Cucumber, Tomato and Onion Salad: A Fresh and Flavorful Delight
Cucumber, Tomato and Onion Salad is a classic summer favorite that’s both refreshing and packed with flavor. This simple yet versatile dish is a crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful balance of crisp vegetables, tangy dressing, and a touch of sweetness. Whether you’re serving it as a side for a barbecue or enjoying it as a light and healthy main course, this salad is sure to impress.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓
This Cucumber, Tomato and Onion Salad is a true delight for the senses. The combination of crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and sharp onions creates a textural contrast that is both satisfying and refreshing. The tangy dressing, made with a blend of vinegar, oil, and seasonings, complements the fresh vegetables perfectly, elevating the overall flavor profile.
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. It can be served as a side dish, a light main course, or even as part of a larger spread. The make-ahead nature of the salad also makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or summer gatherings, as you can prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld together.
🛒 What You Need to Prepare Cucumber, Tomato and Onion Salad ❓
• 4 large tomatoes, diced
• 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
The beauty of this Cucumber, Tomato and Onion Salad is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and sharp onions creates the Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile that has made salad recipes perennially popular.
📝 How to Make Cucumber, Tomato and Onion Salad Step-by-Step ❓
• Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the white vinegar, olive oil, granulated sugar, salt, and black pepper until the sugar has dissolved.
• Step 3: Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
• Step 4: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, to allow the flavors to meld together.
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Chilling time: 30 minutes to 2 hours
• Total time: 45 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes
Compared to traditional Mediterranean salads which can take up to 30 minutes to prepare, this Cucumber, Tomato and Onion Salad saves you 50% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.
👩🏻⚕️ Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 6 servings):
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 5g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 442mg
These Cucumber, Tomato and Onion Salad provide approximately 15% of your daily vitamin C requirements and 10% of your daily vitamin K needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.
🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
• Lower-carb version: Omit the sugar in the dressing or use a sugar substitute.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Use a plant-based oil, such as avocado or grapeseed oil, instead of olive oil.
• Added protein: Top the salad with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for an extra protein boost.
• Boost vegetables: Add diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or chopped fresh herbs for more nutrient-dense ingredients.
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the Cucumber, Tomato and Onion Salad.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair the salad with crusty bread or pita for a light and refreshing lunch or dinner.
• Complement the salad with a bowl of lentil or minestrone soup for a complete and satisfying meal.
• For a Mediterranean-inspired feast, serve the salad alongside grilled kebabs, hummus, and a selection of olives and feta cheese.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Not allowing enough chilling time: The salad needs at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator for the flavors to meld together properly.
• Using too much dressing: Start with a smaller amount of dressing and gradually add more to avoid the salad becoming overly wet and soggy.
🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe
These Cucumber, Tomato and Onion Salad retain their quality remarkably well:
• Freezing: Unfortunately, this salad does not freeze well due to the high water content of the vegetables. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of preparation.
❓ FAQs
How far in advance can I make this salad?
You can prepare the Cucumber, Tomato and Onion Salad up to 2 hours in advance and refrigerate it until ready to serve. The flavors will have time to meld together, and the vegetables will retain their crisp texture.
Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Yes, you can substitute the white vinegar with other types of vinegar, such as red wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or balsamic vinegar. Each type will impart a slightly different flavor profile to the salad.
Is this salad suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, with a few simple modifications, this Cucumber, Tomato and Onion Salad can be adapted for a low-carb diet. Omit the sugar in the dressing and use a sugar substitute instead. You can also increase the proportion of cucumbers and reduce the amount of tomatoes to lower the overall carbohydrate content.
What if I don’t like raw onions?
If you’re not a fan of raw onions, you can try sautéing the sliced onions briefly in a bit of olive oil to mellow the flavor before adding them to the salad. Alternatively, you can use a milder onion variety, such as shallots or green onions, instead.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! This Cucumber, Tomato and Onion Salad is highly versatile and can accommodate a variety of additional vegetables. Consider adding diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or chopped fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or dill to enhance the flavor and visual appeal.
🎉 Final Thoughts
These Cucumber, Tomato and Onion Salad represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a refreshing side dish for a summer barbecue or enjoying them as a light and healthy main course, they’re sure to impress with their crisp texture and vibrant flavors. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these Cucumber, Tomato and Onion Salad demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality produce and a little bit of care in the assembly. So why not give this delightful salad a try and experience the refreshing delight of summer in every bite?
