🌟 Tomato Cucumber and Onion Salad – A Fresh, Healthy Side Dish

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❤️ Introduction

Looking for a refreshing, healthy, and easy-to-make salad that’s packed with vibrant flavors?
This Tomato Cucumber and Onion Salad is the perfect choice. With juicy, ripe tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and sharp onions, this salad brings together the best of fresh summer produce.

Tossed in a simple vinaigrette and seasoned with herbs, it’s an ideal side dish for summer cookouts, barbecues, or even as a light lunch. The best part? It only takes minutes to prepare!

Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or enjoying it on its own, this salad is sure to brighten up any meal.

🔧 Recipe Preparation Equipment

You’ll need:

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring spoons
  • Small bowl or jar for the dressing
  • Spoon for tossing

🛒 Ingredients

For the Salad:

  • 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced or sliced
  • 1 large cucumber, peeled and sliced or diced
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional)

For the Dressing:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar or honey (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

🍽️ How to Make Easy Tomato Cucumber and Onion Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by dicing or slicing the tomatoes and cucumber into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the onion. If you prefer a milder flavor, soak the onion slices in cold water for 10–15 minutes to reduce some of their sharpness.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper. Shake or stir until the dressing is well combined.

Step 3: Toss the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, add the prepared tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently to combine. Be careful not to mash the vegetables.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Garnish the salad with freshly chopped parsley or basil for extra flavor and color. Serve immediately, or let it chill in the fridge for 15-20 minutes for the flavors to meld.

🌈 Variations

  • Add Cheese: Crumbled feta, goat cheese, or mozzarella can add a creamy touch.
  • Add Olives: Kalamata or green olives make a Mediterranean-inspired twist.
  • Herb Variations: Swap parsley for fresh mint, dill, or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
  • Add Protein: Add grilled chicken, tuna, or chickpeas for extra protein.
  • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for some heat.

🧑‍🍳 Cooking Notes

  • Tomatoes: Choose ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. If you’re using large tomatoes, you can deseed them before adding them to the salad.
  • Cucumber: If the cucumber skin is thick or bitter, peel it off before slicing.
  • Onion: Red onions are perfect for this salad because they are milder and sweeter than other onions, but you can also use yellow onions if you prefer.
  • Let it Sit: If you have time, let the salad sit for 15–20 minutes to let the dressing soak into the vegetables.

🍴 Serving Suggestions

  • Serve as a side dish with grilled meats, seafood, or vegetable dishes.
  • Pair it with pasta or rice dishes for a light lunch.
  • Perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, and family gatherings.
  • Enjoy it as a light, refreshing meal on a hot day with some crusty bread on the side.

💡 Helpful Tips

  • Chill Before Serving: The salad is even better when it’s chilled for 15–20 minutes before serving.
  • Make Ahead: You can make this salad up to 1 day ahead, but keep the dressing separate and combine right before serving to prevent the vegetables from getting soggy.
  • Customize the Dressing: Adjust the level of acidity with more or less vinegar depending on your preference. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for extra freshness.

⏱️ Prep and Cooking Time

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes

📊 Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)

  • Calories: 120
  • Protein: 2g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Carbs: 9g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 250mg

❓ FAQs

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad can be made up to 1 day ahead, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to prevent the veggies from becoming too soft.

Q: Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Yes, you can substitute white wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar or even balsamic vinegar for a different flavor.

Q: What other vegetables can I add to the salad?

You can add bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for additional crunch and color.

✅ Conclusion

This Tomato Cucumber and Onion Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
It’s light, healthy, and incredibly easy to prepare—making it the ideal side dish for summer cookouts, potlucks, or a refreshing lunch.
With just a few ingredients, you can enjoy the crisp, refreshing flavors of fresh produce, and it’s versatile enough to suit your preferences.

Whether served on its own or paired with your favorite main course, this salad is sure to impress. Try it today and bring a burst of freshness to your next meal!

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