Create a refreshing Cucumber Tomato and Onion Chopped Salad by mixing together crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and sharp onions with a zesty dressing made of herbs, vinegar, and spices. The cucumbers add a hydrating element, tomatoes bring sweetness, and onions give a tangy flavor. Combine red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper to create a well-balanced dressing. Add in fresh herbs, cheeses, and vinegars to customize the salad, serving in mini mason jars or on a rustic plate. Get creative with different ingredients for unique flavor combinations. Experience the delightful mix of flavors and textures in this refreshing dish.
Key Takeaways
- Fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions provide a hydrating and flavorful base.
- Tangy red wine vinegar and Dijon mustard dressing enhance the salad.
- Customize with herbs, cheeses, or vinegars for a personalized touch.
- Serve in creative ways like mason jars or cucumber cups.
- Refrigerate to meld flavors and keep the salad crisp and refreshing.
Ingredients
When preparing a Cucumber Tomato and Onion Chopped Salad, gather fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions as the main ingredients. These components form the base of the salad, providing a crisp and flavorful foundation. The Cucumber adds a cool and hydrating element to the dish, while the Tomato brings a juicy burst of sweetness. The Onion contributes a sharp and tangy note, balancing the flavors harmoniously.
For the dressing, a simple vinaigrette made with vinegar, oil, and seasonings is traditionally used to enhance the taste of the salad. The vinegar adds a subtle acidity that brightens the dish, while the oil provides a smooth and rich texture. Combined with the seasonings, the dressing ties all the ingredients together, elevating the overall taste experience.
In addition to the primary ingredients, fresh parsley is often included in the salad to add a pop of color and an herbaceous flavor. This herb complements the other components, enhancing the visual appeal and complexity of the dish.
Preparation
To prepare the cucumber tomato and onion chopped salad, start by chopping one long English cucumber or 3 Persian cucumbers into small, bite-sized pieces. Follow by chopping one pound of ripe tomatoes and 1/4 of a large sweet onion into similar-sized pieces.
Finely chop 1 cup of fresh parsley leaves to enhance the salad's taste. For the dressing, whisk together red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper to create a light and invigorating flavor that complements the vegetables.
Once the dressing is ready, toss the chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, onion, and parsley in the salad dressing until they're evenly coated. This step ensures that every bite of the delightful salad is bursting with flavor.
You can serve the salad immediately to enjoy its crispness, or refrigerate it for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to meld together even more. The preparation process sets the stage for a delightful culinary experience with this cucumber tomato and onion chopped salad.
Dressing Recipe
For the perfect finishing touch to your cucumber tomato and onion chopped salad, prepare the flavorful dressing by whisking together red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
The combination of red wine vinegar adds a tangy depth to the dressing that complements the crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes in your salad. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can also use white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar in place of the red wine vinegar.
The Dijon mustard adds a subtle kick of spiciness, while the honey brings a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity of the vinegar. A pinch of salt and a grind of pepper round out the flavors, creating a well-balanced dressing that enhances the natural freshness of the vegetables.
Whisking these ingredients together allows the flavors to meld, creating a cohesive dressing that coats each ingredient in your salad perfectly. Adjust the amounts of vinegar and honey to suit your taste preferences, ensuring that your cucumber tomato and onion chopped salad is a delightful medley of flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Enhance your dining experience by exploring creative ways to present and enjoy the vibrant cucumber tomato and onion chopped salad.
When serving this delicious salad, consider the following suggestions:
- Rustic Garden Bowl:
Serve the cucumber tomato salad in a large wooden bowl, garnished with a variety of fresh herbs like basil, mint, and chives. The earthy tones of the bowl complement the vibrant colors of the vegetables, creating a visually appealing presentation.
- Mini Mason Jar Salads:
For a personalized touch, layer individual portions of the salad in small mason jars. This presentation not only looks charming but also allows guests to see the colorful layers of cucumber, tomato, and onion, making it a perfect option for outdoor gatherings.
