This refreshing tomato cucumber salad is a perfect summer dish! With juicy tomatoes and crunchy cucumbers, it’s light and zesty, making it a great side for any meal.
You can whip it up in just a few minutes! I love to add a sprinkle of feta cheese for extra flavor. It’s like summer on a plate—so simple and delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tomatoes: Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. Any variety works, but I recommend heirloom or grape tomatoes for their sweetness. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, a good quality canned diced tomato can work in a pinch, though it won’t give the same crispness.
Cucumber: I generally use a large cucumber, but if you have Persian or English cucumbers, they’re also great! They have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, which can enhance the salad. If you need to avoid cucumbers, you could try zucchini for a similar crunch.
Red Onion: Red onion adds a nice sharpness. If you find it too strong, try using green onions or sweet onions like Vidalia for a milder taste. For a spicy kick, you could even use a bit of finely chopped chili pepper.
Herbs: Fresh parsley or cilantro gives a great fresh flavor. Don’t have those? Try using dried herbs like dill or basil, or even a bit of mint, which adds a nice twist.
How Do I Keep My Salad Fresh and Crunchy?
Keeping the salad fresh hinges on how you prepare the veggies. Start with washing them gently—this helps prevent sogginess. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture before cutting.
- Slice cucumbers and onions just before serving to maintain crunch.
- For tomatoes, try to add them last, as they release moisture.
- Serving the salad right away is best, but if you want to chill it, cover it tightly to prevent it from absorbing odors from the fridge.
These tips help ensure your salad stays crisp and refreshing for as long as possible! Enjoy your summer salad!
Easy Tomato Cucumber Salad Recipe for Summer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 large ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges
- 1 large cucumber, sliced or cut into half-moons
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and assemble. You can enjoy it immediately or chill it for an additional 10-15 minutes to enhance the flavors. It’s super quick, perfect for busy summer days or gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by washing the tomatoes and cucumber thoroughly. Cut the tomatoes into wedges and slice the cucumber either into rounds or half-moons—whichever you prefer! Now, thinly slice the red onion.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. This combination looks colorful and inviting!
3. Add Fresh Herbs:
Next, sprinkle in the chopped parsley or cilantro. These fresh herbs add so much flavor and a pop of color to your salad.
4. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over the veggies, followed by the red wine vinegar or lemon juice. This will give your salad a nice tangy kick!
5. Season to Perfection:
Generously season the salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy—this will enhance all the flavors!
6. Toss and Taste:
Gently toss the salad to coat all the ingredients evenly with the dressing. Give it a quick taste and adjust the seasoning if you need a little more salt or pepper.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
You can serve the salad immediately if you’re ready to eat! Alternatively, if you have a bit of time, let it chill in the fridge for 10-15 minutes. This helps the flavors blend beautifully.
Enjoy your refreshing tomato cucumber salad as a light side dish or a tasty appetizer! Perfect for summer gatherings or a simple dinner at home!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Tomatoes?
Absolutely! You can use any ripe tomatoes you have on hand, like cherry, grape, or heirloom tomatoes. Each type will bring its unique flavor and sweetness to the salad!
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you’re looking for a substitute for olive oil, you can use avocado oil or any other neutral oil like canola or sunflower oil. Alternatively, you could use a flavored oil for a fun twist!
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Note that cucumbers can become watery over time, so it’s best to eat it sooner rather than later!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to customize the salad by adding ingredients like bell peppers, feta cheese, olives, or even avocado for a creamier texture. Just make sure to balance the flavors so nothing overpowers the dish!
