Refreshing and vibrant, this Cucumber Tomato Salad is a quintessential dish that epitomizes the freshness of its ingredients. A delightful blend of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, sharp red onions, and aromatic basil, this salad is dressed in a tangy and slightly sweet vinaigrette that enhances the natural flavors of the vegetables. It’s the perfect side dish for a summer barbecue or a healthy addition to your weekday meals.
This salad not only offers a burst of color and flavor but also provides a cooling relief on warm days. It’s simple to assemble and can be made in advance, making it a convenient option for gatherings and meal prep. Let’s prepare this garden-fresh salad that’s as healthy as it is delicious.
Preparation
This no-cook salad comes together quickly, requiring just a bit of chopping and whisking.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Salad
- Approximately 3 cups peeled & sliced cucumbers
- 3 Roma tomatoes, sliced into chunks
- ⅓ cup chopped red onion
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
For the Dressing
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¾ cup apple cider vinegar
- ½ tablespoon red wine vinegar
- ½ teaspoon dill weed
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, tomato chunks, chopped red onion, and fresh basil. Toss gently to mix the ingredients.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, red wine vinegar, dill weed, sugar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Continue whisking until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad, tossing to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Allow the salad to sit for about 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cucumber Tomato Salad as a refreshing side to grilled meats or as a light, standalone meal. It’s particularly good when served alongside grilled chicken or fish, providing a bright and tangy contrast to the smoky flavors.
Tips
- For the best texture, serve the salad shortly after it’s made, as the vegetables will start to soften as they marinate in the dressing.
- You can adjust the amount of vinegar in the dressing to suit your taste preferences. Some may prefer a less tart dressing, so feel free to reduce the vinegar or add a little more sugar.
Enjoy your Cucumber Tomato Salad, a delightful dish that brings the freshness of the garden right to your table!