Cucumber Tomato Salad

Cucumber Tomato Salad is a refreshing dish that perfectly showcases the vibrant flavors of summer. This salad is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to complement any meal, from barbecues to picnics. The combination of ripe tomatoes and crisp cucumbers creates a delightful contrast, while the fresh herbs add an aromatic touch. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish or a light lunch, this Cucumber Tomato Salad is sure to impress.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad
• Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
• Step 2: Mix the Salad Ingredients
• Step 3: Make the Dressing
• Step 4: Combine Everything
• Step 5: Chill Before Serving
• How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Salad
• As a Side Dish
• On Toasted Crostini
• In Wraps
• With Feta Cheese
• As a Topping
• How to Perfect Cucumber Tomato Salad
• Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Tomato Salad
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Cucumber Tomato Salad
• Reheating Cucumber Tomato Salad
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use other vegetables in my Cucumber Tomato Salad?
• How long does Cucumber Tomato Salad last?
• What herbs work best with Cucumber Tomato Salad?
• Is Cucumber Tomato Salad healthy?
• Can I make Cucumber Tomato Salad ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious salad without any fuss.
• Fresh Flavors: The blend of tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs offers a burst of freshness in every bite.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with grilled meats, serve it at potlucks, or enjoy it as a light meal on its own.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients and low in calories, this salad is a guilt-free option for any diet.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual dinner, this salad fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Having the right equipment will make preparing your Cucumber Tomato Salad easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Glass measuring cup
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Cutting board: A sturdy surface for chopping vegetables safely and efficiently.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for your tomatoes and cucumbers, enhancing presentation.
• Glass measuring cup: Perfect for whisking dressing ingredients without spills.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all your ingredients evenly.

Ingredients

• 8 Small Vine Cocktail Tomatoes (not grape or cherry, but actual vine tomatoes)
• 1 English Cucumber
• 1 Pinch Brown Sugar
• 1/4 Red Onion (thinly sliced)
• 2 Tablespoons Parsley (fresh, chopped)
• 2 Tablespoons Cilantro (fresh, chopped)
• 2 Pinches Salt
• 2 Pinches Pepper
• 1/2 Cup Olive Oil
• 1/4 Cup Red Wine Vinegar
• 1 Squeeze Lemon Juice
• 1 Pinch Pepper
• 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
• 3 Cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon Brown Sugar
• 1 teaspoon Dried Basil (or 2 teaspoons fresh, chopped)

How to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Cut each tomato into 6–8 wedges and then halve them.
2. Trim the ends off the cucumber and slice it in half lengthwise. Then slice into 1/4 pieces.

Step 2: Mix the Salad Ingredients

1. In a mixing bowl, toss the tomatoes with brown sugar, onion, parsley, cilantro, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

1. In a glass measuring cup, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, brown sugar, dried basil, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Pour the dressing over the tomato salad mixture and gently toss to coat everything evenly.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

1. Cover the salad with plastic wrap and let it sit on the counter for 1–6 hours or refrigerate if you want to prepare it longer in advance. Serve chilled with grilled or toasted crostini bread!

Enjoy your refreshingly simple Cucumber Tomato Salad!

How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Salad

Cucumber Tomato Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as a side, a topping, or part of a main meal, this salad adds freshness and flavor to any table setting.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a refreshing contrast.
• Pair it with hearty sandwiches for a light and crunchy complement.

On Toasted Crostini

• Spoon the salad onto toasted bread for an easy appetizer.
• Drizzle with balsamic reduction for added flavor.

In Wraps

• Use the salad as a filling for wraps or pitas.
• Combine with hummus or tzatziki for added creaminess.

With Feta Cheese

• Crumble feta over the salad for a salty finish.
• This enhances the Mediterranean vibe of the dish.

As a Topping

• Top your favorite grain bowls with this salad for added texture.
• It works well on tacos or nachos as a fresh garnish.

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How to Perfect Cucumber Tomato Salad

Creating the perfect Cucumber Tomato Salad involves some simple techniques. Here are tips to enhance your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Select ripe tomatoes and crisp cucumbers for the best flavor and texture.
• Chill Before Serving – Refrigerate the salad for at least an hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste the salad before serving and adjust salt, pepper, and citrus according to preference.
• Experiment with Herbs – Feel free to add other herbs like mint or dill for different flavors.
• Serve Immediately – While it’s great chilled, this salad is best enjoyed fresh within hours of preparation.

Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Tomato Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Cucumber Tomato Salad can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers – Marinated in herbs and spices, these skewers provide protein that complements the lightness of the salad.
2. Quinoa Pilaf – Fluffy quinoa mixed with vegetables creates a healthy base that pairs well with the freshness of the salad.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add warmth and depth to your meal while balancing out the cool salad.
4. Pasta Primavera – A light pasta dish featuring seasonal vegetables is a great choice that echoes the fresh ingredients in your salad.
5. Garlic Bread – Crunchy garlic bread offers a satisfying contrast to the crispness of Cucumber Tomato Salad.
6. Stuffed Peppers – These can be filled with grains, beans, and cheese for a hearty side that complements the refreshing nature of the salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Cucumber Tomato Salad, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using the wrong tomatoes: Many people mistake grape or cherry tomatoes for vine tomatoes. Always choose small vine cocktail tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Skipping seasoning: Neglecting to add salt and pepper can make your salad bland. Season your salad generously for a burst of flavor.
• Not letting it marinate: Serving immediately can miss out on the flavors melding together. Allow your salad to sit for at least an hour before serving.
• Cutting vegetables too large: If your cucumber and tomatoes are cut too big, they won’t blend well. Aim for uniform, bite-sized pieces to enhance texture and taste.
• Overdressing the salad: Using too much dressing can overpower the fresh ingredients. Start with a little, then add more as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep refrigerated to maintain crispness and flavor.

Freezing Cucumber Tomato Salad

• Freezing is not recommended as it affects texture.
• If you must freeze, use a freezer-safe container but expect changes in quality.

Reheating Cucumber Tomato Salad

Reheating is generally not necessary due to the salad’s fresh nature. However, if desired:

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish briefly.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, but be cautious not to cook it.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently; aim for just enough warmth without cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Cucumber Tomato Salad that might help you enjoy this dish even more.

Can I use other vegetables in my Cucumber Tomato Salad?

Yes! Feel free to add bell peppers, avocados, or radishes for extra crunch and flavor.

How long does Cucumber Tomato Salad last?

The salad stays fresh in the refrigerator for about 2-3 days when stored properly.

What herbs work best with Cucumber Tomato Salad?

Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or basil complement this salad beautifully. Feel free to mix them!

Is Cucumber Tomato Salad healthy?

Absolutely! This salad is low in calories and packed with vitamins from fresh vegetables. It’s a great choice for a healthy side dish.

Can I make Cucumber Tomato Salad ahead of time?

Yes! Preparing it a few hours in advance allows the flavors to meld together perfectly.

Final Thoughts

Cucumber Tomato Salad is not only refreshing but also versatile! You can customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting seasonings. Enjoy this light, healthy side dish at any meal or as a stand-alone snack. Give it a try today!