Tired of heavy salads? Craving a light yet satisfying dish that bursts with fresh flavors? Then look no further! This creamy cucumber tomato salad is the perfect solution for a quick and easy healthy meal, a vibrant side dish, or a delightful light lunch. It's unbelievably simple to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is packed with refreshing flavors that are perfect for warm weather. Get ready to elevate your summer meals with this delicious and healthy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 pints cherry or grape tomatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream for a richer flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prep the vegetables: Start by thoroughly washing and preparing all your vegetables. Thinly slice the cucumbers, halve or quarter the tomatoes depending on their size, and thinly slice the red onion. Chopping the dill and parsley ensures even distribution of their vibrant flavors.
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Whisk the dressing: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed; you might want a bit more lemon juice for extra zing or a touch more garlic powder for a stronger savory note.
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Combine and chill: Gently add the sliced cucumbers, halved tomatoes, and sliced red onion to the bowl with the creamy dressing. Toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated. For best results, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This chilling step also enhances the crispness of the cucumbers and tomatoes.
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Garnish and serve: Before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh dill and parsley over the salad. This adds a burst of freshness and beautiful color. Serve chilled and enjoy this healthy and delicious homemade dish!
Tips and Variations:
- For a spicier kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
- Add some crunch: Toasted sunflower seeds or slivered almonds add a delightful crunch.
- Make it a complete meal: Add cooked chicken, grilled shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier salad.
- Use different herbs: Feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like mint or chives.
- Adjust the creaminess: For a lighter dressing, reduce the amount of Greek yogurt and add more lemon juice.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings. Nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. This is an estimate based on using plain Greek yogurt.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 5-7g
- Fat: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This creamy cucumber tomato salad is a perfect example of easy recipes and healthy meals that are both delicious and satisfying. It’s a fantastic addition to any summer gathering, potluck, or picnic. The bright, refreshing flavors make it a perfect quick dinner idea too! Enjoy this simple homemade cooking creation and let us know what you think in the comments below!