This chilled cucumber tomato salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for hot days or as a light, flavorful side for any meal. The combination of fresh vegetables, tangy dressing, and the creamy touch of feta cheese makes this salad not only delicious but also visually appealing. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
- 1/2 cup basil, roughly chopped and loosely measured
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped and loosely packed
For the Salad:
- 4 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 2 cucumbers, sliced
- 1 large red onion, sliced
- Feta cheese, crumbled (amount to taste)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl or a jar with a lid, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, sugar, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes.
- Whisk or shake vigorously to combine all the ingredients until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved.
- Stir in the chopped basil and parsley. Allow the dressing to rest for at least 10 minutes to let the flavors blend together.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large salad bowl, combine the halved tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, and sliced red onion.
- Drizzle the prepared dressing evenly over the salad ingredients. Toss gently to ensure all the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Add the Feta Cheese:
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top of the dressed salad. The amount of feta can be adjusted according to your taste preferences.
- Chill and Serve:
- Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This chilling time allows the vegetables to absorb the flavors of the dressing, enhancing the overall taste of the salad.
- Give the salad a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the dressing and cheese.
Tips:
- Serving Suggestions: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as part of a Mediterranean-themed meal. It’s also perfect for picnics and potlucks.
- Variations: For an extra crunch, add sliced bell peppers or olives. You can also substitute apple cider vinegar for red wine vinegar for a different tangy flavor.
- Herb Options: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like mint or dill if you prefer different flavors than basil and parsley.
Conclusion:
This chilled cucumber tomato salad with feta cheese is not just easy to prepare but also incredibly refreshing. The simple yet flavorful dressing enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and the crispness of the cucumbers, while the feta adds a creamy saltiness that ties all the components together beautifully. Enjoy this delightful salad as a cool addition to your summer meals or any time you need a quick and healthy side dish.