Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this cucumber tomato salad refreshing recipe that’s absolutely perfect for those hot summer days! It’s so light and zesty, it practically dances on your taste buds. I remember the first time I made this salad—it was at a family picnic, and everyone just went wild for it! The colors are so vibrant, and the fresh ingredients really shine through, making it not just a dish, but a celebration of summer itself.

This salad is super simple to whip up, and trust me, you don’t need to be a culinary genius to make it shine. Just grab some fresh cucumbers and ripe tomatoes from your local market, and you’re halfway there! The crunch of the cucumbers paired with the juiciness of the tomatoes is a match made in heaven. Plus, it’s a great way to use up those garden veggies if you’re lucky enough to have your own. So, let’s dive into this refreshing recipe that’s bound to be a hit at your next gathering or just as a quick side for dinner!

Ingredients List

2 cups cucumber, diced
2 cups tomato, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Make sure you grab the freshest ingredients you can find! The crunch of the cucumbers and the sweetness of the tomatoes are what make this salad so refreshing. I always love adding a little extra parsley for that pop of color and flavor, but feel free to adjust according to your preference. Enjoy the process of prepping these lovely ingredients, and you’ll see just how easy and delightful it is to create this vibrant dish!

How to Prepare Instructions

Step 1: Combine Vegetables

First things first, grab yourself a large mixing bowl because we’re about to create something truly special! Start by adding the diced cucumbers and tomatoes into the bowl. Make sure they’re mixed well, so every bite has that amazing crunch from the cucumbers and juicy sweetness from the tomatoes. Give them a gentle stir to get those flavors mingling right from the start!

Step 2: Add Fresh Ingredients

Next up, it’s time to enhance our salad with some flavor boosters! Toss in the finely chopped red onion and the fresh parsley. The red onion adds a nice bite, while the parsley brings a beautiful pop of color and freshness that makes this salad sing! Just fold them in gently; you want to keep that beautiful texture intact. Trust me, these ingredients are essential for taking your cucumber tomato salad to the next level!

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

Now, let’s whip up the dressing! In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. I like to whisk it together until it’s nice and emulsified—this really helps the flavors blend beautifully. Don’t rush this part; take a moment to really mix it well. The lemon juice adds that zesty brightness that complements the veggies perfectly!

Step 4: Toss the Salad

Once your dressing is ready, pour it over the salad mixture. Here’s where the magic happens! Gently toss everything together so that the dressing coats all those lovely veggies. Be careful not to over-mix; we don’t want to mush anything up! Just a few gentle turns with a spatula or your hands will do the trick.

Step 5: Serve or Chill

Now, you have a choice! You can serve this salad right away for a fresh, crisp bite, or if you have a little time, let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes. Chilling will deepen those flavors and make it even more refreshing! If you choose to chill, consider serving it in a beautiful bowl to show off those vibrant colors. Either way, you’re in for a treat!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional values for this delicious cucumber tomato salad refreshing recipe. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But it’s good to know what you’re munching on!

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 120
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 50mg
Cholesterol: 0mg

This salad is not only refreshing but also a healthy choice packed with nutrients! Enjoy every vibrant bite knowing it’s doing good for your body.

FAQ Section

How long can I store this salad?

You can store this cucumber tomato salad in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. However, I recommend enjoying it as soon as possible for the best flavor and crunch! The longer it sits, the more the cucumbers can release their water, which might make the salad a bit soggy.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with this salad. You can add bell peppers for a sweet crunch, or even some diced avocado for creaminess. If you have some zucchini or radishes on hand, those would be fantastic additions too! The beauty of this salad is its versatility, so mix and match according to your taste and what you have available!

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this salad is great for meal prep! Just prepare it as usual, but keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat. This will help maintain the freshness of the veggies. When you’re ready to enjoy, pour the dressing over and give it a good toss. It’s a refreshing and healthy option to have on hand for quick lunches or snacks during the week!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare—ready in just 15 minutes!
Made with fresh ingredients that burst with flavor.
Super refreshing—perfect for hot summer days.
Healthy and nutritious, packed with vitamins and minerals.
Versatile—customizable with your favorite veggies.
Great as a side dish or a light main meal.
Pairs beautifully with grilled meats and other summer dishes.

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your cucumber tomato salad is nothing short of spectacular! Here are some of my top tips to ensure you nail this refreshing recipe every time:

Use the freshest produce: The quality of your cucumbers and tomatoes really shines through, so try to get the freshest ones you can find. Local farmers’ markets are usually a goldmine for vibrant, flavorful veggies!
Chill your ingredients: If you have time, pop your cucumbers and tomatoes in the fridge for a little while before you start. This extra chill can enhance that refreshing crunch, making every bite feel even cooler.
Adjust the seasoning: Don’t be afraid to taste and tweak! Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to adjust the salt, pepper, or lemon juice according to your liking. A little extra lemon can brighten up the flavors even more!
Let it rest: If you can, let the salad sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes after tossing it with the dressing. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.
Presentation matters: When serving, consider using a beautiful bowl and maybe even garnish with a sprig of parsley or a slice of lemon on the edge. It makes the salad look inviting and just a little bit fancier!
Experiment: Use this recipe as a base and get creative with your additions! Try adding a sprinkle of feta cheese, some olives, or even a handful of nuts for extra texture. The sky’s the limit!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re ready to impress your friends and family with a stunning and delicious cucumber tomato salad that screams summer! Enjoy every bite!

Serving Suggestions

This cucumber tomato salad refreshing recipe is such a versatile dish that it pairs beautifully with a variety of meals and drinks. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions that’ll take your summer dining experience to the next level:

Grilled Meats: This salad is a perfect companion for grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp. The freshness of the salad complements the smoky flavors of the grilled protein beautifully.
Sandwiches: Serve it alongside a hearty sandwich, like a classic turkey or a Mediterranean veggie wrap. The refreshing crunch of the salad cuts through the richness of the sandwich!
Pasta Dishes: Pair it with light pasta dishes, especially ones featuring olive oil, garlic, or lemon. The salad adds a vibrant contrast to creamy or heavier sauces.
Fish Tacos: If you’re in the mood for something fun, fish tacos topped with a bit of lime and cilantro are a match made in heaven with this salad. The zesty flavors just sing together!
Drinks: For drinks, consider serving it with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light, refreshing cocktail, such as a gin and tonic or a mojito. These drinks complement the salad’s fresh flavors perfectly.
Picnic Delight: Take it on a picnic! It’s easy to transport and can be enjoyed with a variety of finger foods like cheese platters, crackers, and fresh fruits.

With these suggestions, you’re all set to create a delightful summer meal that’s not only satisfying but also bursting with flavor. Enjoy every moment and every bite of this refreshing salad!

Cucumber Tomato Salad Refreshing Recipe: 5 Comforting Steps

Author: [email protected]
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Salad
Method: No-cook
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Diet: Vegan

Print Recipe

Description

A refreshing cucumber tomato salad recipe perfect for summer.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups cucumber, diced
2 cups tomato, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine diced cucumber and tomato.
Add red onion and parsley to the bowl.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently.
Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Adjust seasoning according to your taste.
This salad pairs well with grilled meats.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 120
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 50mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: cucumber tomato salad refreshing recipe

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