Tomato Cucumber Salad with Herbed Vinaigrette Recipe
Introduction
This Tomato Cucumber Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish perfect for warm weather or as a light side. Crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes are tossed with a zesty vinaigrette and fresh herbs, creating a simple yet flavorful salad that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 5 large tomatoes, quartered (tomatoes on the vine are best)
- 1 English cucumber, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 large red onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 pinch kosher salt
- 1 pinch black pepper
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 pinch freshly ground black pepper
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon honey or brown sugar (optional for low-carb, Keto, or sugar-free diets)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and cilantro. Sprinkle with a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper, then toss gently to mix.
- Step 2: In a small bowl or mason jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and honey or brown sugar if using, until well blended.
- Step 3: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Step 4: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the salad sit at room temperature for 1 to 3 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
- Step 5: Serve the salad fresh and enjoy its bright, refreshing taste.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, add chopped bell peppers or radishes to the salad.
- Use fresh oregano instead of dried for a more aromatic flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
- Serve the salad chilled for a cool, refreshing side dish during hot days.
Storage
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The vegetables may release some water over time, so stir the salad before serving. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within the first day for optimal texture. Reheat is not recommended for this salad.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad up to 3 hours ahead and let it sit at room temperature to allow the flavors to blend. For longer storage, refrigerate and consume within 2 days.
What can I substitute for red wine vinegar?
If you don’t have red wine vinegar, you can use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar as alternatives. They will provide a similar tangy flavor to the dressing.
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Tomato Cucumber Salad with Herbed Vinaigrette Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (includes resting time)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A refreshing and vibrant Tomato Cucumber Salad featuring ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumber, and a zesty homemade vinaigrette. This easy-to-make salad combines fresh herbs and a tangy dressing, perfect as a light side dish or a healthy snack.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 5 large tomatoes (tomatoes on the vine are best), quartered
- 1 English cucumber, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 large red onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 pinch kosher salt
- 1 pinch black pepper
Vinaigrette Dressing Ingredients
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 pinch freshly ground black pepper
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon honey or brown sugar (optional for low-carb, Keto, or sugar-free diets)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the quartered tomatoes, peeled and sliced cucumber, sliced red onion, chopped parsley, and chopped cilantro. Sprinkle with a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper, then toss gently to evenly distribute the seasoning.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or mason jar, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and honey or brown sugar if using. Whisk vigorously or shake the jar until the dressing is thoroughly blended and emulsified.
- Toss Salad with Dressing: Pour the prepared vinaigrette over the vegetable mixture in the large bowl. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly with the dressing.
- Marinate and Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the salad sit at room temperature for 1 to 3 hours. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Serve the tomato cucumber salad fresh and enjoy!
Notes
- For best flavor, use ripe tomatoes and fresh herbs.
- You can omit the honey or brown sugar to keep it low carb or sugar-free.
- Letting the salad sit allows vegetables to absorb the vinaigrette, enhancing taste.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature depending on preference.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: Tomato Cucumber Salad, Fresh Salad, Mediterranean Salad, Healthy Side Dish, Vinaigrette Dressing, Summer Salad
