Refreshing Cucumber Tomato Salad: A Burst of Summer Flavors

Capture the essence of summer with this refreshing Cucumber Tomato Salad. Combining crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a tangy dressing, this salad is a delightful addition to any meal. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a light lunch, this vibrant salad celebrates the fresh, seasonal produce at its best.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

  • 3 cups sliced cucumbers (1 ½ to 2 English cucumbers, peeled or unpeeled)
  • 3 Roma tomatoes, diced (approximately 2 ½ cups)
  • ½ cup thinly sliced red onion
  • ¼ cup fresh basil, either julienned or chopped
  • 2 teaspoons chopped fresh dill

For the Dressing:

  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • ¾ cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt, or adjusted to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vegetables:
    • In a large salad bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, chopped Roma tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion. Gently toss to mix the vegetables evenly.
  2. Add Fresh Herbs:
    • Sprinkle the julienned or chopped fresh basil and chopped fresh dill over the mixed vegetables. Toss gently to distribute the herbs throughout the salad.
  3. Make the Dressing:
    • In a small bowl or a jar with a lid, combine the extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, red wine vinegar, granulated sugar, kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk or shake well until the dressing is thoroughly combined and emulsified.
  4. Dress the Salad:
    • Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure all the vegetables are coated with the dressing.
    • Taste and add more salt and pepper as necessary to suit your preference.
  5. Chill and Serve:
    • Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
    • Enjoy chilled or at room temperature for optimal flavor.

Conclusion

This Cucumber Tomato Salad is a refreshing and easy-to-make dish that captures the bright, fresh flavors of summer. The combination of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic herbs dressed in a tangy vinaigrette makes it a perfect side dish for any occasion. Enjoy this simple yet delightful salad that brings a burst of freshness to your table.

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