Introduction to Cucumber Tomato Salad
When the sweltering heat of summer rolls in, nothing quite hits the spot like a refreshing Cucumber Tomato Salad. This vibrant dish is a delightful mix of crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes, drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette that makes it a staple for any summer gathering. Whether you're enjoying a picnic in the park or hosting a backyard barbecue, this salad is the perfect accompaniment to grilled favorites or just on its own as a light lunch.
Why is Cucumber Tomato Salad a summer staple?
The beauty of a Cucumber Tomato Salad lies in its simplicity and versatility. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also showcases the best of what summer has to offer—fresh, seasonal produce. The coolness of cucumbers brings a refreshing crunch, while ripe tomatoes add a burst of flavor that’s hard to resist.
According to the USDA, consuming summer produce like cucumbers and tomatoes can help keep you hydrated and provide essential nutrients, making this salad a smart choice as temperatures rise. Plus, this salad can be tailored to fit your taste. Want to add some feta cheese or avocado? Go ahead! This dish is all about personalizing it to suit your preferences.
So grab your cutting board, and let’s dive into this Cucumber Tomato Salad recipe that embodies all the goodness summer has to offer! For great tips on summer produce, check out USDA's guidelines.
Ingredients for Cucumber Tomato Salad
Crafting a fresh and vibrant Cucumber Tomato Salad is all about choosing the right ingredients. This simple yet delicious salad requires just a handful of components that you can easily find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you'll need:
- ¼ cup red onion: Diced finely for a touch of sharpness that complements the other ingredients.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for enhancing flavor and draining excess moisture from the veggies.
- 1 tablespoon + 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar: Swapping out traditional vinegar adds a tangy punch; feel free to use white wine vinegar or a splash of lemon juice if that's what you have on hand.
- 2 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil: This will provide a rich flavor and add to the overall texture.
- Freshly ground black pepper: To taste; it’s a great way to customize the dish to your liking.
- 6 Persian cucumbers: Halved and sliced, these smaller cucumbers bring crispness and require no peeling.
- 2 large ripe heirloom tomatoes: Diced to add sweetness and juiciness; beefsteak tomatoes work just as well!
With these easy-to-find ingredients, you’re ready to create a refreshing side dish perfect for summer gatherings. For a more in-depth look at ingredient pairings, check out this guide on salad essentials. Whether you’re enjoying a meal at home or hosting friends, this Cucumber Tomato Salad is sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Cucumber Tomato Salad
Creating a fresh and vibrant Cucumber Tomato Salad is a delightful task, perfect for enhancing your culinary skills while enjoying a cool and light dish. Let’s dive right into the step-by-step process that will have you savoring this delicious salad in no time!
Gather Your Fresh Ingredients
Before you start mixing things up, it’s essential to gather all necessary ingredients. You’ll need:
- ¼ cup red onion (diced)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon + 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar (or your choice of apple cider vinegar)
- 2 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 6 Persian cucumbers (halved and sliced)
- 2 large ripe heirloom tomatoes (or beefsteak, diced)
Having everything ready at your fingertips helps streamline the process and ensures you won’t miss any critical components. Fresh ingredients make a tangible difference in flavor, so don’t skimp on quality. Check out this guide on seasonal vegetables to pick the freshest options!
Prepare the Red Onion
Next, chop your red onion into fine dice. This brings out its flavor and ensures that every bite of your Cucumber Tomato Salad has a nice crunch and zest. If you’re sensitive to the strong aroma of onions, consider rinsing them under cold water after chopping to mellow the taste slightly.
Marinate the Onions
Marinating the onions is a game-changer in elevating the overall flavor of your salad. In a mixing bowl, add the diced onions, kosher salt, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Then, pour in the vinegar (your choice) to give it that tangy kick. Allow them to marinate for about 5 to 10 minutes. This step not only softens the onion’s raw bite but also infuses them with flavor, making them ready to mingle with the other ingredients.
Combine Tomatoes and Cucumbers
Once your onions are nicely marinated, it’s time to bring in the stars of the show: the tomatoes and cucumbers. Toss the halved and sliced Persian cucumbers into the mixing bowl, followed by the diced heirloom tomatoes, juices and all. This combination is visually stunning and a burst of juicy goodness that screams summer!
Dress and Toss the Salad
Finish off your Cucumber Tomato Salad by drizzling with the remaining teaspoon of olive oil, adjusting the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as desired. Toss everything gently but thoroughly, allowing the flavors to combine while keeping the textures intact. Serve immediately for the freshest experience!
With this simple step-by-step method, you can whip up a delicious Cucumber Tomato Salad that is perfect for any gathering or a quick meal at home. Enjoy!
Variations on Cucumber Tomato Salad
Greek-style Cucumber Tomato Salad
If you're looking to add a Mediterranean twist to your Cucumber Tomato Salad, try tossing in some crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and a sprinkle of oregano. This not only enhances the flavors but also gives a satisfying creamy texture. Pair it with a drizzle of lemon juice instead of vinegar for a bright, zesty finish. It’s a perfect side dish for grilled chicken or fish.
