Why You'll Love It
- - Minimal prep, perfect for busy days
- - Fresh, clean flavors that brighten any plate
- - Nutrient‑rich vegetables in every forkful
- - Easy to customize with herbs or cheese
*"The salad was the star of our brunch – crisp, fresh, and so easy!"*
Essential Ingredient Guide
- Ripe tomatoes: Choose firm, deep‑red tomatoes; they add sweet acidity and juicy texture.
- Crisp cucumbers: Select English or Persian cucumbers for fewer seeds and a buttery crunch.
- Red onion: Thinly slice for a mild bite; soak in ice water briefly to soften sharpness.
- Olive oil & vinegar: A simple 3:1 ratio balances richness with bright tang.
- Lemon juice: Adds fresh citrus sparkle that lifts the vegetables.
- A pinch of sugar: Just enough to round out the acidity without making it sweet.
Complete Cooking Process
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Ingredient Readiness:
Wash all vegetables, pat dry, and slice uniformly so the dressing clings evenly.
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Flavor Development:
Toss the veggies with vinaigrette and let sit for a few minutes; the flavors meld gently.
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Texture Control:
Add the onion last to keep its crisp snap while the other vegetables stay tender.
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Finishing Touches:
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a drizzle of extra‑virgin olive oil just before serving.
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Serving Timing:
Serve at room temperature within an hour for optimal crispness and flavor.
- Use a light hand with salt; the vinaigrette already has seasoning.
- Chill the bowl for an extra refreshing bite.
- Add a handful of toasted pine nuts for subtle crunch.
Pro Tips
I often find that a chilled bowl makes the salad feel even more summer‑like, especially on warm afternoons. When the salad sits for a moment, the cucumber releases a gentle moisture that keeps the vinaigrette from drying out, so a quick toss right before the table is all you need.
The essence of the dish:
A fun fact or historical angle:
Flavor or sensory focus:
You Must Know
- Season the salad after dressing, not before.
- Use a sharp knife for clean cuts.
- Serve within 30 minutes for peak crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
→ Can I use red tomatoes instead of heirloom?
Absolutely. Ripe red tomatoes work just as well; choose ones that are firm yet juicy.
→ What if I don’t have red onion?
A mild white or sweet yellow onion works fine; slice thinly and soak briefly.
→ How long can I store the salad?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours; add fresh herbs just before serving.
→ Is it okay to add cheese?
Yes, crumbled feta or goat cheese adds a creamy tang that complements the vinaigrette.
→ Can this be made ahead for a party?
Prepare the veggies and dressing separately, then combine about 30 minutes before guests arrive.
→ What other herbs pair well?
Fresh basil, dill, or mint each bring a subtle aromatic lift.
Chef's Tips
If the onions are too sharp, soak the slices in cold water for 5 minutes and drain well.,For a brighter flavor, add a pinch of grated zest from the lemon.,A quick sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a subtle nuttiness.
Nutrition Facts
per serving
120
Calories
2g
Protein
10g
Carbs
8g
Fat
Taste Profile
Bright and refreshing with a gentle citrus tang
Ingredient Substitutions
Don't have an ingredient? Try these alternatives
Zucchini offers a similar crunch but milder flavor.
Provides a fruitier tang; adjust honey slightly.
Recipe Variations
Try these delicious twists on the original
Spicy Version
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vinaigrette for a gentle heat.
Mediterranean Style
Include crumbled feta, Kalamata olives, and a few sun‑dried tomato strips.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Learn from others' mistakes for perfect results
- Over‑salting the vinaigrette; always taste before adding more.
- Cutting cucumbers too thick; they become soggy.
- Leaving the salad too long before serving; texture can soften.
Meal Prep & Storage
Make Ahead Tips
You can whisk the vinaigrette up to a day ahead and store it in the fridge; give it a quick shake before tossing with the salad.
Leftover Ideas
Refresh leftover salad by adding a squeeze of lemon and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
Perfect Pairings
Serve this with...
Cooking Timeline
Wash and cut all vegetables; prepare vinaigrette.
Combine vegetables and dressing; toss gently.
Let the salad rest, then garnish and serve.
Tomato Cucumber and Onion Salad
A crisp, refreshing Tomato Cucumber and Onion Salad that brings garden‑fresh flavors to your table. Light vinaigrette, bright vegetables, and a whisper of herbs make it perfect for any season.
Timing
Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
0 Minutes
Total Time
15 Minutes
Recipe Details
Ingredients
Salad
- 01 4 ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges
- 02 2 large cucumbers, peeled and sliced
- 03 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 04 1/4 cup extra‑virgin olive oil
- 05 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 06 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 07 1 tsp honey or sugar
- 08 Salt and black pepper to taste
- 09 Fresh basil leaves, torn (optional)
Instructions
Wash and dry all vegetables. Cut tomatoes into wedges, slice cucumbers, and thinly slice the onion.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
Place the sliced vegetables in a large bowl, pour the vinaigrette over them, and toss gently to coat evenly.
Let the salad rest for 5‑10 minutes at room temperature, then garnish with fresh basil or a drizzle of extra oil before serving.
Notes & Tips
- 1 If the onions are too sharp, soak the slices in cold water for 5 minutes and drain well.
- 2 For a brighter flavor, add a pinch of grated zest from the lemon.
- 3 A quick sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a subtle nuttiness.
Tools You'll Need
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Sharp chef’s knife
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Cutting board
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Large mixing bowl
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Small whisk or fork
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Measuring spoons
Must-Know Tips
- Don’t over‑salt; taste after dressing.
- Pat vegetables dry to avoid watery salad.
- Add herbs at the end for maximum aroma.
Professional Secrets
- Use room‑temperature olive oil for a smoother emulsion.
- Whisk the vinaigrette vigorously to fully combine acid and oil.
- Allow the salad to sit briefly so the flavors meld.
Recipe by
Oliver Brooks“Every great meal begins with the perfect bite. My passion is crafting irresistible starters that wow.” 🧀🍢
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