Introduction
Craving a refreshing, light dish to cool off on a hot day? This chilled cucumber tomato salad recipe is the perfect solution! With crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a tangy dressing, this salad is a summertime favorite. Easy to prepare and full of vibrant flavors, it’s a dish everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish for dinner or bringing it to a picnic, this cucumber tomato salad is sure to be a hit. In this article, we’ll guide you through the ingredients, preparation, and tips to make it perfect every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chilled cucumber tomato salad is more than just a side dish – it’s a burst of fresh flavors in every bite. The crunchy cucumbers and ripe tomatoes create a satisfying texture, while the cool, tangy dressing ties it all together. The balance of flavors is what makes this recipe irresistible: the slight sweetness of the tomatoes, the coolness of the cucumbers, and the zesty dressing come together to create a deliciously refreshing experience. It’s light enough for a hot summer day, yet flavorful enough to accompany any meal. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, so you’ll have more time to enjoy your meal. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a dish that’s perfect for barbecues, this chilled salad fits the bill. It’s a low-calorie option packed with vitamins and refreshing goodness!
Recipe Details
This chilled cucumber tomato salad has roots in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, where fresh vegetables are often used to create vibrant, refreshing dishes. It’s a classic that’s served in many forms across the world, each with slight variations in dressing and seasonings. The most common preparation involves chopping cucumbers and tomatoes, then tossing them with herbs and a simple dressing made of olive oil, vinegar, and seasoning. The salad is often chilled for a short time before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. This no-cook recipe relies on fresh, seasonal ingredients, making it a go-to dish during the warmer months. It’s easy to prepare, making it ideal for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs.
Nutritional Information
This chilled cucumber tomato salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Cucumbers are rich in water, making them incredibly hydrating, while tomatoes provide a healthy dose of antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is beneficial for heart health. The salad is also low in calories, making it a great option for anyone watching their weight. A typical serving of this salad (about 1 cup) contains approximately:
- Calories: 50
- Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 1g
- Vitamin A: 6% of the daily value
- Vitamin C: 15% of the daily value
The olive oil in the dressing provides healthy fats, while the fresh herbs offer additional antioxidants. This salad is naturally gluten-free, vegan, and low-carb, making it suitable for various dietary needs. It’s also a great way to get your daily dose of veggies without sacrificing flavor!
Ingredients
To make this chilled cucumber tomato salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Cucumbers: Choose firm, fresh cucumbers for the best texture. English cucumbers are a great option since they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin.
- Tomatoes: Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor. Roma or heirloom tomatoes work wonderfully in this salad.
- Red onion: Adds a mild, tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- Fresh herbs (parsley or dill): Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor. Dill works especially well with cucumbers, but parsley is a nice alternative.
- Olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a rich, smooth texture to the dressing.
- Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar provides the necessary acidity.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the vegetables.
Each ingredient is chosen for its ability to balance flavor and texture, ensuring that every bite is refreshing and satisfying.
Equipment Needed
To prepare the chilled cucumber tomato salad, you’ll need a few simple kitchen tools:
- Cutting board: For chopping the vegetables and herbs.
- Sharp knife: A sharp knife will make slicing the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions easier and safer.
- Large mixing bowl: To toss the salad ingredients and combine them with the dressing.
- Serving bowl: If you’re preparing the salad ahead of time, a separate serving bowl can be helpful for presentation.
- Refrigerator: A chilled salad is essential for the best flavor and texture, so refrigerate the salad for at least an hour before serving.
If you don’t have a sharp knife, a mandoline slicer can also be used to create uniform, thin slices of cucumber.
Pro Tips For Success
To make sure your chilled cucumber tomato salad turns out perfect every time, here are some helpful tips:
- Use fresh, in-season vegetables: The quality of the vegetables you use will make a big difference in the final result. Choose tomatoes that are firm and ripe, and opt for crisp cucumbers that haven’t been sitting in your fridge for too long.
- Chill the salad: For the best texture and flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the salad to become more refreshing.
- Don’t over-salt: Add salt gradually and taste as you go. Too much salt can overpower the other flavors in the salad.
- Customize your dressing: Feel free to tweak the dressing to your taste. You can add a pinch of sugar or honey for sweetness or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.
- Use a gentle hand when mixing: After combining the vegetables and dressing, toss gently to avoid bruising the tomatoes or cucumbers.
- Add more crunch: For extra texture, top the salad with nuts like slivered almonds or sunflower seeds, or even crispy chickpeas.
Instructions
- Prep the vegetables: Begin by washing the cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly. Peel the cucumbers if desired (English cucumbers have thin skin and don’t need to be peeled). Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference. Cut the tomatoes into bite-sized chunks. Slice the red onion thinly.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can also add a teaspoon of mustard or garlic for an extra layer of flavor.
- Combine the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and herbs. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all of the ingredients.
- Chill and serve: Place the salad in the fridge and let it chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve cold and enjoy!
Recipe Variations
This cucumber tomato salad recipe is versatile and can be customized in many ways:
- Add cheese: Crumbled feta or goat cheese can add creaminess and flavor.
- Make it spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to give the salad a little heat.
- Add olives: Kalamata or green olives can add a briny punch to the dish.
- Vegan twist: Substitute the honey in the dressing for maple syrup or agave nectar for a fully vegan-friendly version.
- Add avocado: Creamy avocado slices pair beautifully with the crunchy cucumbers and tomatoes.
- Grilled version: For a smoky flavor, grill the cucumbers and tomatoes for a few minutes before adding them to the salad.
Storage Instructions
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. The salad will stay fresh for up to 2 days, though the cucumbers may start to soften over time. For longer storage, you can freeze the dressing separately and add it to the vegetables when you’re ready to serve. However, freezing the vegetables themselves is not recommended as they may lose their crunch.
Serving Suggestions
This chilled cucumber tomato salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood, or vegetarian dishes. Try it alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors. It also works well as a side dish for a picnic or barbecue. To elevate the presentation, garnish the salad with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad up to 24 hours in advance. Just be sure to keep it chilled in the fridge to maintain its freshness.
2. Can I use other vegetables in this salad?
Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, radishes, or even carrots for extra crunch and color.
3. What can I use instead of red onion?
You can substitute with green onions or shallots for a milder flavor.
4. Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Yes, white vinegar or lemon juice can also work as substitutes for apple cider vinegar.
5. How do I make the dressing tangier?
Add more vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to increase the acidity and tanginess.
6. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free.
7. How can I make this salad spicier?
Add sliced chili peppers, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to give it some heat.
8. Can I add protein to this salad?
Yes, you can add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even shrimp to turn this into a full meal.
9. Can I use a store-bought dressing?
While homemade dressing is recommended, you can use a store-bought vinaigrette if you’re short on time.
10. Can I freeze the salad?
It’s best to enjoy this salad fresh, as freezing will affect the texture of the cucumbers and tomatoes.
Conclusion
This chilled cucumber tomato salad is the perfect refreshing dish for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or simply looking for a healthy, light side dish. With its fresh ingredients and tangy dressing, it’s bound to become a go-to favorite. Don’t forget to give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!