- Edible Cups:
Get creative by serving the salad in hollowed-out cucumber cups. These edible vessels not only add a unique twist to the presentation but also infuse an extra burst of cucumber flavor into each bite. Perfect for a summer salad that delights both the eyes and taste buds.
Customization Options
Consider customizing your cucumber tomato and onion chopped salad by incorporating additional ingredients and flavor variations to suit your preferences and elevate your dining experience.
To enhance the taste profile, experiment with different vinegar options such as red wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist.
You can also add feta cheese, avocado, bell peppers, or mozzarella to introduce extra flavor and texture to your salad.
Elevate the freshness of your dish by incorporating fresh herbs like basil, oregano, dill, or parsley.
For a visual and textural change, try using cherry tomato halves instead of regular tomato chunks.
These customization options provide a versatile way to tailor the salad to your liking and cater to various preferences.
Serve your customized salad alongside grilled meats and crusty bread for a well-rounded and satisfying meal that's sure to impress your guests with its unique flavors and presentation.
Storage Tips
Store your chopped cucumber, tomato, and red onions salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness.
Here are some essential tips for storing your salad:
- Seal it Tight: Place the salad in an airtight container to prevent air exposure, which can lead to wilting and loss of flavor.
- Keep it Cool: The refrigerator is the best place to store your salad to make sure it stays fresh and safe to eat for a longer duration.
- Layer Wisely: Consider adding a layer of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the salad before sealing the container. This extra step helps maintain the crispness of the cucumbers and ensures the flavors of the dressing are well preserved.
Recipe Variations
To add variety and flair to your cucumber tomato and onion chopped salad, try experimenting with different ingredients and flavors.
For a twist on the classic recipe, consider using red onions instead of white or shallots for a stronger flavor profile.
Enhance the salad with garden-fresh herbs like fresh basil to elevate its aroma and taste.
Additionally, you can add crumbled feta cheese for a creamy and tangy element or incorporate olives for a Mediterranean touch.
Experiment with different dressings such as a splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice in place of traditional Italian dressing for a tangy twist.
For a unique texture, swap out the cucumber for spiralized zucchini or radishes.
These variations won't only add diversity to your salad but also provide an invigorating burst of flavors that will impress your taste buds.
Nutritional Information
The cucumber tomato and onion chopped salad is a low-calorie option packed with 18g of carbohydrates per serving. When considering the nutritional information of this invigorating cucumber salad, you can expect the following:
- Caloric Content: With approximately 76 calories per serving, this salad offers a light and satisfying addition to your meal.
- Carbohydrate Count: Each portion provides about 18g of carbohydrates, making it a good source of energy for your day.
- Onion Varieties: The inclusion of red onions adds a touch of sweetness to the salad, while raw onions offer a crisp and pungent flavor profile.
Incorporating sweet onion and raw onions into this easy cucumber salad not only enhances its taste but also contributes to its overall nutritional value. Whether you're watching your caloric intake or looking for a dish rich in carbohydrates, this salad can be a delightful choice for a summer meal.
User Comments
Users have highlighted the flavorful ingredient combination in the cucumber tomato and onion chopped salad.
Serving suggestions, such as adding feta cheese or avocado, were also popular among commenters.
Additionally, tips on prep and assembly for best taste and texture were shared by the community.
Flavorful Ingredient Combination
Praise for the flavorful combination of cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions in the chopped salad is abundant among users. The sweetness of ripe tomatoes complements the crunch of cucumbers and the sharpness of onions.
The fresh parsley adds a burst of herbaceous flavor to the salad. Sweet onions like Walla Walla or Vidalia provide a mild, crunchy element without overpowering the dish. The combination of these vegetables and herbs creates a revitalizing and satisfying side dish.
- Imagine the juicy, vibrant red tomatoes intermingling with the crisp, cool cucumbers, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
- Picture the pungent aroma of the sharp onions being tempered by the mild sweetness of the Walla Walla or Vidalia onions, enhancing the overall taste profile.
