Here’s a refreshing and vibrant cucumber tomato salad that’s perfect for hot days or as a side dish to any meal. With its crisp textures and bright flavors, this salad is a staple in many cuisines. Easy to prepare and bursting with freshness, it’s the ideal addition to your dining table, whether for a family gathering or a casual lunch. Dive into this recipe, and enjoy the taste of summer in every bite!
Ingredients
– 2 medium cucumbers, sliced
– 3 ripe tomatoes, sliced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and no cooking is required.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the salad) contains approximately 150 calories, 10g fat, 8g carbohydrates, 3g protein, and a rich source of vitamins A and C. This nutritional information is based on a single serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Wash the cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly.
2. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds.
3. Cut the tomatoes into wedges.
4. Thinly slice the red onion.
5. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions.
6. Add the fresh basil leaves to the bowl.
7. Crumble the feta cheese over the salad mix.
8. Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Toss gently to combine all ingredients and serve immediately.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute the feta cheese with goat cheese or omit it for a vegan version. You can also add ingredients like bell peppers or olives for extra flavor and variety.
Serving and Pairings
This cucumber tomato salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fish, or as part of a larger antipasto platter. It also works well as a refreshing side to pasta dishes or sandwiches.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well. Avoid reheating, as it may cause the vegetables to become soggy.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overdressing the salad can make it soggy; start with a little and add more if needed.
- Using unripe tomatoes can lead to a lack of flavor; always choose ripe ones.
- Not letting the salad sit for a few minutes before serving can miss out on flavor melding.
- Chopping the ingredients too finely can affect the texture; keep them in larger pieces.
- Forgetting to season with salt and pepper can make the salad taste bland.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
- Experiment with different types of vinegar for a unique taste.
- Chill the salad for 30 minutes before serving for enhanced freshness.
- Consider adding nuts or seeds for added texture and nutrition.
FAQs
How can I make this salad vegan?
You can easily make this cucumber tomato salad vegan by omitting the feta cheese or replacing it with a plant-based cheese alternative. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, olives, or radishes for additional crunch and flavor. The salad is very versatile.
How long does this salad last in the fridge?
This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh to maintain the crispness of the vegetables.
What can I use instead of balsamic vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a different tangy flavor profile.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this cucumber tomato salad are gluten-free, making it a safe choice for those with gluten sensitivities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cucumber tomato salad is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of freshness and flavor. Quick to prepare and full of vibrant colors, it’s a perfect addition to any meal. Enjoy this delightful salad as a refreshing side or light main dish, and savor the taste of summer in every bite.
Cucumber Tomato Salad
Ingredients
- 2 medium cucumbers sliced
- 3 ripe tomatoes sliced
- 1 small red onion thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup feta cheese crumbled
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly.
- Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds.
- Cut the tomatoes into wedges.
- Thinly slice the red onion.
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions.
- Add the fresh basil leaves to the bowl.
- Crumble the feta cheese over the salad mix.
- Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss gently to combine all ingredients and serve immediately.
