A Cucumber Tomato & Onion Salad Is Simple And Tasty
We all have our signature dishes, and this one belongs to one of my sisters. In truth, she’s a master chef, a true artist in the kitchen. Back in the day, she even had her own little health food restaurant where people would line up just to claim a spot at one of her tables. Her dishes were always fresh, vibrant, and full of life, but this Cucumber Tomato & Onion Salad was something special. When she picks the herbs fresh from her garden and creates this salad, there’s not a drop of oil and vinegar left in the bowl—every bit is sopped up with bread. It’s a simple dish, but the way she balances the flavors, the freshness of the vegetables, and the bright acidity of the dressing, it becomes something extraordinary. It’s a salad that’s more than the sum of its parts, and it’s one of those dishes that you just can’t help but love.
Did You Know?
Cucumber Tomato & Onion Salad is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, known for its light and healthy ingredients. This salad is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making it both nutritious and tasty. Fun fact: Cucumbers are 95% water, making them an excellent hydrating food!
Yield: Serves 8
Ingredients:
- 4 large tomatoes, sliced
- 1 large sweet onion, thinly sliced
- 3 large cucumbers (8-10 inches each), thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Layer Vegetables:
In a large glass serving bowl, layer the sliced tomatoes, followed by a layer of sliced onions, and then a layer of sliced cucumbers. Repeat until all vegetables are used.
Personal Tip: If you have extra time, let the sliced onions sit in a little cold water for 10 minutes before adding them to the salad. This helps to mellow out their sharpness, making the salad even more enjoyable.
Make Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and black pepper.
Personal Tip: For a slightly sweeter dressing, add a teaspoon of sugar or honey to balance the acidity of the vinegar. This can be especially nice if your tomatoes are on the tart side.
Combine:
Drizzle the dressing evenly over the layered salad.
Personal Tip: To ensure even distribution, pour the dressing slowly and move the bowl around as you drizzle. This helps to coat every layer of vegetables with that delicious tangy flavor.
Garnish:
Sprinkle with fresh parsley, thyme, and dill, if using.
Personal Tip: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a handful of crumbled feta cheese or a few sliced Kalamata olives for a Mediterranean twist that pairs beautifully with the herbs.
Marinate:
Let the salad sit at room temperature for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Personal Tip: If you have the time, cover the salad and refrigerate it for a few hours or overnight. The flavors deepen, and the vegetables become wonderfully infused with the dressing.
Serve:
Serve at room temperature.
Personal Tip: Just before serving, give the salad a gentle toss to redistribute the dressing that may have settled at the bottom. Serve with crusty bread to soak up the extra dressing.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 80, Protein: 1g, Carbohydrates: 6g, Fiber: 2g, Net Carbohydrates: 4g, Fat: 6g, Saturated Fat: 1g, Cholesterol: 0mg, Sodium: 300mg, Sugars: 3g, Glycemic Index: Low
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
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Choosing Vegetables: Use ripe tomatoes and firm cucumbers for the best flavor and texture. English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers work well for their thin skin and fewer seeds.
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Herb Variations: Customize the salad with your favorite herbs. Basil, cilantro, or mint can also add a fresh twist.
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Dressing Alternatives: Substitute the red wine vinegar with balsamic vinegar or lemon juice for a different flavor profile.
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Adding Protein: For a more substantial salad, add crumbled feta cheese, sliced olives, or grilled chicken.
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Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad may become more flavorful as it sits.
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Serving Suggestions: Serve this salad as a side dish with grilled meats, fish, or as part of a Mediterranean mezze platter.
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Reducing Sodium: Reduce the amount of salt in the dressing or use a salt substitute to lower the sodium content.
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Flavor Enhancements: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a bit of heat. A clove of minced garlic can also enhance the flavor.
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Cost-Saving Tips: Buy vegetables in bulk when they are in season and on sale. Using store-brand olive oil and vinegar can also help reduce costs without sacrificing quality.
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Presentation: For a beautiful presentation, use a clear glass bowl to showcase the vibrant layers of vegetables.
These 3 Varieties of Tomatoes Are Flavorful And Perfect In This Type of Salad
When it comes to making a delicious Cucumber Tomato & Onion Salad, the type of tomatoes you use can significantly impact the flavor and texture of the dish. Here are three excellent varieties that stand out although you can use any kind.
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Early Girl Tomatoes: Early Girl tomatoes are known for their robust flavor and juicy texture. They’re a great all-purpose tomato, perfect for slicing into salads. Their slightly sweet taste and firm flesh hold up well against the crisp cucumbers and onions in this salad, making each bite delightful.
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Beefsteak Tomatoes: If you’re looking for big, meaty slices of tomato, Beefsteak tomatoes are the way to go. Their large size and rich, slightly acidic flavor make them a perfect centerpiece in this salad. The thick slices soak up the tangy dressing beautifully, adding a satisfying heft to each forkful.
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Heirloom Tomatoes: Heirloom tomatoes bring a burst of color and a range of flavors to your salad. Their unique, often sweet and tangy taste, combined with their vibrant hues, make them a visually appealing and flavorful addition. Each variety of heirloom has its own distinct flavor profile, ensuring every bite of your salad is interesting and delicious.
These tomato varieties not only add rich flavor and texture to your Cucumber Tomato & Onion Salad but also enhance the visual appeal of the dish. Whether you prefer the classic taste of Early Girls, the hearty bite of Beefsteaks, or the vibrant uniqueness of Heirlooms, these tomatoes will make your salad truly stand out.