- Visualize the bright green fresh parsley leaves delicately scattered throughout the salad, infusing each bite with a rejuvenating herbaceous note.
Serving Suggestions
Enhance your dining experience by pairing this invigorating cucumber tomato and onion chopped salad with grilled meats and crusty bread for a satisfying meal. Users recommend serving this salad as a side dish to complement the flavors of meats and bread, creating a well-rounded dining experience.
To guarantee a satisfying experience, consider making the salad ahead of your meal and refrigerating it for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld together. This make-ahead option guarantees that you have a revitalizing and flavorful side dish ready when you need it.
For added depth of flavor, users suggest incorporating fresh herbs like dill, basil, oregano, or parsley into the salad. These herbs can elevate the taste profile and provide a burst of freshness to each bite.
Additionally, consider customizing the salad with fun additions such as feta cheese, avocado, bell peppers, or mozzarella to suit your personal preferences. Experimenting with different types of vinegar, such as red wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or balsamic vinegar, can also offer varied flavor profiles in the dressing, enhancing the overall taste of the salad.
Prep and Assembly
For a well-balanced salad, make sure you chop the vegetables into small, uniform pieces as recommended by users.
To prepare the salad, start by finely dicing ripe red onions, crisp cucumbers, and juicy tomatoes.
Next, in a separate bowl, whisk together a tangy dressing made from red wine vinegar and a hint of ground black pepper.
Once the dressing is well combined, pour it over the chopped vegetables and toss gently to guarantee an even coating.
For an extra burst of flavor, consider marinating the salad in the refrigerator for a couple of hours.
Finally, store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and allow the flavors to meld together over time.
Experimenting with different types of onions, such as red or purple, can introduce varying levels of sweetness and crunch to elevate the overall taste of the salad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cucumber and Tomato Salad Good for You?
Yes, cucumber and tomato salad is good for you. It's low in calories, high in vitamins, and hydrating. Cucumbers are rich in antioxidants, tomatoes offer vitamin C and potassium, and onions provide fiber and anti-inflammatory benefits. Enjoy this nutritious dish!
Is Tomato and Cucumber a Good Combination?
When you mix tomatoes and cucumbers, it's like a symphony of flavors dancing on your palate. The juicy tang of tomatoes meets the crisp freshness of cucumbers in a perfect harmony. A delightful combo indeed!
What Is Southern Thunder and Lightning?
Southern Thunder and Lightning is a classic Southern dish with sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions. Known for its simplicity and vibrant flavors, it's a revitalizing side dish. The combo of cucumbers and onions creates a unique taste.
How Do You Spell Cucumber Salad?
When spelling "cucumber salad," remember to use 'cucumber' as the main ingredient. Including tomatoes and onions could make it more elaborate. Sprinkle some herbs or cheese for extra flavor. Enjoy this versatile and cool side dish!
Can I Use Nancy Silverton’s Chopped Salad Recipe as a Refreshing Side Dish?
Yes, you can use Nancy Silverton’s chopped salad recipe as a refreshing side dish for any meal. The combination of fresh, crunchy vegetables and tangy vinaigrette in Nancy Silverton’s chopped salad is perfect for complementing a variety of main courses.
Conclusion
To sum up, this cucumber tomato and onion chopped salad is a delightful addition to any meal, providing a burst of freshness and flavor.
Stay tuned for more delicious recipes to elevate your culinary experience.
Francesca, as the creative force behind our compelling content, combines culinary expertise with journalistic flair. She has a deep appreciation for the cultural histories and artisanal traditions that influence remarkable flavors around the world. Through engaging narratives, she transports our audience to the heart of each culinary experience. Whether she’s documenting the centuries-old techniques of a Sicilian cheese maker or uncovering the personal stories of our producers, Francesca’s storytelling prowess drives our mission to connect people through food.
