This fresh tomato cucumber salad is super simple and burstin’ with flavor! Just chop up some ripe tomatoes and crunchy cucumbers, mix in a splash of olive oil, and you’re ready to go!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes give this salad its juicy base. If they’re out of season, you can use canned diced tomatoes or cherry tomatoes for a sweet alternative.
Cucumbers: English cucumbers work best as they have fewer seeds and a thicker skin. If you can’t find them, try Persian or even regular cucumbers, just make sure to peel them if the skin is tough.
Red Onion: This onion adds a nice sharpness. If red onion feels too intense, you can substitute with sweet onions (like Vidalia) or even green onions for a milder taste.
Fresh Parsley: Parsley adds great freshness. If you don’t have it, try fresh basil or cilantro for a different twist. Dried herbs, while not ideal, can be used in a pinch (just halve the amount).
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its rich flavor. If you’re out, avocado oil or any light oil will work, but avoid using oil blends with too many additives.
Red Wine Vinegar: This vinegar gives a tangy kick. If you lack it, balsamic or apple cider vinegar can substitute nicely, each offering a unique taste.
How Do I Make Sure All Ingredients Are Well Mixed?
The key to a well-mixed salad is gentle tossing to avoid bruising the vegetables. After combining everything in a bowl, use two large spoons or salad tongs and lift the ingredients from the bottom to the top.
- Start with the heavier items (like tomatoes) and let them sit on the top.
- Drizzle the dressing slowly over the salad for even distribution.
- After tossing, let it sit for a few minutes; this lets flavors blend beautifully while keeping veggies crisp.
How to Make Easy Tomato Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large tomatoes, diced
- 2 cucumbers, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This quick and refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend the first few minutes chopping your veggies and whisking up the dressing, and then just let the salad sit for a bit to let the flavors come together. It’s perfect for a simple side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Fresh Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the diced tomatoes and sliced cucumbers. These will be the main ingredients that give your salad a fresh and juicy base. Next, sprinkle in the thinly sliced red onion and chopped parsley. Persian or curly parsley works well here, so choose your favorite!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This dressing will add a burst of flavor to your salad. You can adjust the amount of salt and pepper to match your taste as you try the mixture.
3. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Using a gentle folding motion, toss everything together. You want to make sure that all the veggies are nicely coated with that delicious dressing without squishing them too much!
4. Let It Rest Before Serving:
Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes before serving. This gives the flavors time to blend and makes it even tastier. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for a delightful, healthy dish. Enjoy your refreshing salad!
Can I Use Other Types of Vinegar?
Absolutely! If you don’t have red wine vinegar, you can substitute it with white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. Each type will offer a slightly different flavor, so feel free to choose what you have on hand!
How Long Can I Store This Salad?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the cucumbers may become watery, so it’s a good idea to drain any excess liquid before serving again.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! You can customize your salad by adding vegetables like bell peppers, radishes, or even avocado. Just ensure that any additional ingredients complement the flavors of the existing ones!
Is There a Way to Make It More Filling?
If you’d like to make this salad more substantial, consider adding protein such as chickpeas, grilled chicken, or feta cheese. These additions will enhance the flavor while making it more filling!
