When summer arrives, it’s time to bring out the fresh and vibrant flavors of the season. There is no better way to celebrate the freshness of summer vegetables than with a delightful Cucumber Tomato Salad. This recipe is not just a side dish; it’s a colorful medley of flavors that can brighten any meal.
Why Make This Recipe
You might be wondering why you should make a Cucumber Tomato Salad. Well, here are a few enticing reasons: First, it’s a quick and easy recipe that requires minimal preparation. Second, it’s packed with vitamins and nutrients, making it a healthy option for anyone. Third, it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it as a main dish, side dish, or even a light snack. Finally, it’s a visually appealing dish that looks as good as it tastes!
So, let’s dive into the details of this refreshing salad that everyone will love.
Recipe Overview
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 0 minutes (No cooking required!)
- Cooling Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
How to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad
Making a Cucumber Tomato Salad is simple and enjoyable. Let’s break down the process into easy steps.
Ingredients:
- Cucumbers
- Tomatoes
- Red onion
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Salt
- Pepper
- Fresh basil
Directions:
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Chop cucumbers and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Start by rinsing the cucumbers and tomatoes under running water. Cut off the ends of the cucumbers and slice them in half lengthwise before chopping them into crescent-shaped pieces.
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Thinly slice red onion.
- Peel the red onion and cut it in half. Slice it thinly so that the flavor is spread evenly throughout the salad.
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In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion.
- Take a large bowl (the bigger, the better) and add all your chopped vegetables together for the next step.
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In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Now, it’s time to make the dressing. In a small bowl, combine a few spoons of olive oil and the juice of a fresh lemon. Add a sprinkle of salt and pepper according to your taste. Whisk it all together until well mixed.
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Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently.
- Pour the made dressing over the chopped vegetables in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are nicely coated.
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Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
- Lastly, take fresh basil leaves, chop them roughly or leave them whole, and sprinkle them on top for a finishing touch.
How to Serve That Recipe
Serving this salad is as easy as making it! You can present it in a large salad bowl in the center of the table, allowing everyone to take as much as they like. For individual servings, use small bowls or plates, and garnish with extra basil leaves for that restaurant-style touch.
This Cucumber Tomato Salad is perfect for barbecues, picnics, or just as a refreshing addition to any meal. Enjoy it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or serve it as a healthy lunch option.
How to Store
If you happen to have leftovers (doubtful!), you can store your Cucumber Tomato Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 2 days; however, you may notice some of the vegetables lose their crispness over time due to the dressing. Therefore, you might want to prepare it fresh for the best taste.
Tips to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad
- Use fresh ingredients: Make sure your cucumbers and tomatoes are ripe and fresh. They are the stars of the salad!
- Dress it just before serving: To avoid sogginess, dress the salad only just before you plan to serve it.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add in other ingredients like feta cheese, olives, or avocado for added richness.
Variation
This salad is wonderfully versatile. Here are a few variations you can try:
- Mediterranean Twist: Add feta cheese and kalamata olives for a salty flavor.
- Avocado Addition: Incorporate diced avocado for a creamy texture.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some diced jalapeño for a spicy twist.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Tomatoes: Heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes will give you the best flavor.
- Avoid Overdressing: Start with a smaller amount of dressing and add more if needed. You can always add, but you can’t take away!
- Uniform Size: Aim for consistent sizes in your vegetable cuts for a more visually appealing dish.
How Many Servings
This recipe makes about 4 servings. It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends or for enjoying solo over several meals.
Calories and Nutrition Facts per Serving
- Calories: Approximately 150
- Protein: 2g
- Fats: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
Health Benefits of Cucumber Tomato Salad
Cucumbers and tomatoes provide numerous health benefits. Cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories, making them an excellent choice for weight management. They also contain antioxidants. Tomatoes, on the other hand, are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as lycopene, which has been linked to heart health. Combined, they create a nutritious salad that is excellent for overall well-being.
Is It Good for People Over 60 Years Old?
Absolutely! This salad is ideal for older adults. It’s full of vitamins and minerals, includes hydrating ingredients, and is easy to eat. Plus, it can support heart health while providing fiber for digestion.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad in advance?
While it’s best to serve it freshly made, you can chop the vegetables ahead of time and store them separately. Combine them with dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh.
2. What can I add to make this salad more filling?
Adding proteins like grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa can turn this refreshing salad into a more filling meal.
3. How do I make it vegan-friendly?
This salad is already vegan! Just ensure that any variations you want to try (like cheese) are plant-based.
In conclusion, a Cucumber Tomato Salad is a refreshing addition to any meal, bursting with flavor and nutrition. It’s simple to make, can be customized in many ways, and is a favorite for a reason! Enjoy this delightful and easy recipe all summer long!
