alternative to potato salad. Here’s how we make it.

The recipe itself is simple: sliced cucumbers, sour cream, a little lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper. It really can’t get much easier. We add a little bit of sugar too, to offer sweetness and cut the acidity, but it’s not vital to the overall taste. The end result is a salad that is perfect for lunch or dinner; easily taken to a potluck or served with a barbecue. Actually, we really like this as a side dish to our favorite barbecue ribs. We went with English cucumbers here, they’re considered seedless, although there are some small seeds inside (the seeds of a cucumber tend to be a bit bitter). But don’t go fancy here – just grab a few cucumbers at the store and enjoy!

We think a cucumber salad is a great way to satisfy salad lovers and haters. Not everyone loves salad, but when it’s coated in just the right amount of creaminess, it’s a guaranteed crowd pleaser. Cucumber salad is a retro classic that everyone can enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cucumber Onion and Tomato Salad is a refreshing and light dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of meals. It’s particularly wonderful during the summer months when you want something cool and crisp. Plus, it’s ridiculously easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch option or a side dish for a barbecue, this salad fits the bill.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon

Ingredients

• 3 tomatoes
• 3 cucumbers
• 1 onion
• ½ cup of apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp of cracked pepper
• 2 tbsps of sugar (optional)
• 2 tsps of salt
• 1 cup of water
• ¼ cup of olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Begin by washing the tomatoes and cucumbers thoroughly. Peel the cucumbers if desired, although leaving the skin on can add extra crunch.
2. Slice the tomatoes, cucumbers, and onion into thin slices and place them in a large mixing bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the apple cider vinegar, cracked pepper, sugar, salt, water, and olive oil. Stir until the sugar and salt are dissolved.
4. Pour the dressing over the sliced vegetables and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for 1 to 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
6. Before serving, give the salad a quick toss to redistribute the dressing.

Tips for Success

For the best flavor, allow the salad to marinate in the refrigerator for a couple of hours before serving. This helps the vegetables absorb the dressing and enhances the overall taste. If you prefer a slightly sweeter salad, don’t hesitate to add the optional sugar. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference.

Additional Tips or Variations

Feel free to add other fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an extra burst of flavor. You can also include sliced bell peppers or radishes for additional color and crunch. For a creamier version, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or yogurt to the dressing.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This salad is low in calories and packed with vitamins. It’s a great source of hydration due to its high water content and provides a good dose of vitamin C and antioxidants from the tomatoes and cucumbers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

What can I serve with this salad?
This salad pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a picnic spread.

Is this salad suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! This salad is completely vegan as is, but always check the labels on any additional ingredients you might add.

Conclusion

This Cucumber Onion and Tomato Salad is a simple yet delightful dish that will leave you feeling refreshed and satisfied. We hope you give it a try and enjoy its crisp flavors as much as we do. If you do make it, we’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Feel free to share your experience and any tweaks you made to the recipe. Happy cooking!