Name: Tomato Cucumber Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved); 5 mini cucumbers (sliced into 1/4' coins); 2 Tablespoons red onions (diced); 2 Tablespoons fresh basil leaves (chopped); 3 teaspoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar; salt (to taste); freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Introduction to Tomato Cucumber Salad

Are you looking for a refreshing and vibrant side dish that’s both easy to whip up and bursting with flavor? Look no further than the Tomato Cucumber Salad! This delightful mix of juicy cherry tomatoes and crisp cucumbers not only appeals to the taste buds but also delivers a splash of color to your table. Perfect for summer barbecues or weekday dinners, this salad provides a healthy way to enjoy fresh produce and is laden with vitamins to keep you energized.

So why is Tomato Cucumber Salad a must-try? For starters, it's incredibly versatile. You can easily tweak the ingredients to match your preferences or what you have on hand. Want a bit of crunch? Toss in some radishes. Craving a hint of sweetness? Add a dash of honey.

Not only is it a culinary delight, but it's also packed with nutrients. A serving of this salad contains only 65 calories while providing essential vitamins and minerals. Plus, it takes just 10 minutes to prepare! For anyone short on time but looking to eat healthier, this is your go-to dish. As a bonus, it's perfect for meal prep—make a big batch at the beginning of the week, and you’re set for quick lunches or sides. Learn more about the benefits of fresh vegetables here.

What are you waiting for? Dive into this refreshing Tomato Cucumber Salad recipe below!

Ingredients for Tomato Cucumber Salad

Creating a vibrant Tomato Cucumber Salad is all about using fresh, quality ingredients. Here’s a breakdown to make your preparation seamless and enjoyable!

Fresh produce essentials

Cherry Tomatoes: Start with about 2 cups of juicy, ripe cherry tomatoes, halved to release their natural sweetness.
Cucumbers: For the crunch factor, use 5 mini cucumbers or 1 ½ English cucumbers, sliced into delightful ¼-inch coins. They add a refreshing crispness to every bite.
Red Onion: About 2 tablespoons of diced red onion will provide a mild sharpness that complements the other ingredients.

When choosing your vegetables, go for organic or locally sourced produce if possible. Not only is it better for the environment, but it often tastes fresher!

Dressing ingredients

Olive Oil: A good-quality extra virgin olive oil, about 3 teaspoons, is essential for that rich flavor.
Vinegar: Substitute red wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a zesty touch. Just 1 teaspoon works wonders in balancing the salad.
Seasonings: Don't forget salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste! These staples elevate your dish's overall flavor profile.

With these core ingredients, you’re set for a delicious Tomato Cucumber Salad that’s perfect for any summer gathering. For a deeper dive into health benefits of these ingredients, check out Healthline’s article on nutrition.

Preparing Tomato Cucumber Salad

Making a Tomato Cucumber Salad is one of the easiest and most refreshing ways to celebrate the vibrant flavors of summer. Packed with juicy cherry tomatoes and crunchy cucumbers, this dish not only brightens up your meal but also offers numerous health benefits. Let's walk through the process step-by-step.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before we dive into the fun part—assembling our salad—let’s make sure you have everything you need. For this delightful recipe, you'll need:

2 cups of halved cherry tomatoes
5 mini cucumbers, sliced into ¼” coins (or 1 ½ English cucumbers)
3 teaspoons of olive oil
1 teaspoon of red wine vinegar
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons of diced red onions
2 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil leaves

Having these fresh ingredients lined up will make the process smooth and enjoyable. Pro tip: Opt for organic vegetables whenever possible to enhance flavor and support health.

Slice the Cucumbers and Cherry Tomatoes

Once everything is prepped, it’s time to slice your cucumbers and cherry tomatoes.

Begin by washing your vegetables under running water to remove any dirt or pesticides.
Cut the cucumbers into ¼-inch coins – this thickness strikes the perfect balance between crunchiness and tenderness.
Halve the cherry tomatoes and place them in a bowl.

You’ll notice that the colors are starting to pop—a good indicator of a fresh salad!

Mix the Dressing

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.

Feel free to adjust the olive oil and vinegar ratios according to your taste preference.
A little tip: for a zesty twist, you might add a dash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of garlic powder.

This simple dressing brings everything together, making each bite a harmonious blend of flavors.

Combine Ingredients in a Bowl

Now comes the fun part—combining everything!

In a large salad bowl, toss the cherry tomatoes and cucumbers with the dressing.
Add the diced red onions and chopped basil for an extra burst of flavor and aroma.

As you mix, you’ll see the ingredients glisten from the olive oil, making it oh-so-appetizing!

Toss and Serve

Finally, give everything a good toss to ensure each piece is coated in that delicious dressing.

Serve your Tomato Cucumber Salad immediately for the freshest taste, or chill it for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Enjoy it alongside grilled chicken or as a standalone dish at your next potluck.

And there you have it! A simple, healthy Tomato Cucumber Salad that’s ready to delight your taste buds. Cooking should be enjoyable, so don’t hesitate to experiment with different herbs or even add some feta cheese for a creamy touch. Happy eating!

