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Fresh Easy Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe 5-Ingredient Perfect Summer Side

fresh easy cucumber tomato salad - featured image

A quick and refreshing cucumber tomato salad with a simple tangy dressing, perfect as a light summer side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium cucumbers, peeled or unpeeled
  • 3 large ripe tomatoes, preferably heirloom or vine-ripened
  • 1/4 medium red onion, thinly sliced
  • A handful of chopped fresh basil or parsley
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse the cucumbers and tomatoes under cold water. Slice cucumbers into thin rounds about 1/4 inch thick. Cut tomatoes into bite-sized wedges or chunks roughly 1 inch pieces. Thinly slice the red onion.
  2. Place the cucumber slices, tomato pieces, and red onion in a mixing bowl. Toss gently to mix without mashing the tomatoes, about 2 minutes.
  3. Chop fresh basil or parsley finely and sprinkle over the vegetables. Stir lightly to distribute evenly.
  4. In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil and 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar. Season with a pinch of salt and a few twists of black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  5. Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture. Using wooden spoons or salad tongs, gently toss to coat everything evenly.
  6. Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes at room temperature before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

If tomatoes are very juicy, drain some liquid before mixing to avoid watery salad. Letting the salad rest for 10-15 minutes enhances flavor. Use a serrated knife for very ripe tomatoes to avoid bruising. For a twist, add minced garlic or Dijon mustard to the dressing.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber tomato salad, summer salad, easy salad, fresh salad, 5-ingredient salad, healthy side dish