The delightful combination of tomato cucumber and onion salad bursts with vibrant colors and tantalizing flavors. Imagine the crispness of fresh cucumbers, the juiciness of ripe tomatoes, and the sharp bite of onions mingling together in perfect harmony. This salad is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of freshness that dances on your taste buds.
I remember the first time I made this salad for a summer barbecue. Friends gathered around, intrigued by the bright colors in my bowl. As everyone took their first bite, laughter filled the air, proving that sometimes, the simplest dishes create the best memories. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a quiet meal at home, this salad is an ideal companion that promises to elevate any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This simple tomato cucumber and onion salad is quick to prepare and bursting with flavor
- It’s visually stunning with its vibrant colors, making it perfect for any gathering
- Enjoy it as a side dish or light main course; it’s versatile enough for any meal
A friend once told me this salad was her go-to dish for impressing guests at dinner parties, and I can see why—everyone loves it!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ripe Tomatoes: Choose juicy tomatoes for the best flavor; they should feel slightly soft when squeezed.
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Cucumbers: Pick firm cucumbers without blemishes; English cucumbers are great for their mild taste.
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Red Onion: Use red onion for its sweetness; soak it in cold water to mellow its sharpness.
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Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavors beautifully; don’t skimp on this.
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Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the salad; avoid bottled options for best results.
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Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning brings out all the natural flavors of the ingredients.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by washing all your vegetables thoroughly under cold water. Dice your tomatoes into bite-sized pieces, slice your cucumbers thinly, and chop your red onion finely to ensure a balanced taste.
Toss Everything Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine your diced tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, and chopped red onion. Gently toss to distribute evenly while taking care not to mash anything.
Add Olive Oil and Lemon Juice: Drizzle olive oil over the mixture and squeeze fresh lemon juice directly into the bowl. The aroma will be zesty and invigorating as you mix it all together.
Season with Salt and Pepper: Sprinkle salt and pepper generously over your salad mixture. Give everything another gentle toss until every ingredient is coated in that flavorful goodness.
Chill Before Serving: For best flavor development, let your salad sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows those delicious flavors to meld together beautifully.
Now you’ve crafted an irresistible tomato cucumber and onion salad that not only looks gorgeous but also tastes divine! Enjoy every refreshing bite as you share this delightful dish with family or friends!
You Must Know
- This fresh tomato cucumber and onion salad is a delight that brings summer to your plate
- Its vibrant colors and crunchy textures make it an eye-catching side dish, while the zesty dressing elevates every bite into a flavor fiesta
- Perfect for barbecues or as a refreshing snack!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by chopping the vegetables uniformly to ensure even flavor distribution. Mix everything well and let it marinate briefly for maximum taste.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding feta cheese or olives for a Mediterranean twist. You can also swap out vinegar for lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Avoid reheating; it’s best served cold.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor; they make all the difference
- Chop onions finely to avoid overpowering tastes in your salad
- Letting it sit enhances the flavors, so be patient and enjoy the wait
It’s funny how this simple tomato cucumber and onion salad became my go-to dish at family gatherings. Everyone loves it, and I get asked for the recipe every time!
FAQ
What can I add to my tomato cucumber and onion salad?
You can add herbs, cheese, or even nuts for extra texture.
How long can I store this salad?
This salad stays fresh in the fridge for up to three days.
Can I use other vegetables in this salad?
Absolutely! Bell peppers or radishes would also work wonderfully here.
Tomato Cucumber and Onion Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
This vibrant Tomato Cucumber and Onion Salad is a refreshing blend of crisp vegetables, perfect for summer gatherings or as a light meal. Bursting with flavor and color, this salad is easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests. With juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and sweet red onions, it’s a delightful dish that adds freshness to any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 medium ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped (soaked in cold water)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients: Wash and chop the tomatoes, cucumber, and onion.
- In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, sliced cucumber, and chopped onion. Gently toss to mix.
- Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad. Toss again to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix gently until all ingredients are coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
