Fresh Vegetable Salad with Cucumber and Tomato

Fresh Vegetable Salad with Cucumber and Tomato

This simple yet delicious fresh vegetable salad is the perfect side dish for any meal. Combining crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette, it comes together in just minutes and makes a refreshing addition to your dinner table. The beauty of this salad lies in its simplicity and the quality of the fresh ingredients you use.

Ingredients

• 2 large cucumbers
• 3 medium tomatoes
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh parsley or mint, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Wash the cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly under cold water.
2. Cut the cucumbers in half lengthwise, then slice into half-moons about 1/4 inch thick.
3. Cut the tomatoes into quarters or chunks, removing excess seeds if desired.
4. Place cucumbers and tomatoes in a large bowl.
5. Add the sliced red onion to the bowl.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar.
7. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
8. Toss gently to combine, about 1 minute.
9. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
10. Top with fresh herbs if using and serve immediately.

Practical Tips

Use the freshest vegetables available: The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the final result. Choose firm cucumbers and ripe, fragrant tomatoes from a farmers market if possible for the best flavor.

Serve the salad chilled: For optimal crunch and refreshment, refrigerate your vegetables before preparing the salad. You can also chill the finished salad for 15 minutes before serving.

Adjust the dressing to taste: If you prefer a tangier salad, add more vinegar. For a richer flavor, increase the olive oil slightly. Everyone has different preferences, so taste and adjust accordingly.

How to Store

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The vegetables will soften slightly and release more liquid over time, so it’s ideal to consume it within a few hours of preparation. Keep the dressing separate if you plan to store it longer.

Common Questions

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time? You can chop the vegetables several hours in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. Add the dressing just before serving to maintain the crispness of the vegetables and prevent them from becoming soggy.

What other vegetables can I add to this salad? This recipe is very versatile. You can add bell peppers, radishes, carrots, or celery for extra crunch and flavor. Feta cheese or olives also make excellent additions if you want to enhance the taste.

Is there a substitute for red wine vinegar? Yes, you can use white wine vinegar, balsamic vinegar, or lemon juice as alternatives. Each will give the salad a slightly different flavor profile, so choose based on your preference.