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This cherry tomato cucumber salad combines fresh vegetables with a zesty dressing for a crisp, refreshing side dish. Quick to prepare and perfect for warm weather meals, it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free.
Fresh, vibrant, and crunchy salad perfect for quick lunches or light dinners.
This cherry tomato cucumber salad is a refreshing way to enjoy fresh, seasonal produce. It combines crisp textures with bright, natural flavors that awaken the palate.
The salad is quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy days or last-minute meals. Its light dressing perfectly complements the vegetables without overwhelming them.
Perfect for warm weather, this dish is both hydrating and satisfying. It’s a versatile side that pairs well with a variety of main courses and cuisines.
Recipe Overview
Why This Recipe Works
Here’s why this Cherry Tomato Cucumber Salad Recipe recipe has become a go-to favorite.
Why We Love It
- Quick and easy to prepare in just 10 minutes.
- Uses fresh, wholesome ingredients for natural flavor.
- Hydrating and low in calories, great for warm days.
- Naturally vegan and gluten-free, suitable for many diets.
- No cooking required, saving time and effort.
- Versatile enough to pair with many meals or enjoy alone.
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Key Ingredients
Using ripe cherry tomatoes is essential as they provide natural sweetness and juiciness that balance the crispness of cucumbers. Fresh cucumbers with firm skin help maintain the salad’s crunch and prevent sogginess.
Gather these fresh ingredients to make a simple, flavorful salad that highlights summer’s best produce.
Ingredient Notes
- For the Salad
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon fresh mint, chopped
- For the Dressing
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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Equipment Needed
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these straightforward steps to create a fresh and balanced salad with a tangy dressing.
Pro Tip
Toss the salad just before serving to keep the cucumbers crisp and prevent the tomatoes from releasing too much juice.
Success Tips
- Use firm cucumbers to avoid watery salad.
- Slice onions thinly to prevent overpowering sharpness.
- Add dressing just before serving to maintain crispness.
- Adjust vinegar and honey to balance acidity and sweetness.
- Chill ingredients beforehand for a cooler, refreshing salad.
Ingredient Swaps
If you need to swap ingredients, here are some practical alternatives.
Best Substitutions
- Cherry tomatoes can be replaced with grape tomatoes or diced regular tomatoes.
- Cucumber can be swapped for zucchini for a different texture.
- Red onion can be substituted with shallots or green onions.
- Feta cheese can be omitted or replaced with vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
- Red wine vinegar can be replaced with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: It’s best to prepare the salad and dressing separately and combine them just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp.
Q: Can I freeze this salad?
A: Freezing is not recommended as cucumbers and tomatoes become watery and lose texture when thawed.
Q: Is this salad vegan?
A: Yes, simply omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative to keep it vegan.
Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Bell peppers, radishes, or avocado can be great additions to enhance flavor and texture.
Storage Tips
Proper storage keeps your salad fresh and tasty for later enjoyment.
Storage & Reheating
- Store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers.
- Keep the salad refrigerated and consume within 1-2 days for best texture.
- If dressed, eat within a few hours to avoid sogginess.
- Avoid freezing as fresh vegetables lose texture when thawed.
What to Serve With It
Complement this salad with these dishes for a satisfying meal.
Serving Suggestions
- Grilled chicken or fish for added protein
- Crusty bread or pita for a light lunch
- Quinoa or couscous for a hearty side
- Hummus and olives for a Mediterranean-inspired spread
Cherry Tomato Cucumber Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- For the Salad
- ☐ 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- ☐ 1 large cucumber, diced
- ☐ 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- ☐ 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ☐ 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- ☐ 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ☐ 1 teaspoon fresh mint, chopped
- For the Dressing
- ☐ 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ☐ 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- ☐ 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ☐ 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- ☐ Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- 1 1. Rinse the cherry tomatoes and cucumber thoroughly under cold water.
- 2 2. Halve the cherry tomatoes and dice the cucumber into bite-sized pieces, leaving the skin on for extra crunch.
- 3 3. Thinly slice the red onion and chop the parsley and mint finely.
- 4 4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- 5 5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and mint.
- 6 6. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- 7 7. If using, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top just before serving for a creamy contrast.
- 8 8. Serve immediately or chill for up to 30 minutes to let flavors meld without losing crunch.
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