This fresh tomato cucumber salad is super simple and full of bright flavors. With juicy tomatoes and crunchy cucumbers, it’s a perfect side dish for any meal!
I love how quick this salad is to make! Just chop the veggies, toss them together, and you’re ready to enjoy a refreshing and healthy bite. Perfect for hot days! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes are key for flavor. I prefer using vine-ripened tomatoes for their sweetness. If they’re not in season, canned tomatoes or cherry tomatoes can work in a pinch.
Cucumbers: Choose firm cucumbers for a satisfying crunch. If you want to lower the moisture, try using English cucumbers, which have fewer seeds. If you’re sensitive to cucumbers, zucchini can be a great substitute.
Red Onion: This gives a mild, sharp flavor. If you find red onion too strong, switch to green onions or shallots. For a sweeter taste, you can soak the slices in cold water for a bit before adding them to your salad.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is the way to go for a fruity flavor. If you don’t have it, try avocado oil or any other mild oil. Just skip the vegetable oil as it won’t add much taste.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a nice tang. If you’re dairy-free, try using almond cheese or omit it entirely for a simple fresh salad.
How Do I Make the Best Dressing for My Salad?
Getting your dressing right is crucial for a flavorful salad. Start with olive oil and vinegar (or lemon juice), and balance it with salt and pepper. Here’s a quick guide:
- Use a 2:1 ratio of oil to vinegar for a nice balance.
- Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, and whisk until blended.
- If you like, you can add a dash of honey or mustard for sweetness and depth.
Always taste your dressing before pouring it over the salad to make sure it’s just how you like it! This way, you can adjust the flavors before mixing everything together.
How to Make Easy Tomato Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 medium tomatoes, diced
- 2 medium cucumbers, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (or lemon juice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Feta cheese, crumbled (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. If you want the flavors to blend together more, chilling it for 15-20 minutes is a great idea. So altogether, you’re looking at around 30 minutes, including chilling time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, and thinly sliced red onion. Make sure to mix them gently so you don’t squish the tomatoes!
2. Add the Fresh Herbs:
Next, add the chopped parsley to the bowl with the vegetables. Fresh parsley adds a nice pop of color and flavor to your salad!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and red wine vinegar (or lemon juice). Sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste. This dressing will bring all the flavors together!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together. Make sure all the veggies are coated in that delicious dressing!
5. Add Optional Garnish:
If you like, sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese on top for extra flavor. It adds a nice creamy texture!
6. Serve or Chill:
You can serve the salad immediately for a fresh bite, or if you prefer, chill it in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes. This will let the flavors meld together beautifully!
Enjoy your delicious and easy tomato cucumber salad!
Can I Use Different Types of Vinegar for the Dressing?
Absolutely! While red wine vinegar adds a great flavor, you can substitute it with white wine vinegar, balsamic vinegar, or even apple cider vinegar. Lemon juice is also an excellent option for a fresh zing, so feel free to experiment based on your taste preferences!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! However, it’s best to mix the salad ingredients and dressing separately. Combine them up to 2 hours before serving to keep the cucumbers crisp. If you prep it too far in advance, the cucumbers might release water, making the salad soggy.
How to Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. You might want to keep the dressing separate if you plan on saving it, to maintain the freshness of the veggies. Before serving leftovers, give it a gentle toss to re-combine the ingredients!
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking to replace feta cheese, try using goat cheese or ricotta for a similar creamy texture. For a dairy-free option, you can use avocado, which adds creaminess and healthy fats to the salad!
