There’s something absolutely magical about a fresh cucumber tomato salad recipe, especially on a warm day. The crisp, cool cucumbers paired with the juicy, vibrant tomatoes create a burst of flavor that just sings summer! I remember the first time I made this salad for a picnic with friends; it was such a hit! Everyone was raving about how refreshing it was, and I couldn’t believe how simple it was to whip up. Trust me, this salad is a go-to for anyone looking for a quick, healthy side dish that packs a punch of flavor. Plus, it’s vegan, so everyone can enjoy it! Just a few fresh ingredients tossed together, and you’ve got a colorful, nutritious delight that feels like sunshine on a plate. What more could you want?
Ingredients
- 2 medium cucumbers, diced into bite-sized pieces for that perfect crunch
- 3 large tomatoes, chopped to bring a juicy sweetness that complements the cucumbers
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced for a bit of sharpness and color
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped to add a pop of freshness
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, which will bring it all together with a rich flavor
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, giving a tangy kick that brightens the salad
- Salt and pepper to taste, because a little seasoning really elevates everything
How to Prepare the Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe
Combine the Fresh Ingredients
First things first, grab yourself a large bowl—you’ll want something spacious because we’re about to create a colorful masterpiece! Toss in those diced cucumbers, chopped tomatoes, and the thinly sliced red onion. And don’t forget that fresh parsley; it adds such a vibrant splash of color and flavor! Using a big spoon, gently mix everything together until it’s all beautifully combined. Just look at those colors! It’s already making my mouth water!
Create the Dressing
Now, let’s whip up that dressing! In a small bowl, pour in the olive oil and the red wine vinegar. Here’s the fun part—grab a whisk (or a fork if you don’t have one) and whisk them together until they’re fully blended. Add in a pinch of salt and a sprinkle of pepper to taste. I always taste a little bit to make sure it’s just right—feel free to adjust it to your liking! This dressing is going to be the magic that brings our salad to life.
Toss and Chill
Okay, it’s time for the grand finale! Drizzle that delicious dressing all over your salad. Now, using that same big spoon, gently toss everything together so that every piece of veggie gets coated in that zesty goodness. Once it’s all mixed up, cover the bowl with some plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This chilling time is crucial—it allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully. When you take it out, it’ll be cool, refreshing, and ready to impress! Can’t wait for you to try this!
Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe
- Quick preparation—whip it up in just 15 minutes!
- Fresh ingredients that provide vibrant flavors and textures.
- Vegan-friendly, making it a great option for everyone.
- Incredibly flavorful, thanks to the tangy dressing and crisp veggies.
- Perfect for summer gatherings or as a refreshing side dish any time of year.
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about what’s in this delicious cucumber tomato salad recipe! It’s not just refreshing; it’s also packed with some pretty great nutritional benefits. Here’s a quick breakdown of the estimated nutritional data per serving:
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
With these numbers, you can feel good about digging into this salad! It’s light, refreshing, and guilt-free—a perfect addition to your meals. Plus, it’s bursting with flavor while still being low in calories, making it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to eat healthier. Enjoy every bite knowing it’s good for you!
Tips for Success
To make this cucumber tomato salad recipe truly shine, I’ve got some pro tips that will take it from great to absolutely fantastic! Trust me, these little tweaks can make all the difference.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for the freshest cucumbers and tomatoes you can find. It really enhances the flavor and crunch of the salad. If you can, visit a local farmer’s market for the best produce!
- Chill Before Serving: Don’t skip the chilling step! Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes lets the flavors mingle beautifully, making every bite even more delicious.
- Add Feta Cheese: If you’re looking to amp up the flavor, sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese over the top just before serving. The creamy, salty goodness pairs perfectly with the fresh veggies!
- Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to switch up the parsley with other fresh herbs like basil or mint. They’ll add unique flavors and a lovely aroma to your salad!
- Adjust the Dressing: Don’t be afraid to play around with the dressing! If you like a bit more tang, add an extra splash of red wine vinegar. Or, for a sweeter note, a drizzle of honey can elevate the flavors.
- Make Ahead: This salad can be made a day in advance! Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain that fresh crunch.
With these tips, you’re on your way to creating the perfect cucumber tomato salad that will impress everyone at your table. Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!
