Cucumber Tomato Salad

This healthy Cucumber Tomato Salad recipe is a refreshing dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a summer barbecue or preparing a quick weekday meal, this salad brings together crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and zesty dressing. It’s not only delicious but also simple to make, making it a go-to choice for potlucks and family gatherings year-round!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad takes only 15 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
• Fresh Ingredients: With the combination of cucumbers, tomatoes, and fresh dill, every bite bursts with flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a light lunch or pair it with your favorite protein like chicken or beef.
• Low-Calorie Option: At just 24 calories per serving, this salad is a guilt-free addition to any meal.
• Customizable Toppings: Add feta cheese or avocado for extra creaminess and flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to streamline the process. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Jar with a tightly fitted lid
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: This allows you to combine all ingredients without spilling, ensuring even mixing.
• Jar with a tightly fitted lid: Perfect for shaking up your dressing without making a mess.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables quickly and efficiently.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes cutting through vegetables easy and precise.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 2 whole English cucumbers, ends trimmed, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
• 3 small Roma tomatoes, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
• 1/2 whole red onion, halved, sliced thin

For the Dressing

• 1/3 cup water
• 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill

Optional Toppings

• Feta cheese
• Avocado

How to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad

Step 1: Combine Vegetables

Place cucumbers, tomatoes, and onion in a large bowl. Ensure they are evenly distributed for balanced flavor in each bite.

Step 2: Prepare Dressing

In a jar with a tightly fitted lid, combine water, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Shake vigorously for about 10 seconds until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Mix Dressing with Vegetables

Pour the dressing over the cucumber and tomato mixture. Gently toss to coat all ingredients well with the dressing.

Step 4: Chill the Salad

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Serve

After chilling, drain off excess liquid from the salad. Sprinkle with fresh dill before serving for an added touch of flavor. Enjoy your Cucumber Tomato Salad!

How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Salad

Cucumber Tomato Salad is versatile and can enhance any meal. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a casual dinner, this salad pairs well with various dishes.

As a Standalone Dish

• Fresh and light, Cucumber Tomato Salad can be enjoyed on its own as a refreshing snack or lunch option.

With Grilled Chicken

• The crispness of the salad complements grilled chicken perfectly, adding a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors.

Alongside Steak

• Serve this salad with a juicy steak for a delightful balance of textures and flavors that brightens your meal.

On Tacos

• Use Cucumber Tomato Salad as a topping for tacos for an extra layer of freshness that enhances every bite.

With Fish Dishes

• It pairs beautifully with grilled or baked fish, providing a zesty side that highlights the dish’s natural flavors.

How to Perfect Cucumber Tomato Salad

To ensure your Cucumber Tomato Salad stands out, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for ripe, fresh cucumbers and tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.
• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator enhances the flavor as it lets the ingredients meld together.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dressing before adding it to the salad; feel free to adjust salt and sugar levels according to your preference.
• Add Crunch: For extra texture, consider adding diced bell peppers or radishes for additional crunch.
• Garnish Creatively: Enhance presentation with fresh herbs like parsley or basil sprinkled on top before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Tomato Salad

Cucumber Tomato Salad makes an excellent addition to many meals. Here are some fantastic side dishes that pair well with it.

1. Grilled Veggies
   A colorful mix of seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection adds great flavor and nutrients.
2. Quinoa Pilaf
   This light and fluffy grain dish offers a nutty flavor that complements the crispness of the salad.
3. Roasted Potatoes
   Crispy roasted potatoes provide a satisfying contrast in texture while remaining simple and comforting.
4. Hummus with Pita Chips
   Creamy hummus paired with crunchy pita chips creates a delicious appetizer that’s perfect for sharing.
5. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw balances well with the freshness of Cucumber Tomato Salad, making it an ideal pairing for picnics.
6. Stuffed Peppers
   Flavorful stuffed peppers filled with rice or grains create a hearty side that works wonderfully alongside lighter salads.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cucumber Tomato Salad, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Using overripe tomatoes: Overripe tomatoes can make your salad mushy. Choose firm, fresh Roma tomatoes for a crisp texture.
• Skipping the refrigerating step: Not allowing the salad to chill can prevent the flavors from melding. Refrigerate for at least one hour for the best taste.
• Ignoring seasoning measurements: Too much or too little salt can alter the flavor drastically. Follow the recipe’s measurements for balanced seasoning.
• Not draining excess liquid: If you don’t drain off any extra liquid before serving, your salad may become watery. Always drain before adding fresh herbs or toppings.
• Neglecting garnish options: Failing to add optional ingredients like feta cheese or avocado can limit flavors. Experiment with these additions for a richer taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 3 days for the best freshness.

Freezing Cucumber Tomato Salad

• Freezing is not recommended as it affects the texture of cucumbers and tomatoes.

Reheating Cucumber Tomato Salad

• Oven: Not suitable; best served cold or at room temperature.
• Microwave: Not recommended; it may alter the salad’s freshness.
• Stovetop: Not applicable; enjoy chilled.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Cucumber Tomato Salad that may help enhance your experience:

Can I customize the Cucumber Tomato Salad?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added crunch and color.

What can I serve with Cucumber Tomato Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, beef, or seafood dishes, making it a versatile side.

How long does Cucumber Tomato Salad last in the fridge?

The salad typically lasts about 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Is there a vegan version of Cucumber Tomato Salad?

Yes! This recipe is already vegan-friendly. Just skip any optional dairy toppings like feta cheese.

Final Thoughts

Cucumber Tomato Salad is not only refreshing but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a light side dish all year round, this salad invites creativity—feel free to add your favorite veggies or herbs! Give it a try and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!