Simple & Refreshing Tomato & Cucumber Salad 🥗🍅🥒✨
1. Introduction
Discover the ultimate Tomato & Cucumber Salad, a dish that embodies freshness and simplicity. Perfect for summer picnics, quick lunches, or as a side dish for your dinner table, this refreshing cucumber salad combines crisp cucumbers with juicy tomatoes and a tangy dressing. Whether you’re seeking a simple tomato salad or a light refreshing cucumber salad, this recipe is versatile and easy to prepare. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful dish that celebrates fresh produce and bold flavors.
2. Ingredients for the Refreshing Tomato & Cucumber Salad
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 large cucumbers, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: feta cheese or olives for extra flavor
3. How to Make the Best Tomato & Cucumber Salad
Preparing the Vegetables
Start by washing all your fresh produce thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons, and halve the cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and flavor. Thinly slice the red onion to add a mild tang that complements the freshness of the vegetables.
Mixing the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and chopped basil. Toss gently to distribute the ingredients evenly. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper to create a tangy and slightly sweet dressing.
Combining and Serving
Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss until everything is well coated. For added flavor and texture, sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese or sliced olives if desired. Serve immediately for maximum freshness, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to allow flavors to meld. If you’re interested in exploring more vibrant salads, check out this Zesty Citrus Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado.
4. Tips for Perfecting Your Tomato & Cucumber Salad
- Use ripe, fresh tomatoes and cucumbers for the best flavor.
- Adjust the dressing ingredients to suit your taste — add more lemon juice for acidity or honey for sweetness.
- Chill the salad for 30 minutes before serving for a cooler, more refreshing experience.
- Experiment with additional herbs like mint or parsley for a different flavor twist.
5. Storage Tips for Leftover Tomato & Cucumber Salad
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep in mind that the cucumbers may release more water over time, so it’s best to serve shortly after preparation. For more light and healthy meal ideas, consider trying this Creamy Ground Beef Pasta.
6. Serving Suggestions for Your Refreshing Salad
- Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a wholesome meal.
- Enjoy as a side dish during barbecues or picnics.
- Top with crumbled feta or shredded mozzarella for added richness.
- Serve alongside crusty bread or pita for a Mediterranean-inspired platter.
7. FAQs About Tomato & Cucumber Salad
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best to prepare the dressing separately and toss it with the vegetables just before serving to keep the cucumbers crisp and fresh.
What substitutions can I use?
You can substitute red onions with green onions or chives, and swap the feta cheese with vegan alternatives or omit it entirely for a dairy-free version.
How long does it take to prepare?
The entire process takes approximately 15-20 minutes, making it an ideal quick and healthy option for busy weekdays.
8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
Investing in quality kitchen tools can make preparing this Tomato & Cucumber Salad even easier. [A good chef’s knife](https://www.example.com/chef-knife) ensures precise slicing of vegetables, while a [salad spinner](https://www.example.com/salad-spinner) helps dry your greens perfectly. To mix and serve with ease, consider a [large mixing bowl](https://www.example.com/large-mixing-bowl). These tools elevate your cooking experience and ensure your salad turns out beautifully every time.
9. Conclusion
This simple tomato salad and refreshing cucumber salad are perfect for anyone seeking a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish. Packed with fresh ingredients and a light dressing, it’s a crowd-pleaser that can be easily customized with your favorite herbs, cheeses, or toppings. Incorporate this vibrant salad into your regular meal rotation and enjoy the burst of freshness with every bite. For more inspiring recipes, explore our collection of delicious salads and healthy dishes on Serena Recipes.
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Simple & Refreshing Tomato & Cucumber Salad
Discover the ultimate Simple & Refreshing Tomato & Cucumber Salad, a healthy and vibrant dish perfect for summer picnics, quick lunches, or as a light side dish. This easy-to-make salad features crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and a tangy lemon-honey dressing, all packed with fresh flavors and essential nutrients. Ideal for those seeking a low-calorie, vegan-friendly, and gluten-free meal that is both refreshing and satisfying.
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 large cucumbers, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: feta cheese or olives for extra flavor
Instructions
- Start by washing all your fresh produce thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons, and halve the cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and flavor. Thinly slice the red onion to add a mild tang that complements the freshness of the vegetables.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and chopped basil. Toss gently to distribute the ingredients evenly. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper to create a tangy and slightly sweet dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss until everything is well coated. For added flavor and texture, sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese or sliced olives if desired. Serve immediately for maximum freshness, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
- Use ripe, fresh tomatoes and cucumbers for the best flavor.
- Adjust the dressing ingredients to suit your taste — add more lemon juice for acidity or honey for sweetness.
- Chill the salad for 30 minutes before serving for a cooler, more refreshing experience.
- Experiment with additional herbs like mint or parsley for a different flavor twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salads
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten-Free, Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 120 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
