This Refreshing Tomato and Cucumber Salad is a celebration of simplicity, bringing together the crisp, fresh flavors of garden vegetables with a light, sweet and tangy dressing. It’s the perfect side dish for any meal, especially during the warmer months when you crave something cool and refreshing. This salad is incredibly easy to prepare and offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors that can complement a wide range of main dishes. Let’s prepare this vibrant salad that promises to be as nourishing as it is delicious.
Ingredients:
- Tomatoes, 4 medium, diced or sliced according to preference, for a juicy, vibrant base
- Cucumbers, 2 medium, peeled and sliced, adding a crisp, refreshing crunch
- Onions, 2, sliced and separated into rings, for a slight bite and complexity
- Vinegar, 2 tablespoons, to bring acidity and brightness
- Olive Oil, ¼ cup, lending richness and smoothness to the dressing
- Sugar, 2 tablespoons, to balance the acidity with a hint of sweetness
- Salt, 1 teaspoon, to enhance all the flavors
- Black Pepper, ½ teaspoon, for a subtle spice kick
- Fresh Parsley, 2 teaspoons minced, for a fresh, herbal finish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables: Start by dicing or slicing the tomatoes into your preferred size and shape. Peel the cucumbers and slice them thinly. Slice the onions and separate them into rings.
- Combine the Vegetables: In a large salad bowl, combine the sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and onion rings. Toss them gently to ensure they’re evenly mixed.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Whisk or shake until the ingredients are well blended and the sugar has dissolved. This creates a light yet flavorful dressing that perfectly complements the salad.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure all the vegetables are coated evenly.
- Garnish and Chill: Sprinkle the minced fresh parsley over the salad for a burst of color and freshness. For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Serve: Serve the salad chilled, as a refreshing side to your favorite dishes. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fish, or a simple sandwich, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
This Tomato and Cucumber Salad is not just a dish but a testament to the beauty of fresh, simple ingredients coming together to create something delicious. It’s a healthy, light option that’s as easy to make as it is enjoyable to eat, perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a quiet dinner at home. Enjoy the crisp, refreshing flavors that make this salad a go-to choice for any occasion.