Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad Recipe

This Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad is a light, refreshing, and easy-to-make side dish that’s perfect for warm weather. With crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy onions tossed in a simple vinaigrette, this salad is a classic favorite that pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or even as a stand-alone dish. It’s healthy, vibrant, and full of flavor!

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Why You’ll Love This Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad Recipe

• Light & Refreshing: This salad is perfect for a light side dish, especially during summer, when fresh vegetables are in season.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with just a few fresh ingredients and a simple dressing, it’s easy to put together.
• Healthy & Nutritious: Loaded with fresh veggies, this salad is full of vitamins, fiber, and hydration, making it a healthy option.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pairs well with almost any meal, from grilled meats to sandwiches and pasta dishes.

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Key Ingredients for Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad

1. Cucumber

• Crisp and refreshing cucumbers add a hydrating crunch to the salad. Use English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers for a slightly sweeter, less bitter flavor.

2. Tomatoes

• Juicy, ripe tomatoes bring a burst of sweetness and acidity. You can use any variety, like cherry tomatoes or Roma tomatoes, depending on what you have on hand.

3. Red Onion

• Thinly sliced red onions add a mild, tangy bite to the salad, balancing the sweetness of the tomatoes and cucumbers.

4. Vinaigrette

• A simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, and herbs adds a tangy, light dressing that ties the salad together.

5. Fresh Herbs (Optional)

• Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or dill can be added to give the salad a burst of herbaceous flavor.

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How to Make Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad

This salad is incredibly easy to prepare and comes together in just a few simple steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

• Wash and slice 1 large cucumber, 2-3 ripe tomatoes, and 1/2 a red onion. Slice the cucumber into thin rounds or half-moons, cut the tomatoes into wedges or bite-sized pieces, and slice the onion into thin rings.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

• In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano (or fresh herbs like parsley or dill).

Step 3: Toss the Salad

• In a large bowl, combine the cucumber, tomatoes, and onion. Pour the vinaigrette over the vegetables and toss to coat everything evenly.

Step 4: Chill & Serve

• For best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold and enjoy!

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Tips for Making the Best Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad

1. Use Fresh, Ripe Vegetables

• The quality of the vegetables makes a big difference in the flavor of the salad. Look for fresh, ripe tomatoes and crisp cucumbers for the best results.

2. Let It Marinate

• Allowing the salad to sit for 30 minutes in the fridge helps the vegetables absorb the flavors of the vinaigrette, making the salad even tastier.

3. Adjust the Dressing

• Feel free to adjust the vinaigrette to your taste. Add more vinegar for tang, or a pinch of sugar if you prefer a sweeter dressing.

4. Customize with Herbs

• Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or basil add a fresh, vibrant flavor to the salad. You can mix and match herbs to suit your preferences.

5. Add Cheese

• For extra flavor, sprinkle some crumbled feta or fresh mozzarella into the salad for a Mediterranean twist.

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Recipe Variations

1. Greek-Style Cucumber Tomato Salad

• Add kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese for a Greek-inspired version of this salad.

2. Avocado Cucumber Tomato Salad

• Dice 1 avocado and add it to the salad for added creaminess and healthy fats.

3. Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad

• Replace the vinaigrette with a creamy dressing made of Greek yogurt or sour cream, lemon juice, and herbs.

4. Spicy Cucumber Tomato Salad

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the salad for a little heat.

5. Italian Cucumber Tomato Salad

• Use balsamic vinegar and fresh basil for an Italian twist on the classic.

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FAQs: Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad

1. Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?

• Yes! This salad is great for meal prep. You can make it a few hours in advance and refrigerate it. Just toss it again before serving.

2. What’s the Best Type of Cucumber to Use?

• English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers are ideal for this salad because they have thinner skins and fewer seeds, making them perfect for salads.

3. Can I Use Different Types of Onions?

• Yes, you can use sweet onions or white onions if you prefer a milder flavor. Red onions are traditionally used for their color and sharpness.

4. How Do I Store Leftovers?

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The vegetables will soften slightly as they sit, but the flavors will continue to develop.

5. What Can I Serve with This Salad?

• This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, burgers, or any main dish. It also works as a light lunch on its own.

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