Refreshing Cucumber Tomato Salad: A Perfect Summer Side Dish

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Cucumber Tomato Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or as a light side dish to any meal. The combination of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and fresh herbs creates a deliciously satisfying salad that is easy to prepare. The tangy dressing made with apple cider vinegar, red wine vinegar, and olive oil adds a delightful flavor that complements the freshness of the vegetables. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to create this simple yet flavorful salad.

Ingredients

For the Salad

  • 3 cups sliced cucumbers (1 ½ to 2 English cucumbers, peeled or unpeeled)
  • 3 Roma tomatoes, chopped (about 2 ½ cups chopped)
  • ½ cup thinly sliced red onion
  • ¼ cup freshly julienned or chopped basil leaves
  • 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 to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, adjust to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

  1. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference.
  2. Chop the Roma tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Thinly slice the red onion.
  4. Julienne or chop the fresh basil.
  5. Chop the fresh dill.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, chopped tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, julienned or chopped basil, and chopped dill.
  2. Gently toss the vegetables together to mix them evenly.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

  1. 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.
  2. Whisk or shake the dressing ingredients together until well combined and the sugar is dissolved.

Step 4: Dress the Salad

  1. Pour the dressing over the salad.
  2. Toss the salad gently to ensure all the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
  3. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or platter.
  2. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.

Conclusion

Cucumber Tomato Salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that captures the essence of summer with its fresh ingredients and tangy dressing. Easy to prepare and full of vibrant flavors, this salad is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it as a side dish or a light lunch, the combination of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and fresh herbs will leave you feeling satisfied and refreshed. Enjoy this simple yet flavorful salad and make it a staple in your summer recipe collection.