This vibrant and refreshing Tomato Cucumber Salad combines juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and tangy red onions, all tossed in a zesty homemade vinaigrette. It's an ideal side dish for summer gatherings, barbecues, or a light, healthy meal. The bright flavors and crunchy textures make it a crowd-pleaser.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 5 large tomatoes (preferably vine-ripened), quartered

• 1 English cucumber, peeled and sliced

• 1/2 large red onion, thinly sliced

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Vinaigrette Dressing:

• 1/2 cup olive oil

• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1/2 teaspoon honey or brown sugar (optional, depending on dietary preferences)

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Directions

1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the quartered tomatoes, sliced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, chopped parsley, and chopped cilantro. Season with a pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss gently to mix.

2. Make the Vinaigrette Dressing: In a small bowl or mason jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and honey or brown sugar (if using). Whisk until the dressing is well emulsified.

3. Combine and Marinate: Pour the vinaigrette dressing over the salad mixture. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and let the salad sit at room temperature for 1 to 3 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the taste.

4. Serve: After marinating, give the salad a final toss and serve immediately. Enjoy this refreshing dish as a side or light main course.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 180 kcal

• Protein: 2 g

• Total Fat: 18 g

  • Saturated Fat: 2.5 g

  • Monounsaturated Fat: 13 g

  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.5 g

• Carbohydrates: 6 g

  • Dietary Fiber: 2 g

  • Sugars: 3 g

• Sodium: 300 mg

• Potassium: 400 mg

• Vitamin A: 10% DV

• Vitamin C: 25% DV

• Calcium: 2% DV

• Iron: 4% DV