Fresh and Easy: Simple Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe

when the days grow warmer and the appetite calls for something light and refreshing, few dishes deliver simplicity and flavor as effortlessly as a cucumber tomato salad. This timeless combination of crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes not only awakens your taste buds but also celebrates the natural freshness of garden-fresh produce. In this article,we’ll explore a straightforward recipe that transforms these humble ingredients into a vibrant,colorful salad-perfect as a quick side dish or a healthy snack. Embrace the ease of fresh flavors wiht our simple cucumber tomato salad recipe, where minimal effort meets maximum refreshment.

Fresh and easy: Simple Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe brings a delightful burst of flavor and crisp textures to your table with minimal effort. Originating from sun-soaked Mediterranean kitchens,this vibrant salad blends juicy tomatoes and crisp cucumbers into a refreshing dish that perfectly balances brightness and crunch,ideal for any season or occasion.

Prep and Cook Time

• Readiness Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes

Yield

Serves 4 as a side dish

Difficulty Level

Easy – perfect for beginners and busy home cooks

Ingredients That Bring Vibrant Flavors and Crisp Textures

• 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced or diced
• 4 ripe Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (optional but recommended for freshness)
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (choose a peppery, high-quality variety)
• 1 1/2 tbsp red wine vinegar or freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tsp sea salt (adjust to taste)
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for subtle heat)
• Optional: 2 oz crumbled feta cheese or sliced Kalamata olives for added tang

Step-by-Step Guide to Effortless Preparation

1. Rinse and dry the cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly to ensure crispness and prevent dilution of flavors.
2. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or small cubes depending on your preferred texture. Place in a large mixing bowl.
3. Chop the tomatoes into equal-sized pieces to marry well with the cucumbers; add them to the bowl.
4. Thinly slice the red onion into translucent rings to infuse a mild, sweet crunch without overpowering the salad.
5. Add fresh herbs: sprinkle in the parsley and dill, which elevate the salad’s aroma and flavor complexity.
6. In a small bowl, whisk the olive oil, red wine vinegar, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper until emulsified.
7. pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to combine, ensuring each piece glistens with vibrant flavor.
8. Let the salad rest at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Tips for Enhancing Your Salad with Fresh Herbs and Dressings

• Customize your herb blend by swapping dill for fresh basil or mint for a unique aromatic twist.
• For even zingier dressings, try adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a drizzle of honey to balance acidity and sweetness.
• To avoid a watery salad, sprinkle salt over cucumbers frist and let sit for 5 minutes; then drain excess liquid before mixing.
• Use freshly squeezed lemon juice if red wine vinegar is unavailable: it brightens the salad with natural citrus notes.
• Crumbled feta cheese or sliced olives create depth and savory umami contrast to the crisp vegetables.

Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Simple Cucumber Tomato Salad

Serve chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side alongside grilled chicken, fish, or Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Garnish with a few herb sprigs or edible flowers for visual appeal. This salad also shines atop toasted rustic bread or as a crisp topping for pita pockets and wraps.

For an effortless lunch, add chunks of avocado and a handful of roasted nuts-like pine nuts or walnuts-for texture and richness. Pair with a chilled glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water infused with lemon and mint for a complete, vibrant dining experiance.

Chef’s Notes

• Make-ahead tip: Prepare dressing separately and toss with vegetables just before serving to maintain crispiness.
• Substitutions: English cucumbers can be swapped with Persian cucumbers for a similar crunch.
• Storage: Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container up to 24 hours; stir before serving as some liquid may separate.
• To enhance crunch, add thinly sliced celery or radishes for additional texture layers.

For more fresh salad inspirations, check our Mediterranean Salad Recipes or explore the health benefits of fresh herbs at Healthline.

Q&A

Q&A: Fresh and Easy – Simple cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe

Q1: What makes this cucumber tomato salad recipe stand out?
A1: This salad shines through its simplicity and freshness. With just a handful of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a light dressing, it offers a perfect balance of flavors that’s refreshing and satisfying without feeling heavy.

Q2: What ingredients do I need for this salad?
A2: The core ingredients are cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion (optional for a mild bite), fresh herbs like parsley or basil, olive oil, lemon juice or vinegar, salt, and pepper. The beauty lies in how these basic components come together effortlessly.

Q3: How do I prepare the vegetables to get the best texture?
A3: Slice cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons for a crisp bite, and chop tomatoes into bite-sized pieces to release their juiciness. If using red onion, slice it thinly to keep its sharpness from overpowering the salad.

Q4: Can I customize the dressing?
A4: Absolutely! A simple vinaigrette of olive oil and lemon juice is classic, but feel free to add a touch of honey for sweetness or a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth. Fresh herbs mixed in the dressing also elevate the flavor profile.

Q5: Is this salad suitable for meal prepping or making ahead?
A5: It’s best enjoyed fresh to preserve the crispness of the cucumbers and the bright notes of the tomatoes. If needed, store the dressing separately and toss the salad just before serving to avoid sogginess.

Q6: What dishes pair well with this cucumber tomato salad?
A6: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, or as a light side for a summer picnic. It also complements Mediterranean dishes, sandwiches, or can be served alongside grains like quinoa or couscous for a wholesome meal.Q7: Are there any variations to try?
A7: Definitely! try adding feta cheese for creaminess, olives for a briny touch, or sliced avocado for richness. Roasted nuts or seeds can add a delightful crunch, making the salad even more satisfying.

Q8: Is this recipe suitable for special diets?
A8: Yes, it’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and low in calories. It fits well into many dietary preferences,making it a versatile and healthy choice for anyone.

Insights and Conclusions

Whether you’re seeking a quick side dish for weeknight dinners or a refreshing salad to brighten up your meal, this simple cucumber tomato salad delivers effortless freshness with every bite. Its crisp textures and vibrant flavors show how minimal ingredients can create maximum satisfaction. so next time you want something light, colorful, and easy to prepare, remember this salad – a perfect harmony of garden-goodness made fresh and easy.