Fresh Cucumber Tomato Italian Salad

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation time: 15 minutes

• Cooking time: 0 minutes

• Chilling time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 35 minutes

• Servings: 4–6

• Difficulty: Very easy

Ingredients

For the salad:

• 2 large cucumbers, sliced

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

• ½ medium white or red onion, thinly sliced

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Italian dressing:

• ½ cup Italian salad dressing (store-bought)

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

1. Wash the cucumbers thoroughly under cold running water.

2. Cut off both ends.

3. Slice into thin rounds or half-moons.

4. If the cucumbers have thick skin, peel them partially.

5. Place the slices in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomatoes

1. Wash the cherry tomatoes.

2. Drain and pat dry.

3. Cut each tomato in half.

4. Add them to the cucumber bowl.

Step 3: Prepare the Onion

1. Peel the onion.

2. Slice it into thin strips.

3. Separate the onion layers.

4. Add to the vegetables.

5. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired.

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine:

1. Italian salad dressing.

2. Italian seasoning.

3. Garlic powder.

4. Black pepper.

5. Olive oil.

6. Fresh lemon juice.

7. Honey, if desired.

Whisk everything until well combined.

Taste and adjust the seasoning.

Step 5: Combine the Salad

1. Pour the Italian dressing over the vegetables.

2. Gently toss using two large spoons.

3. Make sure all the cucumber and tomato pieces are coated.

4. Sprinkle with a little extra black pepper.

5. Add salt only if needed.

Step 6: Chill the Salad

1. Cover the mixing bowl.

2. Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes.

3. Allow the vegetables to absorb the dressing.

4. Toss gently again before serving.

Step 7: Serve

Transfer the salad to a beautiful serving bowl.

Garnish with fresh parsley and a little Italian seasoning.

Serve chilled and enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Estimated per serving, based on 6 servings.

Nut Information (Q/S)

Allergen information: No nuts are intentionally added. Commercial Italian dressing may contain allergens depending on the brand. Always check the ingredient label and cross-contact warnings.

Helpful Tips for the Best Salad

1. Use firm, fresh cucumbers for maximum crunch.

2. Choose sweet, ripe cherry tomatoes.

3. Slice onions thinly for a milder flavor.

4. Refrigerate before serving for better taste.

5. Add dressing shortly before serving if you prefer extra-crunchy vegetables.

6. Add crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.

7. Add avocado for extra creaminess.

8. Use fresh lemon juice for a brighter flavor.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

• Best texture: Enjoy within 24 hours.

• Do not freeze: Cucumbers and tomatoes become watery after thawing.

• If preparing ahead, store dressing separately and mix just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy this refreshing salad with:

• Grilled chicken

• BBQ beef

• Grilled fish

• Garlic bread

• Roasted potatoes

• Pasta dishes

• Sandwiches and wraps

Final Result

A colorful, crunchy and refreshing cucumber tomato Italian salad with juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, sweet onions and delicious herb dressing.

Every bite is fresh, tangy, flavorful and satisfying. A simple recipe that makes the perfect side dish for any family meal!