Cucumber Tomato Salad
A refreshing and crunchy mix of diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions, tossed in a zesty lemon dressing. This simple Indian salad, also known as Kachumber, is the perfect cooling side dish for any meal.
For 4 servings
5 steps.
- 1
Prepare the vegetables: Wash the cucumber, tomatoes, and onion thoroughly
- a.Finely chop them into small, uniform pieces. For a less watery salad, deseed the tomatoes before chopping. If using, finely chop the green chili.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Combine the vegetables: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add the chopped cucumber, tomatoes, onion, and green chili (if using).
- 3
Step 3
- a.Add dressing and seasonings: Just before you are ready to serve, add the lemon juice, salt, black pepper powder, roasted cumin powder, and optional chaat masala to the bowl.
- 4
Garnish and toss: Add the freshly chopped coriander leaves
- a.Gently toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing and spices.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Serve immediately: Serve the salad right away to enjoy its maximum crunch and freshness. It pairs wonderfully with curries, dal, rice dishes, and grilled meats.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best texture, chop the vegetables right before serving.
- 2Always add salt and lemon juice at the very last moment to prevent the vegetables from releasing water and becoming soggy.
- 3For a milder onion flavor, soak the chopped onions in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain well before adding.
- 4Chill the vegetables in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before chopping for an extra cool and refreshing salad on a hot day.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Vegetables
Incorporate other crunchy vegetables like grated carrots, finely chopped bell peppers (capsicum), or shredded radish (mooli) for more color and nutrients.
Add ProteinAdd Protein
For a more substantial salad, add a handful of boiled chickpeas, sprouted moong beans, or crumbled paneer.
Herb VariationHerb Variation
Add finely chopped mint leaves (pudina) along with coriander for an extra layer of fresh flavor.
Fruity TwistFruity Twist
Add small cubes of firm mango or pomegranate arils for a sweet and tangy twist, especially when in season.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Promotes Hydration
Cucumbers are composed of about 96% water, making this salad an excellent way to stay hydrated, especially during warm weather.
Rich in Antioxidants
Tomatoes are a fantastic source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to reducing the risk of heart disease and certain cancers. Onions and coriander also contribute beneficial plant compounds.
Aids in Digestion
The high fiber content from the fresh vegetables helps promote healthy digestion and regular bowel movements. Roasted cumin powder is also traditionally known to aid digestion.
Supports Weight Management
This salad is very low in calories and fat but high in fiber and water, which helps you feel full and satisfied, making it an ideal choice for weight management.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of this salad contains approximately 35-45 calories, making it a very light and low-calorie side dish.