Are you looking for a quick, easy, and healthy side dish that's bursting with fresh flavors? Look no further! This cucumber tomato salad with Italian dressing is the perfect addition to any summer meal. It's incredibly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and even less time, making it an ideal recipe for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This recipe is a celebration of fresh, vibrant ingredients, creating a delicious and healthy dish perfect for those seeking easy recipes and quick dinner ideas.
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 basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade – see variations below)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the vegetables: Wash and slice the cucumbers thinly. Halve or quarter the cherry or grape tomatoes depending on their size. If using red onion, thinly slice it. Chop the fresh basil leaves.
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Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion (if using). Add the chopped basil leaves.
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Dress the salad: Pour the Italian dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat evenly. Be careful not to over-toss, as you don't want to bruise the cucumbers.
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Season: Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your preference.
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Chill (optional): For best results, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is especially recommended if you are making the salad ahead of time.
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Serve: Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats, fish, or pasta. It's also a delicious addition to sandwiches or wraps.
Cooking Tips for the Best Cucumber Tomato Salad:
- Choose the right cucumbers: English cucumbers are ideal for this salad as they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, resulting in a less watery salad.
- Don't overdress: Start with a smaller amount of dressing and add more if needed. You can always add more, but you can't take it away!
- Add some crunch: Toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds add a nice textural contrast to the salad.
- Get creative with herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley, oregano, or dill.
Variations:
- Homemade Italian Dressing: Combine 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, 1 clove garlic (minced), salt, and pepper to taste. Whisk until well combined.
- Feta Cheese: Crumble some feta cheese over the salad for a salty, tangy flavor.
- Avocado: Add diced avocado for a creamy texture and healthy fats.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on using 2 cups of salad and store-bought Italian dressing and may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
- Protein: 2-3g
This delicious and healthy cucumber tomato salad is a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest. It's a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to your taste preferences, making it a staple in your collection of best recipes. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this simple yet flavorful recipe is guaranteed to impress. Enjoy!