This tomato and cucumber salad is a light and refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings or as a side for any meal. Made with fresh tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and a simple dressing, it offers a burst of flavor and color.
The recipe is quick to prepare and can be customized with additional ingredients like red onion, feta cheese, or herbs to enhance the taste.
Fresh Ingredients for a Delightful Salad
A vibrant tomato and cucumber salad brings together the best of summer produce.
Juicy, ripe tomatoes paired with crunchy cucumbers create a refreshing combination that is hard to resist.
The bright colors of the ingredients not only make the dish visually appealing but also signal the freshness that awaits in every bite.
Simple Preparation Steps
Preparing this salad is a breeze, taking just about 15 minutes from start to finish.
Begin by dicing the tomatoes and slicing the cucumbers.
If you choose to add red onion for an extra kick, slice it thinly to ensure it blends well with the other flavors.
Next, whip up a light vinaigrette using olive oil and red wine vinegar, seasoned with salt and pepper.
This dressing enhances the natural flavors of the vegetables without overpowering them.
Combining Flavors
In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes and sliced cucumbers.
Pour the vinaigrette over the top and toss gently to ensure every piece is coated.
This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Garnishing for Presentation
To elevate your salad, consider garnishing it with fresh parsley or basil.
These herbs not only add a pop of color but also a burst of flavor that complements the tomatoes and cucumbers perfectly.
A sprinkle of herbs can transform a simple dish into a stunning centerpiece for any table.
Serving Suggestions
This tomato and cucumber salad can be enjoyed immediately, but letting it chill in the refrigerator for a short while can enhance the flavors even more.
Serve it as a side dish at summer barbecues or alongside grilled meats for a refreshing contrast.
Its lightness makes it an ideal accompaniment to heavier meals.
Nutritional Benefits
Not only is this salad delicious, but it is also nutritious.
With only 120 calories per serving, it fits well into a healthy diet while providing essential vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables.
Enjoying a bowl of this salad is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals while savoring the delightful taste of summer.
Easy Tomato and Cucumber Salad Recipe
This salad features juicy tomatoes and crunchy cucumbers tossed in a light vinaigrette. It takes about 15 minutes to prepare and serves 4 people, making it an ideal choice for a quick and healthy dish.
Ingredients
- 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
- 2 medium cucumbers, sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Vegetables: Dice the tomatoes and slice the cucumbers and red onion if using.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: In a large bowl, add the diced tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, and red onion. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Garnish: If desired, sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil before serving.
- Serve: Enjoy the salad immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 120kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 8g