This Fresh Tomato and Cucumber Salad is perfect for hot days! It’s made with juicy tomatoes and crunchy cucumbers, mixed with a splash of olive oil and a hint of lemon.
This salad is so easy to make, it’s practically begging to be on your table! I usually toss in some fresh herbs for extra flavor—it really makes the dish pop! 🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tomatoes: Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor. I love using heirloom tomatoes when they are in season, but any variety works well. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, consider using cherry tomatoes, halved for a sweeter bite.
Cucumbers: Choose firm cucumbers for a nice crunch. I often prefer English cucumbers as they are less bitter and don’t need peeling, but regular cucumbers will do just fine. If you want a little zing, try using pickling cucumbers!
Red Onion: Red onion adds a beautiful color and mild flavor. If you’re sensitive to raw onions, substitute with green onions or shallots for a gentler taste.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is the best choice for its rich flavor. If you’re out, grapeseed or avocado oil can also work as alternatives.
How Do I Ensure the Flavors Meld Well?
The key to a delicious salad is letting it sit for a little while. This step allows the vegetables to soak up the dressing, enhancing the flavors. Here’s how to get it right:
- Always mix the salad ingredients in a bowl first before adding the dressing.
- Once the dressing is added, toss gently so you don’t squish the veggies.
- Letting it sit for at least 10-15 minutes helps the flavors blend beautifully. You can even refrigerate it for a bit if you’d like it extra cool.
Enjoy your refreshing salad as a side or even a light main dish! Perfect for summer days! 🍅🥒
Fresh Tomato and Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Produce:
- 3 medium ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 2 medium cucumbers, peeled and sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (or vinegar)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon sugar or honey (to balance acidity)
Herbs:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and it’s best to let it sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving. So in total, you’re looking at around 20-25 minutes to make this light and refreshing dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Vegetables:
Start by chopping the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces, peeling and slicing the cucumbers, and thinly slicing the red onion. Place all the chopped veggies into a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the Dressing:
Next, drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice over the vegetables in the bowl. This is where the magic happens, as the dressing will really bring out those fresh flavors!
3. Season It Right:
Now, sprinkle in some salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste. If you want to balance out the acidity, add in the optional sugar or honey and mix well.
4. Toss and Combine:
Gently toss everything together using a large spoon or spatula. Make sure all the veggies get a nice coating of the dressing. Be careful not to mash them; we want to maintain that fresh crunch!
5. Finish with Fresh Herbs:
Sprinkle the chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a burst of flavor and color. Give it another gentle toss to distribute the herbs evenly throughout the salad.
6. Time to Set:
Let the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes at room temperature or in the fridge. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing your overall experience.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
When you’re ready to dig in, serve the salad chilled or at room temperature. It pairs perfectly with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a refreshing snack!
Enjoy your delightful Fresh Tomato and Cucumber Salad! 🥗🍅🥒
Can I Use Different Types of Tomatoes?
Absolutely! While I recommend ripe tomatoes for the best flavor, you can use cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes as well. Just halve them for easier eating, and they’ll add a nice sweetness to the salad!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
This salad is already vegan! Just ensure that any additional ingredients you use, like optional honey, is swapped for a vegan-friendly alternative, such as maple syrup or agave nectar.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the salad up to a few hours in advance. Just wait to add the dressing until just before serving to keep the cucumbers crunchy and fresh. If you need to prepare it even earlier, consider storing the chopped veggies separately from the dressing.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If the cucumbers lose their crunch, try adding a little more dressing before serving for a fresh taste!
