Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe
Introduction
This refreshing cucumber tomato salad is a perfect blend of crisp vegetables and vibrant herbs, dressed with a tangy vinaigrette. It’s quick to prepare and makes a delightful side dish for any meal, especially during warm weather.
Ingredients
- 3 cups sliced cucumbers (1 ½ to 2 English cucumbers, peeled or unpeeled)
- 3 Roma tomatoes, chopped (about 2 ½ cups chopped)
- ½ cup thinly sliced red onion
- ¼ cup julienned or chopped fresh basil
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh dill
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¾ cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, basil, and dill. Toss gently to mix.
- Step 2: In a measuring cup or small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, red wine vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Step 3: Drizzle the vinaigrette dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
- Step 4: Serve immediately or chill for later to let the flavors meld.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, add thinly sliced radishes or bell peppers.
- Substitute fresh dill with fresh parsley or mint for a different herbal note.
- Adjust vinegar quantities to your taste if you prefer a more or less tangy dressing.
- Letting the salad sit in the fridge for 30 minutes enhances the flavors without making it soggy.
Storage
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Toss gently before serving to redistribute the dressing. This salad is best enjoyed fresh, as cucumbers may release water and soften over time.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cucumbers?
Yes, you can use regular slicing cucumbers or Persian cucumbers. English cucumbers are preferred for their mild flavor and fewer seeds, but any fresh cucumber will work.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
It can be prepared in advance, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to maintain the crunch of the cucumbers and freshness of the tomatoes.
PrintCucumber Tomato Salad Recipe
A refreshing and vibrant cucumber tomato salad featuring crisp cucumbers, ripe Roma tomatoes, and fresh herbs tossed in a tangy apple cider vinegar vinaigrette. Perfect as a light side dish or a healthy snack, this salad is quick to prepare and ideal for warm weather meals.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Vegetables and Herbs
- 3 cups sliced cucumbers (1 ½ to 2 English cucumbers, peeled or unpeeled)
- 3 Roma tomatoes, chopped (about 2 ½ cups chopped)
- ½ cup thinly sliced red onion
- ¼ cup julienned or chopped fresh basil
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh dill
Dressing
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¾ cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
Instructions
- Combine Vegetables and Herbs: In a large bowl, add the sliced cucumbers, chopped Roma tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, fresh basil, and chopped fresh dill. Toss gently to mix all ingredients evenly without bruising the vegetables.
- Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a measuring cup or small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, red wine vinegar, granulated sugar, kosher salt, and black pepper until the dressing is well emulsified and smooth.
- Toss Salad with Dressing: Drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the cucumber and tomato mixture. Toss the salad gently but thoroughly to ensure every piece is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Serve or Chill: Serve the salad immediately for a fresh, crisp texture or cover and chill in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours to allow flavors to meld for a more pronounced taste.
Notes
- For best texture, use fresh, firm cucumbers and ripe tomatoes.
- Peeling cucumbers is optional; leaving the skin on adds extra fiber and color.
- Adjust the amount of sugar and salt according to taste preferences.
- This salad can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours but is best eaten fresh.
- Consider adding feta cheese or olives for a Mediterranean twist.
Keywords: cucumber tomato salad, fresh vegetable salad, easy summer salad, tangy vinaigrette, healthy side dish