Variations on Tomato Cucumber Salad

Tomato Cucumber Salad is wonderfully versatile! Here are a couple of delicious twists to elevate your dish even further.

Add feta cheese for a tangy twist

For a delightful burst of flavor, crumble some feta cheese over your Tomato Cucumber Salad. The salty creaminess of feta pairs beautifully with the fresh tomatoes and cucumbers. You can even sprinkle on some oregano for an extra kick! This not only enhances the taste but also adds a beautiful color contrast to your salad.

Incorporate avocado for creaminess

If you’re looking for something creamier, toss in diced avocado. The rich, buttery texture of avocado complements the crisp vegetables perfectly, making your Tomato Cucumber Salad feel indulgent yet healthy. Plus, it adds a dose of healthy fats that can keep you satisfied longer. Who could say no to more creaminess?

Try these variations and see which one becomes your new favorite!

Cooking tips and notes for Tomato Cucumber Salad

Choosing ripe tomatoes and refreshing cucumbers

When crafting your Tomato Cucumber Salad, selecting the right produce makes all the difference. Look for firm, vibrant cherry tomatoes that smell sweet and look glossy. If using mini or English cucumbers, choose ones with smooth skin and a rich green color. These will ensure a crispy and refreshing bite in your salad.

Prepping in advance for busy days

For those hectic weekdays, preparing your salad ahead of time can be a lifesaver. Chop your tomatoes and cucumbers in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Just before serving, mix in the olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper to keep everything fresh and flavorful. This way, you can have a healthy side dish ready in minutes—perfect for complementing weeknight dinners!

Explore more about the benefits of meal prep on Healthline.

Serving suggestions for Tomato Cucumber Salad

Perfect pairings for BBQs and picnics

If you’re heading to a barbecue or picnic, Tomato Cucumber Salad is a fantastic addition to the table. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats like chicken, turkey, or beef. Imagine serving it alongside some juicy grilled chicken skewers or peppery steak burgers. The freshness of the salad complements rich flavors wonderfully, cutting through any heaviness on your plate.

Ideal dish for meal prepping

Meal prepping can be a game changer for busy weekdays, and this salad fits effortlessly into that routine. Make a big batch and store it in airtight containers for healthy lunches or quick snacks. The crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes maintain their texture in the fridge for a few days, making it perfect for grab-and-go meals. If you want to explore more meal prep ideas, check out Meal Prep on Fleek for inspiration.

With these serving suggestions, your Tomato Cucumber Salad will be the star of your meals, whether you’re entertaining or enjoying a solo lunch at your desk!

Time Breakdown for Tomato Cucumber Salad

Preparation Time

This delightful Tomato Cucumber Salad takes just 10 minutes to whip up! Perfect for those busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings, you can have this refreshing dish ready in no time.

Total Time

In total, you're looking at 10 minutes from start to finish. Yep, that’s all it takes to create a vibrant salad that’s not only healthy but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for impressing your friends or adding a touch of brightness to your dinner table!

Feeling inspired? Try pairing this salad with other quick summer dishes like grilled chicken or veggie skewers. For more tips on quick meals, check out this article on 15-minute recipes.

Nutritional Facts for Tomato Cucumber Salad

Calories per Serving

Each serving of Tomato Cucumber Salad contains approximately 65 calories, making it a perfect low-calorie side dish for your summer gatherings or a light lunch option. This salad is not just delicious but also friendly for those watching their calorie intake.

Key Vitamins and Minerals

This fresh and colorful salad boasts an impressive array of vitamins and minerals. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Vitamin A: 540 IU (great for vision and immune health)
Vitamin C: 18.6 mg (boosts your immune system and skin health)
Calcium: 45 mg (essential for strong bones)
Iron: 1 mg (important for energy levels)

The combination of tomatoes and cucumbers not only makes for a refreshing dish but also adds vital nutrients to your diet. For more on the benefits of these ingredients, consider visiting Healthline.

FAQs about Tomato Cucumber Salad

How can I make my salad last longer?

To keep your Tomato Cucumber Salad fresh for longer, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For optimal freshness, consider keeping the dressing separate until shortly before serving. This prevents the salad from becoming soggy, preserving those crisp textures.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This Tomato Cucumber Salad can be made up to a day in advance. Just remember to add the dressing only an hour or so before serving to maintain the vibrant colors and textures. Fresh basil can also be added at the last minute to preserve its flavor.

What dressing alternatives can I use?

If you want to get creative, try different dressings! A lemon vinaigrette adds a zesty twist, while a creamy yogurt dressing offers a rich texture. You can also experiment with balsamic vinegar or a splash of citrus juice for a delicious variation. For more ideas, check out dressing options on sites like Bon Appétit.

Conclusion on Tomato Cucumber Salad

In summary, tomato cucumber salad is an effortless and nutritious side dish that brightens up any meal. With its fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, it’s perfect for summer gatherings. Try adding your favorite proteins or herbs for a personal twist, and enjoy this refreshing dish as part of your healthy lifestyle!