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Old-Fashioned Cucumber, Tomato & Onion Salad

Introduction

Old-Fashioned Cucumber, Tomato & Onion Salad is a classic summer dish that brings together the fresh flavors of seasonal produce in a simple and delicious way. This salad is a perfect combination of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy onions, dressed in a light and refreshing vinaigrette. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, a picnic in the park, or just looking for a healthy side dish, this salad is sure to please your taste buds.

One of the great things about this salad is its versatility. It can be served as a side dish to grilled meats, as a topping for burgers or sandwiches, or even as a standalone light meal. The vibrant colors and flavors of the ingredients make it not only appetizing but also nutritious, packed with vitamins and antioxidants.

In this article, we will explore the key ingredients needed to make this salad, the step-by-step instructions for preparing it, some creative variations to try, helpful tips for perfecting the dish, and finally, address some common questions that may arise when making Old-Fashioned Cucumber, Tomato & Onion Salad.

So, grab your cutting board and knife, and let’s dive into the world of fresh and flavorful salads!

Ingredients

Old-Fashioned Cucumber, Tomato & Onion Salad

To make Old-Fashioned Cucumber, Tomato & Onion Salad, you will need the following ingredients:

Fresh cucumbers – Choose firm and crisp cucumbers for the best texture.

Ripe tomatoes – Opt for juicy and flavorful tomatoes, preferably vine-ripened.

Red onion – Adds a sharp and tangy flavor to the salad.

Extra-virgin olive oil – For the vinaigrette dressing.

Red wine vinegar – Provides acidity and depth of flavor.

Fresh herbs (such as parsley or dill) – Optional, for added freshness and aroma.

Salt and pepper – To season the salad to taste.

Preparation

Before you begin assembling the salad, wash and dry the cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly. Peel the cucumbers if desired, and slice them thinly. Core the tomatoes and cut them into wedges or slices. Thinly slice the red onion into half-moons.

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper to create the vinaigrette dressing. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.

Chop the fresh herbs finely, if using, to sprinkle over the salad as a garnish.

Steps

Now that you have all your ingredients prepared, it’s time to put together the Old-Fashioned Cucumber, Tomato & Onion Salad:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions.

Drizzle the vinaigrette dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat evenly.

Let the salad sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh herbs over the salad for a pop of color and added freshness.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is best served chilled, making it a perfect dish to prepare ahead of time for gatherings or picnics. Pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or even as a topping for grilled burgers. It also makes a great accompaniment to crusty bread or as a light side dish for a barbecue spread.

Enjoy the crisp texture of the cucumbers, the juicy burst of flavor from the tomatoes, and the zing of the red onions in every bite of this refreshing salad.

Variations

While the classic Old-Fashioned Cucumber, Tomato & Onion Salad is a timeless favorite, there are endless variations you can try to put your own spin on this dish:

For added creaminess, toss in some crumbled feta cheese or cubes of fresh mozzarella.

Add a hint of sweetness by sprinkling some dried cranberries or raisins over the salad.

For a bit of crunch, mix in some toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds.

Experiment with different herbs like basil, mint, or cilantro to change up the flavor profile.

Tips

To ensure your Old-Fashioned Cucumber, Tomato & Onion Salad turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

Use the freshest and highest quality ingredients available for the best flavor.

Adjust the seasoning of the vinaigrette to suit your taste preferences – you can add a pinch of sugar for a touch of sweetness or a squeeze of lemon for extra acidity.

Allow the salad to marinate for at least 15-20 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

Feel free to customize the salad by adding or omitting ingredients based on your personal preferences.

Conclusion

Old-Fashioned Cucumber, Tomato & Onion Salad is a delightful dish that celebrates the bounty of summer produce in a simple and satisfying way. With its vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and versatility, this salad is a must-have for any summer gathering or meal.

Whether you follow the classic recipe or add your own creative touch with variations, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So, next time you’re looking for a light and refreshing side dish or a healthy snack, reach for the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions, and whip up this timeless salad in no time!

FAQs

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance and chill it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Just give it a quick toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Q: Can I use other types of onions in this salad?

A: While red onions are traditional for their color and flavor, you can certainly use other varieties like sweet onions or shallots for a milder taste.

Q: How long will this salad last in the refrigerator?

A: Old-Fashioned Cucumber, Tomato & Onion Salad is best enjoyed fresh but will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may release some moisture, so give it a stir before serving leftovers.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the salad by adding bell peppers, olives, or even avocado for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Old-Fashioned Cucumber, Tomato & Onion Salad

Old-Fashioned Cucumber, Tomato & Onion Salad

Recipe by Author

4.0 from 80 votes
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Difficulty: easy
🍽️
Servings
4
⏱️
Prep time
20 minutes
🔥
Cooking time
0 minutes
📊
Calories
180 kcal

A classic summer salad combining the fresh flavors of cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions dressed in a light vinaigrette, perfect for any gathering or meal.

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Ingredients

  • 2 fresh cucumbers
  • 2 ripe tomatoes
  • 1 red onion
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • Fresh herbs (such as parsley or dill)
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Directions

  1. Before assembling the salad, wash, dry, and prepare the cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion.
  2. Whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper to make the vinaigrette dressing.
  3. Combine cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions in a bowl, drizzle with dressing, and toss gently.
  4. Let the salad sit for 15-20 minutes before serving.
  5. Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs over the salad just before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 180
Fat: 14
Carbohydrates: 15
Protein: 2
Sodium: 480
Fiber: 3
Sugar: 9

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