Cucumber Tomato Salad with Avocado
For a creamier texture, incorporate ripe avocado into your Cucumber Tomato Salad. The buttery avocado complements the crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes beautifully. Add a squeeze of lime juice and some chopped cilantro or parsley for a refreshing touch. This variation also boosts healthy fats, making your salad both nutritious and delicious!
Feel free to mix and match to suit your palate. Enjoy exploring these variations!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Cucumber Tomato Salad
When making Cucumber Tomato Salad, freshness is key. Choose ripe heirloom or beefsteak tomatoes for the best flavor. For extra crunch, opt for Persian cucumbers; they have minimal seeds and a refreshing taste.
Marinating the red onions not only mellows their sharpness but enhances the salad's overall flavor. If you prefer a bit more zing, add lemon juice or a splash of your favorite citrus vinegar as an alternative.
Feel free to customize your salad with ingredients like feta cheese or fresh herbs, such as basil or cilantro. These additions can elevate your dish even further! For serving suggestions, consider pairing this salad with grilled chicken or turkey bacon for a delightful summer meal that’s sure to impress.
Check out this article on summer salads for more inspiration!
Serving Suggestions for Cucumber Tomato Salad
Ideal Pairings for Your Salad
This Cucumber Tomato Salad shines when served alongside grilled meats or poultry, like lemon-herb chicken or turkey bacon. It's also fabulous with toasted pita and hummus for a light lunch. If you’re up for some fun fusion, add it as a topping to your favorite tacos or sandwiches! Pair it with a refreshing cucumber lemonade or sparkling water infused with mint to elevate the meal and keep things cool.
Perfect Occasions for Serving
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, a summer picnic, or a cozy family dinner, this salad is a crowd-pleaser. It's also an excellent option for potlucks—easy to prepare and transport! Picture a sunny afternoon gathering with friends, where this Cucumber Tomato Salad becomes the delightful centerpiece. Moreover, it makes a great side for holiday feasts, specially during warm-weather festivities. For even more inspiration, check out FoodNetwork's picnic ideas.
Time Breakdown for Cucumber Tomato Salad
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Marinate time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Crafting this delightful Cucumber Tomato Salad is quick and effortless. With just 5 minutes of preparation and a brief 10-minute marinating time, you’ll have a refreshing side ready to complement any meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or summer gatherings, it’s a breeze to whip up!
Nutritional Facts for Cucumber Tomato Salad
Calories
This refreshing Cucumber Tomato Salad is light on the calories, coming in at just 92 calories per serving. This makes it an ideal side dish for those warm summer nights when you want to keep things healthy and satisfying.
Protein
While it won't replace your protein-packed meals, this salad provides about 1.5 grams of protein per serving. Pair it with grilled chicken or turkey bacon for a complete, nutritious meal!
Sodium
If you're mindful of your salt intake, you'll be pleased to know that a serving contains approximately 284 mg of sodium. This relatively low level makes it a great option for a balanced diet.
For a deeper dive into the benefits of each ingredient, consider checking out the nutritional benefits of tomatoes or the advantages of cucumbers. Both vegetables not only enhance the flavor of your Cucumber Tomato Salad but also contribute to your overall health. Enjoy this delicious salad as part of a well-rounded summer meal!
FAQs about Cucumber Tomato Salad
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! One of the great things about Cucumber Tomato Salad is that it benefits from sitting a little while before serving. Ideally, prepare it a few hours in advance to let the flavors meld together. Just keep in mind that the cucumbers may lose some crunch over time.
What’s the best way to store leftover salad?
To store any leftover Cucumber Tomato Salad, transfer it to an airtight container, and pop it in the fridge. It should be good for about 2-3 days. Just remember, the longer it sits, the softer the cucumbers will become, so it's best enjoyed fresh!
Are there any ingredient substitutions I can make?
Definitely! If you don’t have Persian cucumbers, you can use English cucumbers or regular cucumbers sliced thinly. For the tomatoes, feel free to swap in cherry tomatoes for a sweeter taste. Additionally, if you want a different tang, try substituting lemon juice for vinegar. Explore with flavors that resonate with your palate—recipes are all about making them your own!
For more tips on ingredient swaps, check out Food52 or Serious Eats.
Conclusion on Cucumber Tomato Salad
Cucumber Tomato Salad is more than just a side dish; it's a refreshing ode to summer. This vibrant salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can stand alone as a light lunch. Feel free to experiment with additional veggies or proteins to personalize your dish. Enjoy the simplicity and flavor!
Cucumber Tomato Salad
Equipment
- mixing bowl
Ingredients
Vegetables
- ¼ cup red onion diced
- 6 units Persian cucumbers halved and sliced
- 2 large ripe heirloom tomatoes diced
Seasoning and Dressing
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or white wine vinegar
- 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
- freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Add onions to a mixing bowl and top with salt, 2 tablespoons of olive oil and vinegar. Let it marinate 5 to 10 minutes, then add the tomatoes with their juices and cucumber.
- Toss well, drizzle with the remaining teaspoon of oil and adjust the salt and vinegar to taste.
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