Cucumber & Tomato Salad with Garlic Dressing
Ingredients
Tap the ingredients you have on hand
- 1 cucumber, diced≈ $1.10
- 1 large tomato, diced≈ $1.10
- 1/4 onion, thinly sliced≈ $0.10
- 1 clove garlic, minced≈ $0.10
- 2 tbsp olive oil≈ $0.30
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar≈ $0.55missing
- 1/2 tsp salt≈ $0.10
- 1/4 tsp black pepper≈ $0.10
- 1/2 tsp sugar≈ $0.10
Prices are rough US grocery estimates per ingredient and may vary by store and season.
Instructions
- 1
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, and sugar to make the dressing.
- 2
In a large bowl, combine diced cucumber, diced tomato, and thinly sliced onion.
- 3
Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat.
- 4
Let sit for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.
About this recipe
Brighten your plate with a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad, a quintessential Mediterranean side dish that comes together in a flash. This vibrant salad, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a summer barbecue, features crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a zesty garlic dressing that will tantalize your taste buds. It is incredibly simple to prepare, requiring just about ten minutes of active cooking time, making it an ideal choice for healthy eating when you are short on time. This easy-to-make salad serves two people generously, making it suitable for a light lunch or a delightful accompaniment to grilled chicken or fish. Its fresh ingredients and tangy dressing offer a delightful contrast to heavier main courses, providing a healthy and flavorful addition to any meal. Enjoy this simple yet sophisticated dish that highlights the natural flavors of garden-fresh produce.
The story behind it
The origins of this simple cucumber and tomato salad are deeply rooted in Mediterranean culinary traditions, where fresh, seasonal vegetables are king. Similar salads are staples across Greece, Turkey, and other countries in the region, often enjoyed as part of a meze spread or as a refreshing counterpoint to richer dishes. It is a testament to the power of quality ingredients, where minimal preparation yields maximum flavor, a philosophy passed down through generations in home kitchens.
Chef's tips
- 1For the best texture, dice the cucumber and tomato into roughly equal-sized pieces so each bite is balanced.
- 2Allow the thinly sliced onion to soak in cold water for 5-10 minutes to mellow its sharp flavor before adding to the salad.
- 3Whisk the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and sugar vigorously until emulsified for a well-blended dressing.
- 4Toss the vegetables and dressing just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
- 5Adjust the amount of sugar in the dressing to balance the acidity of the vinegar and the sweetness of the tomatoes to your preference.
Ways to make it your own
Stir in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or sour cream to the dressing for a richer, creamier texture.
Add chopped fresh dill, parsley, or mint for an aromatic twist and additional Mediterranean flair.
Include a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few drops of hot sauce in the dressing for a gentle heat.
Top with crumbled feta cheese or chickpeas to transform it into a more substantial meal.
Frequently asked
How can I prevent the salad from getting watery?+
To avoid a watery salad, toss the vegetables with the dressing just before serving, and consider seeding the tomatoes before dicing them.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?+
While best fresh, you can prepare the diced vegetables and dressing separately and combine them up to an hour before serving for optimal texture.
What is the best way to dice a tomato for this salad?+
For uniform dicing, cut the tomato in half, remove the seeds if desired, then slice into strips and dice across the strips.
Why add sugar to a savory salad dressing?+
A small amount of sugar helps to balance the acidity of the apple cider vinegar and enhance the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
Is it better to use red or white onion for this salad?+
Red onion is often preferred for its milder flavor and appealing color in salads, but white onion can be used if red is unavailable.