Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly refreshing side dish or light lunch? Look no further! This cucumber tomato salad recipe with apple cider vinegar is the perfect solution. It's incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and even less time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. This recipe is packed with fresh flavors and a delightful tang, guaranteed to brighten up any meal. Get ready to experience the simplicity and deliciousness of homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 pints cherry or grape tomatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced (optional, but adds a nice bite)
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
-
Prep the vegetables: Wash and thoroughly dry all your vegetables. Thinly slice the cucumbers and red onion (if using). Halve or quarter the tomatoes depending on their size. The goal is to have consistently sized pieces for even cooking and presentation.
-
Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion (if using). Add the chopped fresh dill.
-
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Make sure the salt and pepper are evenly distributed.
-
Dress the salad: Pour the dressing over the cucumber and tomato mixture. Toss gently to ensure all the vegetables are evenly coated. Avoid over-mixing, as you want to keep the vegetables relatively intact.
-
Chill (optional): For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. However, it’s perfectly delicious immediately if you're short on time!
Tips for the Best Cucumber Tomato Salad:
- Choose the right cucumbers: English cucumbers are ideal because they have fewer seeds and thinner skins, resulting in a less watery salad.
- Don't overdress: Start with less dressing and add more to taste. You can always add more, but you can't take it away!
- Get creative with herbs: Experiment with different herbs like parsley, chives, or mint to customize the flavor profile.
- Add some crunch: Toasted sunflower seeds or slivered almonds add a delightful textural contrast.
- Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick.
Variations:
- Feta Cheese: Crumble some feta cheese over the salad for a salty, tangy addition.
- Avocado: Diced avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats.
- Lemon Juice: Substitute or supplement the apple cider vinegar with fresh lemon juice for a brighter citrusy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100-150
- Fat: 8-10g
- Protein: 2-3g
- Carbohydrates: 5-7g
- Fiber: 2-3g
This refreshing cucumber tomato salad is a perfect example of how easy and delicious healthy meals can be. It's a fantastic side dish for barbecues, potlucks, or simply a light and satisfying lunch or dinner. Enjoy this simple yet flavorful recipe and elevate your everyday meals with the magic of homemade cooking. The vibrant colors and fresh taste will surely impress your family and friends.