Refreshing Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe

Have you ever wondered why some cucumber salads taste refreshingly crisp while others turn soggy and bland? The secret lies not just in the ingredients but in how you prepare and balance the flavors. This refreshing cucumber salad recipe combines the cool crunch of cucumbers with the juicy sweetness of tomatoes, enhanced by a tangy vinaigrette that awakens your palate.

Whether you’re looking for a light side dish for summer BBQs or a healthy snack, this cucumber salad is a perfect choice that challenges the notion that salads have to be complicated to be delicious. Let’s dive into the best way to make a cucumber salad that’s bursting with flavor and texture right from the first bite.

Ingredients List

To create this vibrant cucumber salad, you’ll need fresh, quality ingredients that bring both texture and flavor:

• 2 large English cucumbers (or Persian cucumbers for thinner skin and fewer seeds; peel and seed regular slicing cucumbers if preferred)
• 4 large ripe tomatoes, cubed (choose juicy, firm varieties like Roma or vine-ripened)
• 1 cup thinly sliced red onion (for a sharp, savory contrast)
• 1 cup chopped green bell pepper (adds a sweet crunch)
• 1/3 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for herbal freshness)
• 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar (or substitute with white wine or red wine vinegar)
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced (for a subtle pungency)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (kosher or sea salt preferred)
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar (balances acidity; honey or agave nectar can work as alternatives)
• Optional fresh herbs: dill or basil for extra aromatic notes

Substitution Tips:

• If cucumbers are unavailable, try zucchini or celery for a similar crunch.
• For a sweeter twist, add thinly sliced apples or radishes.
• Use lemon juice instead of vinegar for a citrusy zing.

Timing

This cucumber salad is a quick and easy dish to prepare:

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Marination time: At least 1 hour (refrigerate to allow flavors to meld)
• Total time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes

Compared to many salad recipes that require longer marination or cooking, this recipe saves you time while delivering maximum freshness and flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Wash all produce thoroughly. Slice cucumbers thinly using a mandoline or sharp knife for even texture. Cube the tomatoes and chop the onion, green pepper, and parsley finely. This ensures every bite is balanced and flavorful.

Step 2: Salt the Cucumbers

Toss the sliced cucumbers and onions with 1/2 teaspoon salt and let them sit in a colander for 20-30 minutes. This step draws out excess water, preventing a soggy salad and enhancing crispness—a crucial tip backed by culinary experts to maintain texture.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, sugar, salt, and pepper until well combined. This vinaigrette is tangy and slightly sweet, perfectly complementing the fresh vegetables.

Step 4: Combine and Chill

Drain excess liquid from the cucumbers and onions. In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, tomatoes, green pepper, parsley, and the dressing. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Before serving, toss the salad again and garnish with fresh dill or basil if desired. Add a final grind of black pepper for a subtle kick.

Nutritional Information

This cucumber salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:

Cucumbers are about 95% water, making this salad hydrating and low in calories, while tomatoes contribute antioxidants and vitamins, making this a nutrient-dense, refreshing dish.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

• Vinegar choice: Opt for apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar for added health benefits and a milder flavor.
• Sweetener swap: Use natural sweeteners like honey or agave nectar instead of refined sugar.
• Oil alternatives: Try avocado oil for a heart-healthy fat boost.
• Add superfoods: Sprinkle chia seeds or hemp seeds for extra fiber and omega-3s.
• Make it dairy-free: This recipe is naturally free from dairy, suitable for paleo, keto, and vegan diets.

Serving Suggestions

This cucumber salad pairs wonderfully with:

• Grilled chicken, fish, or pork tenderloin for a light, cooling side.
• Sandwiches and wraps to add crunch and freshness.
• As a topping for tacos or Mediterranean bowls for a fresh contrast.

For a more substantial meal, serve over a bed of mixed greens or alongside quinoa or couscous. Personalize with a sprinkle of feta cheese or olives for a Mediterranean flair.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the salting step: Without salting, cucumbers release water into the salad, making it soggy and diluting flavors.
• Using waxed cucumbers without peeling: Waxed skins are tough and bitter; peel if using American slicing cucumbers.
• Adding dressing too early: Dress the salad just before serving or after chilling to maintain crispness.
• Over-slicing: Too thin slices can become mushy; aim for thin but firm slices.
• Not chilling: Refrigerating allows flavors to meld and enhances taste.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Store leftover cucumber salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Vinegar-based dressings help preserve freshness longer than creamy dressings. To maintain crispness, drain excess liquid before serving leftovers. Preparing the vegetables ahead and dressing just before serving can save time and keep the salad fresh.

Conclusion

This cucumber salad recipe is a quick, healthy, and delicious way to enjoy fresh summer produce. With crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a tangy dressing, it’s perfect for any occasion. Try it today, share your experience in the comments, and subscribe for more refreshing recipes and cooking tips!

FAQs

Q1: Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?
Yes, but peel and remove seeds to avoid bitterness and tough texture.

Q2: How long does cucumber salad last?
Store in the fridge up to 3 days; vinegar dressings last longer than creamy ones8.

Q3: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare vegetables ahead, dress just before serving to keep crispness.

Q4: What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?
White wine, red wine, or distilled vinegar are good substitutes.

Q5: How do I keep my cucumber salad from getting soggy?
Salt cucumbers to draw out moisture, drain well, and dress just before serving.

Refreshing Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe

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• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegan

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Description

A crisp and tangy cucumber salad bursting with freshness, perfect for summer BBQs or healthy snacking.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 4 large ripe tomatoes, cubed
• 1 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 1 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1/3 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• Optional fresh herbs: dill or basil

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Instructions

1. Wash and slice cucumbers thinly, cube tomatoes, and chop onion, pepper, and parsley.
2. Toss cucumbers and onions with 1/2 teaspoon salt and let sit in a colander for 20-30 minutes.
3. Whisk together vinegar, olive oil, garlic, sugar, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
4. Drain cucumbers and onions, then combine with tomatoes, green pepper, parsley, and dressing. Toss gently.
5. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
6. Toss again before serving and garnish with dill or basil if desired.

Notes

Salt the cucumbers beforehand to maintain crispness. Refrigerate to enhance flavors. Use fresh, quality produce for best results.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 30
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 105mg
• Fat: 1.5g
• Saturated Fat: 0.2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 1.3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: cucumber salad, tomato, refreshing, healthy, summer salad