Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad

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Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad: A Crisp and Vibrant Delight

When you’re craving something light, healthy, and bursting with flavor, this Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad is the perfect choice. Packed with crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a tangy homemade dressing, it’s the ultimate side dish or a refreshing stand-alone meal. Ready in just 10 minutes, this salad is as easy as it is delicious!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to create this vibrant salad:

  • 1 large cucumber: Thinly sliced for a crisp texture.
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes: Halved to release their natural sweetness.
  • 1 small red onion: Thinly sliced for a touch of tang.
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley: Chopped to add a burst of herbaceous flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil: For a rich, silky dressing base.
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Adds the perfect amount of tang.
  • 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional): Balances the flavors with a hint of sweetness.
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper: To taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Vegetables

  • Slice the cucumber into thin, even rounds for a satisfying crunch.
  • Halve the cherry tomatoes to create juicy, bite-sized pieces.
  • Thinly slice the red onion for a subtle sharpness that complements the salad.

2️⃣ Make the Dressing

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey (if using).
  • Add a pinch of salt and a dash of freshly cracked black pepper.
  • Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning to your preference.

3️⃣ Toss the Salad

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cucumber, tomatoes, and onion.
  • Drizzle the dressing evenly over the vegetables.
  • Gently toss everything together until the vegetables are fully coated.

4️⃣ Garnish and Serve

  • Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the salad for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
  • Serve immediately for maximum crunch and freshness, or let it chill for 15–20 minutes in the fridge to enhance the flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Salad

  • Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy days, this salad comes together in just 10 minutes.
  • Healthy and Light: Packed with fresh veggies and a simple dressing, it’s both nutritious and satisfying.
  • Versatile: Enjoy it as a side dish, a light lunch, or a base for grilled chicken, shrimp, or fish.

Pro Tips for Success

  • Use the Freshest Ingredients: Crisp cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and vibrant parsley make all the difference.
  • Try Different Herbs: Swap parsley for basil, dill, or mint to create new flavor profiles.
  • Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad rest in the fridge for a few minutes allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad is a celebration of simplicity, freshness, and vibrant flavors. It’s the perfect companion to any meal, whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a weeknight dinner, or looking for a refreshing snack.

Give this salad a try—you’ll fall in love with every crisp, zesty bite! 🥗✨

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