Cucumber and Tomato Salad Recipe

This Cucumber and Tomato Salad is a light, refreshing dish made with fresh vegetables and a simple, flavorful dressing. Perfect for summer, it combines juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and thinly sliced onions, all tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. This easy-to-make salad is ideal as a healthy side dish for barbecues, picnics, or as a light lunch option. With minimal ingredients and preparation time, it’s a great way to add a burst of freshness to any meal.

Ingredients:

• 4-6 medium tomatoes (about 2 lbs)
• 4-5 small cucumbers (about 1 lb), or 1 English cucumber
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced (about 1/4 lb)
• 2 Tbsp sunflower oil or extra virgin olive oil
• 1 Tbsp distilled white vinegar
• 1 tsp fine sea salt (or 3/4 tsp table salt)
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
• 2 Tbsp green onions, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Slice the tomatoes and cucumbers and place them in a large bowl. Thinly slice the onion and add it to the bowl with the tomatoes and cucumbers.
2. Make the Dressing: In a small ramekin, combine 2 tablespoons of sunflower oil, 1 tablespoon of vinegar, 1 teaspoon of fine sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir well until the ingredients are fully blended.
3. Dress the Salad: Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently. Taste the salad and add more salt if needed. Avoid adding the dressing too early to prevent the tomatoes from becoming too juicy.
4. Garnish: Sprinkle with green onions if desired, and serve immediately.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad is simple to prepare, requiring only a few fresh ingredients.
• Healthy and Light: Perfect for a low-calorie, nutritious side dish or snack.
• Refreshing: The crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes are a refreshing combination, ideal for summer.
• Customizable: Adjust the dressing and seasoning to your taste.

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Tips

• Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Chill the vegetables before making the salad for an extra refreshing taste.
• Slice the cucumbers thinly to ensure they mix well with the tomatoes and onion.
• If you prefer a tangier flavor, increase the vinegar slightly.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Add Herbs: Try adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a fragrant touch.
• Cheese Option: Crumbled feta or mozzarella can be added for extra richness.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few chopped jalapeños for a kick.
• Alternative Vinegar: Swap the distilled vinegar for balsamic or apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile.

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FAQs

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: While the salad is best served fresh, you can prepare the vegetables and dressing ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble the salad just before serving to avoid sogginess.

Q: Can I use a different oil?
A: Yes, you can substitute sunflower oil with olive oil or another mild-flavored oil.

Q: Can I add avocado to this salad?
A: Absolutely! Diced avocado would add creaminess and complement the other fresh ingredients.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a refreshing side dish to grilled meats, fish, or sandwiches.
• Pair with your favorite barbecue or picnic spread for a light and healthy addition.
• For a more substantial meal, add protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or beans.

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Final Thoughts

This cucumber and tomato salad is a simple, healthy, and vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s quick to prepare, full of fresh flavors, and can easily be customized to suit your taste. Perfect for summer meals, barbecues, or light lunches!