This bright salad combines crunchy cucumbers, juicy heirloom tomatoes, and zesty red onions for a refreshing taste. It’s like a summer picnic on your plate!
If you’re like me, you can’t resist a salad that looks as good as it tastes. I love serving it with a sprinkle of salt and a splash of olive oil—simple and scrumptious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Heirloom Tomatoes: These tomatoes bring vibrant colors and unique flavors. If they’re unavailable, you can use Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes. Look for tomatoes that feel heavy for their size, as they’ll be flavorful and juicy!
Cucumber: I prefer English cucumbers for their thin skin and fewer seeds, but any cucumber works just fine. If you’re looking to cut carbs, Zucchini can also be a tasty substitute. Just slice it thinly, like you would with a cucumber.
Red Onion: They add a sharp bite to the salad. You can use sweet onions or shallots for a milder taste. If you’re sensitive to raw onions, soaking them in cold water for a few minutes can help mellow their flavor.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for its rich taste. You can substitute it with avocado oil or any light oil you prefer, but keep the flavor profile in mind!
Red Wine Vinegar: It gives the salad a tangy kick. If you don’t have it, white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar will work well. Lemon juice can also brighten the dish, giving it freshness!
How to Prep the Vegetables Without Making a Mess?
When preparing your veggies, it’s important to keep it neat and efficient. Here’s how to tackle it:
- Start with a sharp knife for clean cuts, especially for the tomatoes to avoid squishing them.
- Use a cutting board that stays put. A damp paper towel under it can help keep it steady.
- First, wash all your produce to remove dirt. Then, slice the cucumber into rounds or half moons and place them in a bowl.
- Next, carefully slice the heirloom tomatoes and add them to the bowl. Try to retain their shape for a prettier salad!
- Lastly, slice the red onion thinly and add it cautiously, as the smell can be strong!
Let it rest for a few minutes after tossing to ensure that the flavors blend nicely. Happy salad making!
Fresh Cucumber and Heirloom Tomato Salad with Red Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables:
- 2 large heirloom tomatoes (varied colors if possible), sliced or chopped
- 1 large cucumber, peeled and sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
For The Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh basil or parsley leaves, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fresh salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare. There’s no cooking involved, just some washing, chopping, and tossing. Perfect for a quick and healthy side!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Wash and Prepare the Veggies:
Start by washing your heirloom tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion well. Slice the tomatoes into wedges or bite-sized chunks. Peel the cucumber and cut it into rounds or half moons, and thinly slice the red onion. The colors of heirloom tomatoes will make your salad look beautiful!
2. Combine the Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, add the prepared heirloom tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion rings. This bowl will be where all the magic happens!
3. Make the Dressing:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar or lemon juice over the veggies. Both dressings will give a delightful tangy contrast to the sweetness of the tomatoes.
4. Season It Up:
Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more later, so start with a pinch and adjust as needed!
5. Toss the Salad:
Gently toss all the ingredients together with a spoon. Be careful not to crush the tomatoes; you want them to stay intact to keep that delicious texture!
6. Let It Sit:
Let your salad sit for about 10 minutes. This waiting time allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
7. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, garnish the salad with fresh basil or parsley leaves before serving. This adds a lovely touch and enhances the flavor. Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish or a light appetizer!
Enjoy your fresh cucumber and heirloom tomato salad! It’s perfect for gatherings or simply as a treat for yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Tomatoes?
Absolutely! While heirloom tomatoes add great flavor and color, you can use Roma, cherry, or vine-ripened tomatoes as alternatives. Just choose firm, ripe tomatoes for the best taste!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan-Friendly?
This salad is already vegan-friendly, but if you want to boost its protein content, consider adding some chickpeas or tofu. Both options will complement the fresh flavors nicely!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. Enjoy it within 1-2 days for the best taste, as the tomatoes will become mushy over time.
Can I Add Other Ingredients for More Flavor?
Definitely! Feel free to add ingredients like avocado, feta cheese, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture. Just be sure to consider how the added flavors will blend with the main ingredients!
