This Easy Tomato Cucumber Salad is the perfect dish for hot summer days! With fresh tomatoes, crispy cucumbers, and a sprinkle of herbs, it’s super refreshing and light.
Honestly, this salad is so simple I can whip it up in no time. Plus, it’s a great way to get those summer veggies in, and it tastes like sunshine on a plate! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tomatoes: Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. I recommend vine-ripened or heirloom varieties. If they’re hard to find, cherry tomatoes work too; just halve or quarter them.
Cucumbers: English cucumbers are my favorite since they’re crisp and have fewer seeds. If you can’t find them, any cucumber will do. Just peel them if they’re bitter.
Red Onion: This gives a nice sharpness and color. If it’s too strong for your taste, try green onions or skip the onion entirely. They both add freshness!
Herbs: Fresh parsley is classic, but cilantro adds a fun twist. If you’re not a fan of either, try fresh basil instead. It gives a different but delightful flavor.
Olive Oil & Vinegar or Lemon Juice: Extra virgin olive oil is great for flavor. If you’re looking for a milder taste, any light oil will work. For the acid, lemon juice offers a fresh zest if vinegar isn’t available.
How Do I Make the Vegetables Come Together Perfectly?
The key to a great salad is in the mixing and resting. After combining the veggies, let them sit for around 10 minutes. This short resting time helps them absorb the dressing and improves the flavors.
- Start with fresh ingredients for the best result.
- When slicing, keep your pieces consistent in size for even dressing coverage.
- Do a taste test before serving! Adjust the seasoning to your preference.
One last tip: make this salad early in the day and keep it in the fridge! It tastes even better after a few hours as the flavors meld together.
Easy Tomato Cucumber Salad Recipe for Summer
Ingredients:
- 3 large ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges
- 2 medium cucumbers, sliced or cut into half-moons
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad is super quick to make! You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation. Since it tastes best after being allowed to sit for about 10 minutes, allow a total time of around 20 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick summer side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Wash and Prepare the Vegetables:
Begin by washing all your fresh veggies. Cut the tomatoes into wedges, slice the cucumbers or cut them into half-moons, and thinly slice the red onion. Make sure your cuts are even for a lovely presentation!
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and chopped parsley or cilantro. This mixture is vibrant and colorful, making it visually appealing!
3. Drizzle the Dressing:
Next, pour the olive oil and red wine vinegar (or lemon juice) over the salad. This dressing will add great flavor and a bit of tanginess.
4. Season to Taste:
Add salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preferences. Remember, it’s easier to add more later, so start with a little!
5. Toss It All Together:
Gently toss everything in the bowl to combine and coat the vegetables in the dressing. You want to make sure every bite is flavorful!
6. Let It Rest:
Let your salad sit for about 10 minutes at room temperature. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the taste.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad fresh as a delightful side dish for your summer meals. Feel free to enjoy it as is or pair it with grilled meats or fish. Enjoy the burst of summer flavors!
FAQ for Easy Tomato Cucumber Salad Recipe
Can I Use Different Herbs in This Salad?
Absolutely! While parsley and cilantro are great choices, you can also use fresh basil or dill for a different flavor twist. Just chop them finely and mix them in for freshness!
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind the salad may get watery over time, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Sure! Feel free to get creative by adding bell peppers, radishes, or even avocado. Just chop them up into similar sizes for a well-balanced salad.
Is This Salad Vegan-Friendly?
Yes! This salad is completely vegan as it contains no animal products. Enjoy it as a light, healthy option for anyone following a plant-based diet!
