Cucumber and Tomato Salad
A crisp and refreshing salad featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, cool cucumber, and sharp red onion tossed in a simple lemon and olive oil dressing. It's a perfect light side dish, ready in just 10 minutes.
For 1 serving
3 steps.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the vegetables
- b.In a medium bowl, combine the diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Make the dressing and combine
- b.In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice.
- c.Pour the dressing over the vegetables.
- d.Add the chopped fresh parsley and a pinch of black pepper, if using.
- e.Toss gently to combine everything well.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Serve immediately
- b.Transfer the salad to a serving bowl and enjoy right away for the best texture.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For extra crispness, you can chill the diced cucumber for 15-20 minutes before adding it to the salad.
- 2If you find red onion too sharp, soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain well before using.
- 3Use the freshest vegetables you can find for the best flavor and texture.
- 4This salad is best eaten fresh as the cucumber will release water over time, making it soggy.
Adapt it for your goals.
High protein
Add 1/4 cup of rinsed and drained chickpeas or some crumbled feta cheese for a protein boost.
healthyHealthy
Incorporate other fresh herbs like mint or dill for added flavor and nutrients without extra calories.
quickQuick
Use a pre-made lemon vinaigrette if you're short on time, but check the sodium content.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Hydrating
Cucumbers are over 95% water, making this salad an excellent way to stay hydrated.
Rich in Antioxidants
Tomatoes are a great source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to reducing the risk of certain diseases.
Excellent Source of Vitamin C
The fresh parsley and lemon juice provide a good amount of Vitamin C, which is essential for immune function and skin health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this salad is very healthy. It's low in calories and packed with vitamins, minerals, and hydration from the fresh vegetables. The olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats.