Looking for a light and refreshing side dish that’s perfect for summer barbecues or as a crisp complement to your meals? This cucumber tomato salad is exactly what you need. It’s simple, quick to prepare, and the crispness of the cucumbers combined with juicy tomatoes will have your taste buds singing.
This salad is not only a feast for the eyes with its vibrant colors but also delivers a refreshing crunch in every bite. If you’re a fan of fresh ingredients, you’re going to love how easy it is to assemble. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a light lunch.
With the addition of zesty lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, this cucumber tomato salad is both rejuvenating and satisfying. It’s a great way to enjoy the garden-fresh flavors that summer has to offer.
Vibrant Ingredients
This cucumber tomato salad shines with its vibrant colors, showcasing the freshness of summer produce. The main stars of the dish are the crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes.
When selecting cucumbers, look for ones that are firm and unblemished. Their refreshing crunch adds a delightful texture to the salad. Pairing these with ripe tomatoes, particularly cherry varieties, provides a burst of sweetness that contrasts beautifully.
Adding red onion not only contributes a slight sharpness but also enhances the visual appeal with its vivid hue. Fresh parsley sprinkled on top offers a fragrant finish and a pop of green, elevating the salad’s presentation.
Preparing the Salad
Creating this salad is a straightforward process that requires minimal time and effort. Start by washing and slicing the cucumbers into thin rounds. Their crispness is essential for that satisfying crunch in every bite.
Next, halve the cherry tomatoes to unleash their juicy goodness. Thinly slice the red onion to ensure it blends well with the other ingredients without overpowering them. Finally, chop the fresh parsley, which will add brightness and a hint of herbaceous flavor.
Crafting the Dressing
A light dressing can elevate the flavors in this salad without weighing it down. To create the dressing, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice in a small bowl, adding salt and pepper to taste.
The olive oil provides a rich base, while lemon juice brings a refreshing tang. This combination enhances the natural flavors of the cucumbers and tomatoes, making them shine. Adjust the seasoning according to your palate for the ideal balance.
Mixing it All Together
Once your vegetables and dressing are ready, it’s time to combine them. In a large bowl, gently toss together the sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and parsley.
Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and mix gently to ensure every piece is coated without bruising the vegetables. This step ensures a harmonious blend of flavors in each serving.
Chilling for Flavor
For the best experience, allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before serving. This short wait will help the flavors meld beautifully, creating a more cohesive dish.
Serving the salad in a glass bowl not only showcases the colorful ingredients but also adds an elegant touch to your table setup. Perfectly chilled, this cucumber tomato salad will be a refreshing addition to any meal.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is incredibly versatile, making it a delightful accompaniment to a variety of dishes. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, offering a refreshing contrast to the smoky flavors of barbecued items.
Alternatively, it can stand alone as a light lunch or a healthy snack during hot afternoons. The crispness of the cucumbers combined with the juiciness of the tomatoes makes every bite enjoyable, whether served as a side or the main attraction.
Crisp and Flavorful Cucumber Tomato Salad
This cucumber tomato salad features refreshing slices of cucumber and ripe tomatoes, tossed together with a tangy dressing. The combination creates a light, crisp texture and a burst of flavor that’s invigorating and perfect for hot days.
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and slice the cucumbers, halved the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
- Combine: In a large bowl, toss together the cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and parsley.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and gently mix until everything is well coated.
- Serve: Allow to chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before serving for the flavors to meld. Enjoy fresh!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 80kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
