Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Red Onions

Crunchy and refreshing, Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Red Onions is a delightful dish perfect for summer gatherings or a light lunch. This vibrant salad combines the crispness of cucumbers, the juiciness of ripe tomatoes, and the sharpness of red onions, all enhanced by a simple vinaigrette. Its versatility makes it suitable for barbecues, picnics, or as a side dish to complement any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad takes only 10 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy days.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh cucumbers and tomatoes ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Dish: It pairs well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal.
• Healthy Option: Low in calories and packed with nutrients, this salad supports a healthy diet.
• Customizable: Feel free to substitute herbs or add your favorite veggies for a personal touch.

Tools and Preparation

To make our Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Red Onions, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help you achieve the best results while keeping the process simple.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mason jar
• Mandolin slicer or sharp knife
• Salad bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Mason jar: Perfect for mixing your vinaigrette; just shake it up to emulsify the dressing quickly.
• Mandolin slicer: Ensures uniform slices of cucumbers and onions for an appealing presentation.
• Salad bowl: A large bowl provides enough space to toss the ingredients without spilling.

Ingredients

Crunchy cucumbers, heirloom tomatoes, thinly sliced red onions, and fresh dill all dressed in a simple vinaigrette make this salad refreshing.

Fresh Produce

• 3-4 ripe tomatoes (I used heirloom tomatoes)
• 3-4 Kirby cucumbers or 1 thin English cucumber
• 1/3 red onion (sliced thinly)
• 1 tbsp fresh dill (or herb of your choice)

Dressing Ingredients

• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 3 tbsp good quality extra virgin olive oil (I used unrefined olive oil)
• ½ tsp Dijon mustard (or multigrain mustard)
• Salt to taste

How to Make Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Red Onions

Step 1: Prepare the Vinaigrette

1. In a small mason jar, combine the red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and salt.
2. Put the lid on tightly and shake until the vinaigrette emulsifies.

Step 2: Slice Your Ingredients

1. Using a mandolin slicer or sharp knife, slice the cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions thinly.
2. Combine all sliced ingredients in a large salad bowl.

Step 3: Toss the Salad

1. Top the salad with fresh dill or another herb if using.
2. Start by adding 2 tablespoons of vinaigrette to the salad.
3. Toss gently to avoid tearing the delicate slices; add more dressing if desired.
4. Reserve any leftover vinaigrette for later use.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

Serve your Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Red Onions right away for maximum freshness! Enjoy this beautiful summer dish that delights both eye and palate.

How to Serve Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Red Onions

Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Red Onions is a refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

As a Standalone Dish

• Fresh and light, this salad can be enjoyed on its own as a healthy snack or a light lunch option.

With Grilled Meats

• Pair this salad with grilled chicken, steak, or fish. The crispness of the salad complements the smoky flavors beautifully.

In Tacos or Wraps

• Use this salad as a filling for tacos or wraps. Its crunchy texture adds a nice contrast to soft tortillas or flatbreads.

As a Side for Pasta Dishes

• This salad makes an excellent side for pasta dishes, providing a refreshing balance to heavier sauces.

Topped on Toast

• Serve it on toasted bread or bruschetta for a delicious appetizer. The fresh toppings elevate simple toast into something special.

How to Perfect Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Red Onions

To make the most of your Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Red Onions, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose ripe tomatoes: Select firm, ripe heirloom tomatoes for the best flavor and texture in your salad.
• Slice thinly: Cut cucumbers and red onions as thin as possible for better integration of flavors.
• Chill before serving: Refrigerate the salad for about 30 minutes before serving. This enhances the freshness and allows flavors to meld.
• Experiment with herbs: While dill is fantastic, try substituting with basil or parsley for different flavor profiles.
• Adjust seasoning: Always taste and adjust the vinaigrette before serving. A little extra salt or acid can make a big difference.
• Store vinaigrette separately: Keep any leftover dressing separate from the salad to maintain crispness if you plan to serve later.

Best Side Dishes for Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Red Onions

Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Red Onions pairs well with various dishes. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside it.

1. Grilled Chicken Breast – Seasoned simply with herbs, grilled chicken adds protein without overpowering the salad’s fresh flavors.
2. Pasta Primavera – A colorful mix of seasonal vegetables tossed in olive oil makes a vibrant choice beside this refreshing salad.
3. Roasted Potatoes – Crispy roasted potatoes provide a hearty contrast to the lightness of the cucumber and tomato salad.
4. Hummus Platter – A spread of hummus served with pita chips and veggies complements the fresh ingredients beautifully.
5. Quinoa Bowl – A quinoa bowl topped with roasted vegetables offers wholesome nutrition that pairs well with the salad.
6. Stuffed Peppers – Flavorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and spices make an exciting main course next to this light side dish.
7. Cheese Board – An assortment of cheeses can enhance any meal, offering creamy textures that balance out the crunchiness of the salad.
8. Breadsticks – Lightly seasoned breadsticks are easy to grab and enjoy along with your fresh salad, adding fun to your dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Red Onions. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Using dull knives: A dull knife can crush vegetables instead of slicing them, making the salad watery. Always use a sharp knife or mandolin for clean cuts.
• Not seasoning properly: Skipping salt or dressing can result in bland flavors. Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
• Overdressing the salad: Adding too much vinaigrette can make the salad soggy. Start with a little and add more as needed to keep it fresh and crisp.
• Cutting veggies too early: Prepping vegetables too far in advance can lead to wilting. Cut them just before serving for maximum crunch.
• Ignoring herb freshness: Using wilted herbs can dull flavor. Opt for fresh dill or other herbs for a vibrant taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store your salad in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Containers: Use an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent odors from mingling.

Freezing Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Red Onions

• Not recommended: Freezing this salad is not ideal due to texture changes in cucumbers and tomatoes after thawing.

Reheating Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Red Onions

• Oven: Not applicable as this salad is best served cold.
• Microwave: Avoid reheating; serve chilled for the best flavor.
• Stovetop: Not recommended; enjoy fresh instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Red Onions:

What makes Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Red Onions special?

This salad combines fresh ingredients, bringing together crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and zesty red onions for a refreshing dish perfect for summer.

Can I customize my Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Red Onions?

Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like feta cheese, olives, or avocado for extra flavor and texture.

Is this salad healthy?

Yes! It is low in calories while providing vitamins from fresh vegetables, making it a nutritious choice.

How should I serve Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Red Onions?

Serve it as a side dish at barbecues, picnics, or alongside grilled meats for a delicious complement.

Final Thoughts

Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Red Onions is a delightful dish that offers refreshing flavors perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s simple yet satisfying!