Fresh Cucumber, Tomato & Red Onion Salad

Preparation Details

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 0 minutes

• Total time: 15 minutes

• Servings: 4–6

• Difficulty: Very easy

• Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 3 large ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges

• 2 medium English cucumbers, sliced into half-moons

• 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced

• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (optional)

• 1 small garlic clove, minced

For the Homemade Dressing

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ teaspoon dried Italian herbs

• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• ¾ teaspoon salt, or to taste

• ½ teaspoon honey or sugar (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Wash the tomatoes and cucumbers thoroughly under cold running water.

2. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.

3. Cut tomatoes into medium-sized wedges.

4. Slice cucumbers into thick half-moon pieces.

5. Peel the red onion and slice it into thin rings.

6. Finely chop fresh parsley and cilantro.

7. Mince the garlic.

Step 2: Prepare the Red Onion

1. Place sliced red onions in a small bowl.

2. Add cold water.

3. Let them soak for 5–10 minutes.

4. Drain and pat dry.

This helps reduce the sharp onion flavor while keeping the onions crisp.

Step 3: Make the Salad Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, combine:

1. Extra virgin olive oil.

2. Fresh lemon juice.

3. Red wine vinegar.

4. Dijon mustard.

5. Minced garlic.

6. Dried oregano.

7. Italian herbs.

8. Black pepper.

9. Salt.

10. Honey, if desired.

Whisk everything together until well combined and slightly emulsified.

Taste and adjust the lemon juice, salt, and pepper according to your preference.

Step 4: Combine the Vegetables

1. Take a large salad bowl.

2. Add the sliced cucumbers.

3. Add the tomato wedges.

4. Add the red onion slices.

5. Sprinkle chopped parsley and cilantro over the vegetables.

6. Toss gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.

Step 5: Add the Dressing

1. Pour the prepared dressing over the vegetables.

2. Use two large spoons to toss everything gently.

3. Make sure the dressing coats all the vegetables.

4. Avoid mixing too aggressively because the tomatoes can become mushy.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate the salad for 10–15 minutes if desired.

2. Give it one final gentle toss.

3. Taste and adjust seasoning.

4. Transfer to a beautiful serving bowl.

5. Garnish with fresh parsley and freshly cracked black pepper.

Serve immediately for the best crunch and freshness!

Helpful Cooking Tips

• Choose firm, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.

• English cucumbers have fewer seeds and a crisp texture.

• Slice onions thinly for a balanced flavor.

• Use freshly squeezed lemon juice.

• Add dressing just before serving to prevent watery vegetables.

• For extra flavor, add crumbled feta cheese.

• Refrigerate leftover salad promptly.

Variations

1. Mediterranean Salad: Add feta cheese, olives, and oregano.

2. Avocado Salad: Add one diced ripe avocado.

3. Protein-Rich Salad: Add boiled eggs, grilled chicken, or chickpeas.

4. Spicy Salad: Add finely chopped green chilies and a pinch of chili flakes.

5. Crunchy Salad: Add toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

Nutritional Information

Estimated per serving, based on 6 servings.

Nut Information (Q/S)

Nut information: This recipe contains no intentionally added tree nuts or peanuts. Optional sunflower or pumpkin seeds are seeds, not tree nuts.

Allergen note: Dijon mustard may contain mustard allergens. Check packaged ingredients for cross-contact warnings if cooking for someone with allergies.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1–2 days.

• Best freshness: Keep dressing separate until serving.

• Freezing: Not recommended because cucumbers and tomatoes lose their texture.

• Serving: Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy this refreshing salad alongside:

• Grilled chicken.

• Roasted beef or steak.

• Baked fish.

• Garlic bread.

• Rice dishes.

• Grilled vegetables.

• Homemade sandwiches.

Final Result: A beautiful, crunchy, juicy cucumber and tomato salad with crisp red onions, fresh herbs, and a zesty homemade dressing. Simple ingredients, incredible flavor, and perfect for everyday healthy eating!