Why You’ll Love this Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe
Whether you’re looking for a revitalizing side dish or a light meal, you’ll love this Cucumber Tomato Salad recipe. It’s incredibly invigorating, with bright flavors that burst in every bite.
I enjoy how quick and easy it’s to prepare, making it perfect for busy weekdays or spontaneous gatherings. Plus, it’s so versatile! You can serve it alongside grilled meats or enjoy it on its own.
The crunchy cucumbers and juicy tomatoes create a delightful texture, and the dressing adds just the right zing. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it a regular on your table!
Ingredients of Cucumber Tomato Salad
When it comes to whipping up a revitalizing salad, the Cucumber Tomato Salad is a classic that never gets old. The combination of crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes is a match made in heaven. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a dish that’s not only delicious but also takes minimal effort to prepare?
You’ll want to gather your ingredients ahead of time so you can dive right into this easy-peasy recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to create this vibrant Cucumber Tomato Salad:
- 3 medium tomatoes, sliced
- 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 green onion, chopped
- 3 tablespoons Italian salad dressing
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 1 teaspoon fresh basil, chopped (or 1/4 teaspoon dried basil)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 pinch pepper
- 1 pinch garlic salt
Now, let’s chat about the ingredients for a moment. The tomatoes are the star of the show, so pick some that are ripe and bursting with flavor—this will really elevate your salad.
And don’t skimp on the cucumbers; they add that satisfying crunch that balances out the softness of the tomatoes. If you have fresh basil, go for it—it really brings out the freshness.
But hey, if dried basil is all you have, that works too! The beauty of this salad lies in its flexibility; feel free to adjust the dressing to your taste or throw in other veggies you have on hand.
Got bell peppers or radishes lying around? Toss them in! Just remember, the key is to keep it light and fresh.
How to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad
Making a Cucumber Tomato Salad is as easy as pie—if pie were a salad, that is. To start off, grab those 3 medium tomatoes and slice them up. You want them to be juicy and ripe since they’re the star of this dish.
Then, take 1 small cucumber and thinly slice it. I mean, who doesn’t love that crunchy bite? Once you’ve got those beauties prepped, find a serving bowl and layer half of the sliced tomatoes on the bottom. Next, add all of the cucumber slices, followed by the remaining tomatoes. It’s like a colorful tower of vitality; the more layers, the better, right?
Now, it’s time to sprinkle on that 1 chopped green onion. It adds a nice kick and a pop of color.
In a separate jar with a tight-fitting lid—because we don’t want any dressing disasters—combine the 3 tablespoons of Italian salad dressing, 1 tablespoon of vinegar, 1 teaspoon of fresh basil (or 1/4 teaspoon of dried basil if that’s what you have), 1/4 teaspoon of salt, a pinch of pepper, and a pinch of garlic salt.
Shake it like a Polaroid picture until everything is mixed well. Then, pour that zesty dressing over your salad. Cover the bowl and let it chill in the fridge for about 25 to 30 minutes. This allows all those flavors to mingle and get to know each other, like old friends at a reunion.
And there you have it! This Cucumber Tomato Salad isn’t just a dish; it’s a revitalizing experience, perfect for those lazy summer days or whenever you need a quick, healthy side.
Cucumber Tomato Salad Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up with your Cucumber Tomato Salad, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to contemplate.
You can swap out the tomatoes for ripe avocados for a creamier texture or add bell peppers for extra crunch. Instead of Italian dressing, try a zesty vinaigrette or a splash of lemon juice.
Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can add a unique twist, and feta cheese or olives can enhance the flavor profile. For a spicy kick, toss in some jalapeños.
Don’t hesitate to get creative and make this salad your own!
What to Serve with Cucumber Tomato Salad
Cucumber Tomato Salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
I love serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for an invigorating contrast. It’s also great with burgers or sandwiches, adding a light crunch to the plate.
If you’re hosting a barbecue, this salad complements smoky flavors beautifully. I often pair it with quinoa or pasta dishes, too, for a satisfying side.
You can even enjoy it with a simple cheese platter for a light lunch.
No matter the occasion, this salad enhances any meal with its vibrant flavors.
Additional Tips & Notes
To enhance your Cucumber Tomato Salad, I recommend using fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
You can also experiment with different types of cucumbers, like Persian or English, for added crunch. If you want a bit of heat, sprinkle in some diced jalapeños. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can give it a bright twist.
Remember to let the salad chill for at least 25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Finally, if you’re meal prepping, consider adding the dressing just before serving to keep everything crisp. Enjoy your revitalizing salad!