If you are searching for a refreshing and vibrant dish that captures the essence of fresh garden produce, this Cucumber and Tomato Salad Recipe is an absolute must-try. Bursting with bright colors and crisp textures, it brings together the cool crunch of cucumbers and the juicy sweetness of tomatoes, all perfectly balanced with a tangy, aromatic dressing. Whether you’re looking for a quick side to complement any meal or a light, healthy snack, this salad offers simplicity without sacrificing flavor. It’s truly a delightful way to celebrate fresh ingredients in their purest form.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cucumber and Tomato Salad Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that’s both satisfying and refreshing.
- Cucumbers: Choose large, firm cucumbers for a cool crunch that contrasts beautifully with juicy tomatoes.
- Tomatoes: Ripe, large tomatoes add vibrant color and natural sweetness to the salad.
- Red Wine Vinegar: This adds a bright, tangy note that lifts the entire dish and balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Olive Oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for a rich, fruity flavor that coats each bite.
- Salt: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors, but don’t forget to adjust it to your taste.
- Black Pepper: A pinch of freshly ground black pepper gives a subtle kick and depth to the dressing.
How to Make Cucumber and Tomato Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by washing your cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly. Peel the cucumbers if their skin feels too thick or waxy, then cut both the cucumbers and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. This ensures every forkful is easy to eat and packed with fresh flavor.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and black pepper. This simple dressing is key to bringing all the salad ingredients together, giving the dish its distinctive tang and richness.
Step 3: Combine and Toss
Place the chopped cucumbers and tomatoes in a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over them and toss gently but thoroughly until every piece is evenly coated. This stage is crucial for marrying the flavors beautifully.
Step 4: Let It Rest
Allow the salad to sit for at least 20 minutes before serving. This waiting time lets the vegetables soak up the dressing, intensifying the taste and making every bite a celebration of freshness.
How to Serve Cucumber and Tomato Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Add a touch of elegance and extra flavor with fresh herbs like chopped basil, dill, or parsley. A sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese or toasted nuts can also add a lovely texture contrast and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or light seafood dishes. Its fresh and tangy notes complement rich and savory mains perfectly, making it a versatile companion for your meals.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try layering the salad in clear glass jars or serving it in hollowed-out tomato or cucumber halves. These creative presentation ideas make the salad look as delightful as it tastes, perfect for entertaining guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best eaten within a day or two to maintain the crispness of the cucumbers and the freshness of the tomatoes.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this Cucumber and Tomato Salad Recipe because the high water content in cucumbers and tomatoes will cause them to become mushy upon thawing, changing the texture significantly.
Reheating
This salad is intended to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Reheating it would diminish its refreshing qualities and is not advisable.
FAQs
Can I use other types of vinegar for the dressing?
Absolutely! While red wine vinegar is traditional, you can experiment with apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar to introduce different flavor profiles. Just adjust the quantity to your taste.
Should I peel the cucumbers?
It depends on your preference and the cucumber variety; if the skin is thin and tender, you can leave it on for extra texture and nutrients. Otherwise, peeling is a good idea to avoid bitterness or waxy residue.
How long can this salad sit before serving?
Letting the salad rest for 20 to 30 minutes is ideal, as it allows the flavors to meld. However, avoid leaving it too long, as the cucumbers and tomatoes may release too much water and become soggy.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Yes! Feel free to add thinly sliced red onions, bell peppers, or fresh herbs to customize your salad while keeping the core freshness of cucumbers and tomatoes.
Is this recipe gluten-free and vegan?
This Cucumber and Tomato Salad Recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegan, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences and lifestyles.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about a dish that celebrates simple, fresh ingredients in such an effortless way. I encourage you to try this Cucumber and Tomato Salad Recipe soon—it’s a refreshing, flavorful addition to any meal and a perfect way to brighten up your table with minimal fuss. Once you make it, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again, especially when you crave that crisp freshness that only garden-fresh vegetables can offer.
Print
Cucumber and Tomato Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes + 20 minutes resting
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and simple Cucumber and Tomato Salad featuring crisp cucumbers and ripe tomatoes tossed in a tangy red wine vinegar and olive oil dressing, perfect as a light side dish or appetizer.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 large Cucumbers (peeled if desired)
- 4 large Tomatoes
Dressing
- ¼ cup Red Wine Vinegar
- ¼ cup Olive Oil
- ½ teaspoon Salt (plus more to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper (plus more to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Cut the cucumbers and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are roughly uniform in size for an even texture in each bite.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and black pepper until fully combined and slightly emulsified.
- Toss the salad: Place the cut cucumbers and tomatoes in a large mixing bowl. Pour the prepared dressing over the vegetables and toss gently but thoroughly to coat every piece evenly.
- Let it marinate: Allow the salad to sit for at least 20 minutes at room temperature. This resting period lets the flavors meld together for a more vibrant taste.
- Serve and enjoy: Give the salad a final toss before serving. Adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. Enjoy this fresh and healthy salad as a side or a light meal.
Notes
- Peeling cucumbers is optional; leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients if preferred.
- The salad can be made ahead and refrigerated, but add dressing right before serving if you prefer a crunchier texture.
- Adjust the amount of vinegar and oil to suit your taste for a more or less tangy dressing.
- This salad pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a refreshing snack.