Variations
If you’re looking to shake things up a bit, there are so many fun variations you can try with this cucumber tomato salad recipe! It’s all about personalizing it to fit your taste buds or whatever you have on hand. Here are some ideas that I love:
- Add Olives: Throw in some Kalamata or green olives for a briny bite that adds depth and a Mediterranean flair to the salad. It’s a perfect pairing with those fresh veggies!
- Include Avocado: Diced avocado adds a creamy texture that balances the crunch of the cucumbers and tomatoes. Plus, who doesn’t love a little extra healthy fat in their salad?
- Mix in Different Herbs: Switch up the fresh parsley for basil, dill, or mint. Each herb will bring its own unique flavor profile and brighten up the dish in a different way!
- Spice It Up: If you’re a fan of a little heat, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to give your salad a spicy kick. It’s a great way to keep things exciting!
- Feta or Goat Cheese: Crumbled feta or goat cheese can bring a tangy creaminess that complements the veggies beautifully. Just a little sprinkle, and you’ve got a whole new salad experience!
- Roasted Veggies: For a different texture, try roasting some of the veggies before adding them to the salad. Roasted tomatoes can add a sweet, caramelized flavor that’s just delightful!
- Quinoa or Chickpeas: For a heartier version, toss in some cooked quinoa or chickpeas. This not only adds protein but also makes the salad more filling—perfect for a light meal!
These variations are just the tip of the iceberg! Feel free to get creative and mix and match ingredients based on what you love or what’s in season. The beauty of this cucumber tomato salad recipe is its versatility, so don’t hesitate to make it your own!
Serving Suggestions
This cucumber tomato salad recipe is a superstar on its own, but it also shines when paired with other dishes! Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions that complement the refreshing flavors of the salad perfectly:
- Grilled Meats: Whether it’s chicken, steak, or shrimp, grilled meats add a smoky depth that pairs beautifully with the crispness of the salad. I love serving it alongside some lemon-herb grilled chicken—delicious!
- Pita Bread: Warm, fluffy pita bread is perfect for scooping up this salad. It adds a lovely texture and makes for a satisfying bite. You can even serve a side of hummus for dipping!
- Falafel: Crispy falafel balls are a fantastic vegetarian option that brings a hearty element to your meal. The spices in falafel complement the fresh veggies beautifully.
- Grilled Fish: Light, flaky grilled fish, like salmon or tilapia, pairs wonderfully with the salad. The freshness of the salad cuts through the richness of the fish, making for a balanced plate.
- Quinoa or Couscous: Serve this salad on top of a fluffy bed of quinoa or couscous for a more filling meal. The nuttiness of these grains pairs well with the bright flavors of the salad.
- Other Mediterranean Dishes: Think about serving alongside classic Mediterranean dishes like tzatziki, stuffed grape leaves, or a warm lentil soup. They all harmonize with the flavors in this salad, giving you a delightful feast!
These pairings not only enhance the meal but also create a vibrant spread that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. Enjoy mixing and matching to find your perfect combination!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
When it comes to storing any leftovers from this cucumber tomato salad recipe, I’ve got you covered! First off, it’s best to keep this salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This way, it’ll stay fresh and maintain that delightful crunch we all love. Just remember, while it can be enjoyed for a day or two, it’s at its absolute best when served fresh. The flavors are vibrant, and the veggies are crisp—just the way we want them!
If you happen to have some leftover dressing, it’s a good idea to store that separately. This will help keep the salad from getting soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply give everything a little toss, and you’re good to go! Just a quick note: I wouldn’t recommend reheating this salad, as it’s meant to be served cold. So, enjoy it right from the fridge for a refreshing treat anytime!
For more delicious salad recipes, check out Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta or Mediterranean Quinoa Salad.
For more information on the health benefits of tomatoes, visit Healthline.
Print
Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe: 5 Fresh Twists to Savor
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A refreshing cucumber tomato salad with a simple dressing.
Ingredients
- 2 cucumbers, diced
- 3 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the cucumbers, tomatoes, onion, and parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Feel free to add feta cheese for extra taste.
- This salad can be made a day in advance.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: cucumber tomato salad recipe, salad, vegan salad
