This refreshing tomato cucumber salad is perfect for sunny days. With juicy tomatoes and crisp cucumbers, it’s a colorful treat on your plate!
Honestly, it requires no cooking, so what’s not to love? Just mix, toss, and enjoy! I like to drizzle some olive oil and sprinkle a bit of salt for extra flavor. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tomatoes: Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor. I love vine-ripened or heirloom tomatoes, but any variety works. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, canned diced tomatoes can be a good alternative for a different texture.
Cucumbers: English cucumbers are great because they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin. If you have regular cucumbers, just peel them if the skin is tough. For a twist, try adding radishes for a peppery crunch or even zucchini.
Red Onion: This adds a sweet bite to the salad. If red onion is too strong for you, use green onions or shallots instead. Soaking the onion in water for a few minutes can also mellow its flavor.
Parsley: Fresh parsley gives a nice touch. If you’re out, cilantro or basil can be wonderful substitutes. I enjoy using a mix of fresh herbs for extra flavor!
Olive Oil & Vinegar: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for its rich flavor. For more zing, replace red wine vinegar with lemon juice or balsamic vinegar. Just adjust the amount to suit your taste.
How Do I Make the Flavors Shine in My Salad?
Letting your salad sit for about 10 minutes is key! This resting time allows the veggies to soak up the dressing and mingles the flavors. Here’s how to make the most of it:
- Combine all the veggies first, tossing them gently to avoid bruising.
- Drizzle in the olive oil and vinegar, then sprinkle salt and pepper. The salt helps draw out moisture and flavors.
- Toss everything lightly and let it rest before serving. This step makes a big difference in taste!
How to Make Easy Tomato Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 medium ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 2 medium cucumbers, 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
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick to chop your veggies and mix everything together. Plus, letting it sit for about 10 minutes will enhance the flavor, making it even tastier!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Veggies:
Start by getting a large bowl. In it, add the chopped tomatoes and sliced cucumbers. These are the stars of your salad!
2. Add More Flavor:
Next, toss in the thinly sliced red onion and the chopped parsley. This will add color and freshness to your salad.
3. Mix in the Dressing:
Now, drizzle the olive oil and red wine vinegar (or lemon juice) over the top of the veggies. This is what brings all the flavors together!
4. Season and Toss:
Sprinkle the salad with salt, pepper, and the optional dried oregano. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well combined. Make sure the dressing covers all the veggies!
5. Let It Rest:
Allow the salad to sit for about 10 minutes. This resting time lets the flavors mingle and makes it even better. You can serve it right away or refrigerate it for later. Enjoy your refreshing Tomato Cucumber Salad!
Can I Use Different Types of Onion in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use sweet onions like Vidalia or even green onions. Just remember that the taste will change slightly, so choose based on your preference!
What Can I Substitute for Red Wine Vinegar?
If you don’t have red wine vinegar, lemon juice or apple cider vinegar makes for a great substitute. The acidity will still brighten the salad. Just adjust the quantity to taste, as lemon juice may be a bit more tart!
How to Store Leftover Salad?
To store leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. However, the vegetables may release water, so it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, radishes, or even avocado for extra flavor and texture. Just make sure to chop them into similar-sized pieces for a nice, even mix!
