If you're searching for a light, refreshing, and easy-to-make salad, look no further! Our Cucumber Tomato Salad is the perfect dish to complement any meal. This vibrant salad combines crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes with a tangy dressing, making it an ideal choice for summer picnics, barbecues, or a simple family dinner. Read on to learn how to prepare this delightful salad.

What is Cucumber Tomato Salad?
Cucumber Tomato Salad is a classic, simple salad featuring fresh cucumbers and tomatoes tossed in a light vinaigrette. It's a staple in many cuisines and can be customized with various herbs and seasonings. This salad is known for its refreshing flavors and crunchy texture, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients List for Cucumber Tomato Salad
Before you start, gather these fresh ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers: Peeled and sliced.
- 3 large tomatoes: Chopped into bite-sized pieces.
- ยฝ red onion: Thinly sliced.
- ยผ cup fresh basil: Chopped.
- ยผ cup fresh parsley: Chopped.
- ยผ cup olive oil: The base of the dressing.
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar: Adds tanginess.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: For a bright flavor.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances the acidity.
- ยฝ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors.
- ยผ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat.
- ยฝ teaspoon dried oregano: For a hint of earthiness.
Substitutions and Variations
This salad is very versatile. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:
- Cucumbers: Use English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers for a different texture.
- Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes can be used instead of large tomatoes.
- Red Onion: Substitute with green onions or shallots for a milder flavor.
- Basil and Parsley: Swap with cilantro, dill, or mint based on your preference.
- Red Wine Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar can be used as an alternative.
- Sugar: Honey or agave nectar can be used for a different sweetener.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Creating this Cucumber Tomato Salad is straightforward. Follow these steps for a quick and tasty salad:
- Prepare the Cucumbers: Peel the cucumbers if desired. Slice them into thin rounds or half-moons and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Chop the Tomatoes: Rinse the tomatoes and chop them into bite-sized pieces. Add them to the bowl with the cucumbers.
- Slice the Onion: Thinly slice the red onion and add it to the bowl.
- Chop the Herbs: Finely chop the basil and parsley, then add them to the bowl with the vegetables.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano until well combined.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together until well coated.
- Serve: For the best flavor, let the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
How to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating the perfect Cucumber Tomato Salad involves a few key steps. Hereโs a more detailed guide:
- Selecting the Cucumbers and Tomatoes: Choose firm, ripe tomatoes and crisp cucumbers for the best texture and flavor.
- Cutting the Vegetables: Slice the cucumbers thinly for a delicate crunch, and chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces for a juicy burst in each bite.
- Balancing the Dressing: Adjust the sweetness and acidity of the dressing to your taste. More lemon juice can be added for extra tang, or more sugar for added sweetness.
- Combining and Chilling: Mixing the salad and letting it sit for a few minutes helps the flavors blend together. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even a simple salad like this can go wrong if youโre not careful. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
- Overdressing the Salad: Adding too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with less and add more if needed.
- Underseasoning: Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. A little extra salt or lemon juice can make a big difference.
- Using Overripe Tomatoes: Overripe tomatoes can make the salad mushy. Choose firm, ripe tomatoes for the best texture.
- Not Letting the Salad Sit: Allowing the salad to sit for a few minutes helps the flavors meld together.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Serving and presenting your Cucumber Tomato Salad can make it even more appealing. Here are some tips:
- Use a Decorative Bowl: A large, colorful bowl can make your salad look more appealing on the table.
- Garnish with Extra Herbs: Sprinkle some fresh basil or parsley leaves on top for a vibrant, fresh look.
- Serve Chilled: Ensure the salad is well-chilled before serving. If serving outdoors, keep it in a cooler to maintain freshness.
- Add Color: Incorporate colorful vegetables like bell peppers or red onions for a vibrant presentation.
How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Salad
Cucumber Tomato Salad is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:
- As a Side Dish: Pair it with grilled meats, fish, or tofu.
- As a Light Lunch: Enjoy it on its own or with a side of crusty bread.
- At a Picnic or Potluck: Itโs a great dish for sharing and travels well.
Presentation Ideas for Cucumber Tomato Salad
Elevate your presentation with these creative ideas:
- Individual Servings: Serve the salad in small, individual bowls or cups for a neat and tidy presentation.
- Lettuce Cups: Spoon the salad into crisp lettuce cups for a fresh, crunchy base.
- Layered Salad: Layer the salad in a trifle dish with additional vegetables for a visually appealing presentation.
Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe Tips
Here are some additional tips to ensure your Cucumber Tomato Salad is a hit:
- Make Ahead: You can prep the salad ingredients and dressing ahead of time, but combine them just before serving to retain freshness.
- Fresh Ingredients: Always use the freshest produce for the best flavor.
- Customize: Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste. Add more or less of any ingredient based on your preference.
- Season Well: Don't skimp on salt and pepper; they enhance the overall flavor of the salad.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use different types of cucumbers? A: Yes, English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers are great alternatives and donโt need to be peeled.
Q: How long will the salad last in the fridge? A: The salad is best eaten fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Q: Can I make this salad dairy-free? A: Absolutely! This recipe is already dairy-free. Just ensure any additional ingredients you add are also dairy-free.
Q: What can I do if my salad is too dry? A: Add a little more olive oil or a splash of lemon juice to reach the desired consistency.
Q: Can I add more vegetables to the salad? A: Yes, feel free to add veggies like bell peppers, avocados, or olives for extra color and nutrition.
Conclusion
Cucumber Tomato Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish thatโs perfect for any occasion. With its crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy dressing, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Follow our detailed guide and tips to make the best Cucumber Tomato Salad ever. Enjoy this refreshing and delicious salad with your family and friends!
PrintCucumber Tomato Salad Recipe
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This Cucumber Tomato Salad recipe combines crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and fresh herbs like basil and parsley, all tossed in a tangy red wine vinegar and lemon dressing. Ideal for summer picnics, barbecues, or as a light, refreshing side dish, this salad is easy to prepare and bursting with fresh flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers: Peeled and sliced.
- 3 large tomatoes: Chopped into bite-sized pieces.
- ยฝ red onion: Thinly sliced.
- ยผ cup fresh basil: Chopped.
- ยผ cup fresh parsley: Chopped.
- ยผ cup olive oil: The base of the dressing.
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar: Adds tanginess.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: For a bright flavor.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances the acidity.
- ยฝ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors.
- ยผ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat.
- ยฝ teaspoon dried oregano: For a hint of earthiness.
Instructions
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- In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, chopped tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion.
- Add the chopped fresh basil and parsley to the bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the cucumber and tomato mixture and toss gently to coat.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh, ripe tomatoes and cucumbers.
- Adjust the amount of sugar and salt to taste.
- This salad can be made a few hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Details:
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 240mg
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