Refreshing Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Tangy Dressing
Description
This Refreshing Cucumber and Tomato Salad is a crisp, light, and flavorful dish, perfect for warm days. Juicy tomatoes and crunchy cucumbers are tossed with a tangy lemon dressing, fresh herbs, and a hint of garlic. It’s a quick, low-calorie, and nutrient-rich salad that pairs well with any meal or can be enjoyed on its own!
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved) or 2 large tomatoes (diced)
- 1 large cucumber (sliced or diced)
- ½ small red onion (thinly sliced)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley or basil (chopped)
- ¼ cup feta cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
For the Tangy Dressing:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (or red wine vinegar)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- ½ tsp honey or maple syrup (optional for balance)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
1. Prepare the Vegetables
- Wash and chop tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion.
- Place them in a large mixing bowl.
2. Make the Tangy Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
3. Assemble the Salad
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss to combine.
- Sprinkle with fresh herbs and feta cheese (if using).
4. Serve & Enjoy
- Serve immediately for a crisp texture or let it chill for 15 minutes for deeper flavors.
Notes & Tips
- Crunchy Twist: Add toasted nuts (almonds, pine nuts) or croutons for texture.
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for heat.
- Make It Creamy: Mix in avocado or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
- Best Tomatoes: Use heirloom, Roma, or grape tomatoes for extra sweetness.
- Marinate for Flavor: Let sit for 30 minutes for deeper flavor infusion.
Servings & Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~120
- Protein: ~2g
- Carbohydrates: ~8g
- Fat: ~9g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Sugar: ~3g
(Values may vary based on ingredients used.)
Health Benefits of Cucumber & Tomato Salad
- Hydrating & Refreshing: Cucumbers are high in water content, keeping you hydrated.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Tomatoes contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.
- Heart-Healthy Fats: Olive oil provides good fats for heart health.
- Supports Digestion: Fiber from vegetables aids in gut health.
- Low in Calories: Great for weight management and light eating.
Q&A (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! However, for the best texture, add the dressing right before serving to prevent sogginess.
Q: Can I use a different dressing?
Absolutely! Try balsamic vinaigrette, tzatziki, or a yogurt-based dressing.
Q: How long does this salad last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Simply omit the feta or use a dairy-free cheese substitute.
Q: What can I serve with this salad?
It pairs well with grilled chicken, salmon, pita bread, or hummus.
This Refreshing Cucumber and Tomato Salad is a quick, easy, and nutrient-packed dish—perfect for any meal. Want to customize it? Let me know what flavors you love!