This colorful salad features crispy cucumbers, juicy heirloom tomatoes, and zesty red onions. It’s fresh, healthy, and super easy to toss together!
Nothing says summer like this salad. I love how the bright colors make my dinner plate pop. Plus, it’s a great way to get my veggies in without even trying! 🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Heirloom Tomatoes: These come in various colors and flavors, adding visual charm. If you can’t find them, any good-quality tomatoes will do, like beefsteak or vine-ripened tomatoes.
Cucumber: I prefer English cucumbers for their thin skin and fewer seeds, but regular cucumbers work just as well. You could also use zucchini if you’re feeling adventurous!
Red Onion: Red onion adds a mild sharpness. If you want a sweeter option, try using sweet onions or even scallions for a different flavor.
How Do I Get the Perfect Salad Dressing Balance?
Making a simple salad dressing is all about balancing flavors. Start with olive oil, then add vinegar for acidity. Honey helps cut the sharpness, but you can leave it out if you prefer a tangier taste.
- Use a 2:1 ratio of olive oil to vinegar for a classic dressing.
- Think about seasoning: salt and pepper enhance the flavors, so don’t skip them!
- Whisk well to emulsify the dressing before drizzling it on your salad.
Allowing the salad to sit for a bit after dressing lets the flavors mingle, enhancing the overall taste. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Fresh Cucumber and Heirloom Tomato Salad with Red Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 medium heirloom tomatoes (varied colors for visual appeal), sliced
- 1 medium cucumber, sliced (half-moons or rounds)
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced into rings
For the Dressing:
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp honey (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish (optional):
- Fresh basil or parsley leaves, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad is quick and easy, taking about 15 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend a few minutes preparing the ingredients and mixing the dressing, making it a perfect last-minute side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Veggies:
Start by washing and drying your heirloom tomatoes and cucumber. Slice the heirloom tomatoes into rounds about 1/4 inch thick, showcasing the beautiful colors. Then, slice the cucumber either into rounds or half-moons, whichever you prefer. Remember, the more colors, the more appealing the salad!
2. Slice the Onion:
Peel your small red onion and slice it thinly into rings. This will add a wonderful crunch and slight sharpness to your salad.
3. Arrange the Salad:
In a large salad bowl or a pretty plate, start layering the sliced heirloom tomatoes and cucumbers. Overlap them slightly to create a visually appealing display, ensuring each color shines through!
4. Add the Onions:
Once your tomatoes and cucumbers are arranged nicely, scatter the thinly sliced red onion rings evenly on top of your colorful vegetable layers. They’ll add flavor and contrast to the dish.
5. Whisk Up the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, honey (if you’re using it), salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined. This simple dressing will bring all the flavors together beautifully.
6. Drizzle the Dressing:
Now that your dressing is ready, drizzle it evenly over the salad. This will help bring out the natural flavors of the tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions.
7. Optional Garnish:
If you feel like jazzing up your salad even more, sprinkle some freshly chopped basil or parsley on top. It adds a lovely herbaceous touch!
8. Let It Meld:
Give your salad a moment to sit for 5-10 minutes—this lets the flavors blend together nicely. It’s like magic in a bowl!
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your fresh cucumber and heirloom tomato salad immediately as a refreshing side dish or light snack. Enjoy the crunch, sweetness, and vibrant colors!
This salad is a delightful combination of crispy cucumbers, juicy heirloom tomatoes, and zesty red onions, all coming together with a simple dressing. It’s healthy, delicious, and perfect for any meal!
FAQ for Fresh Cucumber and Heirloom Tomato Salad
Can I Use Other Types of Tomatoes?
Absolutely! While heirloom tomatoes add unique flavors and colors, you can substitute them with any firm, ripe tomatoes such as beefsteak, vine-ripened, or romas. Just choose what you have on hand!
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, keep in mind that the cucumbers may lose their crispness, so it’s best to eat it fresh!
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Yes! You can slice the ingredients and make the dressing up to a few hours ahead. Just keep them separate until ready to serve to maintain the salad’s freshness and texture.
What Other Ingredients Can I Add?
Feel free to customize your salad! You can add ingredients like feta cheese, avocados, olives, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. Just ensure they complement the dish without overpowering it!
