A fresh and vibrant dish, Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad… Simple and Good is perfect for any occasion. This salad bursts with flavors from juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and crunchy onions. It’s not only easy to prepare but also a delightful addition to summer gatherings or a refreshing light lunch. Enjoy the tangy dressing that ties it all together, making it a standout side dish for barbecues, picnics, or simply as a healthy snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This salad takes just 10 minutes to make, allowing you to whip it up in no time.
- Fresh Ingredients: The combination of fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions provides a burst of flavor in every bite.
- Versatile Side Dish: Perfect alongside grilled meats or as a standalone light meal; it suits various dietary preferences.
- Healthy Choice: Low in calories and packed with vitamins, this salad is great for anyone looking to eat healthily.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or swap ingredients based on what you have on hand.
Tools and Preparation
Preparing this salad requires minimal equipment. Having the right tools will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Whisk or jar for dressing
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining ingredients without spilling.
- Whisk or jar: Ensures that your dressing blends well and evenly coats the salad ingredients.
Ingredients
A fresh and flavorful salad that combines juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and crunchy onions, all dressed in a tangy vinegar-based dressing. Perfect as a side dish for any meal or a refreshing light lunch.
Fresh Produce
- 3 tomatoes, diced
- 3 cucumbers, peeled and sliced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
Dressing Ingredients
- ½ cup vinegar (white or apple cider vinegar works well)
- 1 teaspoon cracked pepper
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 cup water
- ¼ cup olive oil
How to Make Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad… Simple and Good
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, and thinly sliced onion. Toss gently to mix them evenly.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a separate bowl or jar:
1. Whisk together the vinegar, cracked pepper, sugar, salt, water, and olive oil.
2. Ensure the sugar and salt are completely dissolved before proceeding.
Step 3: Combine Salad with Dressing
Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture. Toss gently to ensure all vegetables are well-coated with the dressing.
Step 4: Chill Before Serving
Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Serve
Enjoy your chilled Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad… Simple and Good either cold or at room temperature!
How to Serve Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad… Simple and Good
This Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad is versatile and can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet meal at home, these serving suggestions will complement your dish beautifully.
As a Side Dish
- Pair it with grilled meats for a refreshing contrast.
- Serve alongside fish tacos for a zesty touch.
In a Wrap
- Use it as a filling in wraps for added crunch.
- Combine with grilled chicken or falafel for a hearty meal.
On Toast
- Top whole-grain bread with the salad for a light lunch.
- Add avocado slices for extra creaminess.
With Cheese
- Serve it alongside feta or mozzarella cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
- Drizzle with balsamic reduction for added flavor.
As a Snack
- Enjoy it on its own as a healthy snack option.
- Pack it in lunchboxes for an afternoon pick-me-up.
How to Perfect Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad… Simple and Good
To elevate your Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad, follow these simple tips that enhance both flavor and presentation.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh produce makes all the difference in taste. Choose ripe tomatoes and crisp cucumbers.
- Let it chill: Allow the salad to sit in the fridge for at least 20 minutes. This helps flavors meld together beautifully.
- Experiment with herbs: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an aromatic touch that enhances the salad’s freshness.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving; you might want more salt or pepper based on your preference.
Best Side Dishes for Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad… Simple and Good
Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad pairs well with many dishes. Here are some great side options to consider:
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken complements the lightness of the salad perfectly.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds sweetness that balances the tangy flavors of the salad.
- Pasta Salad: A creamy pasta salad serves as a hearty addition to the meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables provide depth and texture alongside this refreshing dish.
- Quinoa Bowl: A quinoa bowl topped with herbs makes for a nutritious and filling side.
- Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes offer comfort that pairs well with fresh salads.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad… Simple and Good can be easy, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final dish.
- Skipping the chilling time: Allowing the salad to chill for 15-20 minutes enhances the flavors. Don’t rush this step!
- Using unripe tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes add the best flavor and juiciness. Always choose fresh, ripe ones for your salad.
- Overdressing the salad: Too much dressing can make it soggy. Start with a little dressing and add more if needed after mixing.
- Not slicing vegetables uniformly: Different sizes in your veggies can lead to uneven textures. Aim for consistent sizes to ensure a balanced bite.
- Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste before serving! You may need to adjust salt or pepper based on your preference.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- The salad can last up to 2 days in the fridge without losing its freshness.
Freezing Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad… Simple and Good
- Freezing is not recommended since cucumbers have high water content which makes them soggy when thawed.
Reheating Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad… Simple and Good
- Oven: This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. Reheating may change the texture.
- Microwave: If reheating is necessary, do so briefly at low power.
- Stovetop: Similar to microwaving, warm gently if required but avoid overheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad… Simple and Good.
How do I make Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad… Simple and Good more flavorful?
Adding herbs like parsley or dill can enhance the taste. Experiment with spices as you prefer!
Can I add other vegetables to my salad?
Absolutely! Bell peppers or radishes can be great additions for extra crunch and flavor.
Is Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad… Simple and Good healthy?
Yes! It’s packed with fresh vegetables and is low in calories while being rich in vitamins.
What type of vinegar works best for this salad?
Both white vinegar and apple cider vinegar work well; choose according to your taste preference.
Final Thoughts
Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad… Simple and Good is a delightful dish that brings freshness to any table. Its versatility allows for endless customization with additional ingredients or dressings. Give this easy recipe a try—it’s sure to become a favorite!
Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad… Simple and Good
Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad… Simple and Good is a refreshing dish that captures the essence of summer with its vibrant colors and crisp textures. This delightful salad combines juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and zesty onions, all dressed in a tangy vinegar-based dressing that elevates every bite. Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or as a light lunch, this salad is not only quick to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste preferences. In just 10 minutes, you can create a healthy side dish that bursts with flavor and complements any meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
- Category: Salad
- Method: No cooking involved
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3 tomatoes, diced
- 3 cucumbers, peeled and sliced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup vinegar (white or apple cider)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 cup water
- ¼ cup olive oil
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, cucumbers, and sliced onion; toss gently.
- In a separate bowl or jar, whisk together vinegar, sugar, salt, water, and olive oil until fully combined.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
