Rustic Tomato and Cucumber Salad

This Rustic Tomato and Cucumber Salad is a fantastic way to celebrate summer’s bounty. Picture this: juicy, sun-ripened tomatoes mingling with crisp, refreshing cucumbers—what’s not to love? This salad not only bursts with vibrant colors but also brings a symphony of flavors to your table. Perfect for casual lunches or lively gatherings, it’s easy to whip up and even easier to devour. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward and accessible. You’ll find that gathering fresh ingredients and tossing them together creates a dish that feels homemade yet sophisticated. So grab a knife, a cutting board, and let’s make something delicious together!

Jump to:

• Why This Recipe Works
• Why You’ll Love This Rustic Tomato and Cucumber Salad
• Ingredients
• Preparing the Vegetables
• Core and Cut Tomatoes
• Season the Tomatoes
• Slice the Cucumber
• Prepare the Red Onion
• Add Fresh Herbs
• Making the Dressing
• Combine Dressing Ingredients
• Dress the Salad
• Let It Marinate
• Serving Suggestions
• Tips for Success
• Variations
• Pairing Ideas
• FAQs
• More Easy Main Dishes Recipes:
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why This Recipe Works

This Rustic Tomato and Cucumber Salad captures the essence of summer with its fresh, vibrant ingredients. The balance of sweet, juicy tomatoes and crunchy cucumbers creates a delightful texture, while the aromatic herbs and zesty dressing elevate the flavors. Allowing the salad to rest lets the ingredients marinate, resulting in a deliciously cohesive dish.

Why You’ll Love This Rustic Tomato and Cucumber Salad

Not only is this salad quick and easy to prepare, but it also embodies a celebration of fresh produce. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a simple weeknight dinner, it caters to diverse palates and dietary preferences. The bold, refreshing flavors make it a favorite among both casual cooks and culinary enthusiasts.

Ingredients

• 5 large tomatoes (fresh and fully ripe)
• 1 pinch brown sugar
• 1 English cucumber (fresh and firm)
• 1/2 large red onion
• 2 Tbsp chopped fresh Italian parsley
• 2 Tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 pinch kosher salt
• 1 pinch black pepper
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil (high quality)
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 2 garlic cloves (pressed)
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp dried oregano

Preparing the Vegetables

Core and Cut Tomatoes

Begin by coring the tomatoes and cutting them into 6–8 wedges. After that, slice each wedge in half for bite-sized pieces. Place the tomato wedges in a large mixing bowl.

Season the Tomatoes

Sprinkle the tomatoes with a pinch of brown sugar, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss them well to combine the flavors. This part ignites the sweetness and lifts the overall taste of the salad.

Slice the Cucumber

Halve the English cucumber lengthwise, then slice it into 1/4″ thick pieces. Add the cucumber slices to the bowl with the tomatoes. The crunch of the cucumber complements the softness of the tomatoes beautifully.

Prepare the Red Onion

Thinly slice 1/2 of the red onion crosswise, then cut the slivers in half for easier mixing. Add the onions to the tomato-cucumber mixture for a zesty kick that brightens everything up.

Add Fresh Herbs

Gently fold in the chopped fresh parsley and cilantro into the salad mixture. The herbs not only add color but also infuse an aromatic freshness that enhances each bite.

Making the Dressing

Combine Dressing Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, pressed garlic, 1 tsp brown sugar, dried oregano, and a pinch of kosher salt until the mixture is well blended. A good dressing ties everything together beautifully.

Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture. Toss gently using both hands until everything is well coated. Take your time here; a thorough coating ensures every bite is infused with flavor.

Let It Marinate

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the salad sit at room temperature for 1 to 6 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and develop. This step is essential as it brings harmony among all those vibrant ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Rustic Tomato and Cucumber Salad on its own or as a side dish to grilled meats and fish. It pairs wonderfully with pita bread, feta cheese, or a refreshing yogurt dip. Trust me, the addition of those items creates a lovely summer feast.

Tips for Success

• Use freshly harvested tomatoes for the best flavor; they make all the difference.
• Letting the salad sit allows the flavors to deepen; however, avoid letting it marinate too long to retain the crispness of the cucumbers.
• Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your personal taste preferences; it’s all about what you enjoy.

Variations

• Add crumbled feta cheese for a creamy element that complements the salad nicely.
• Toss in diced avocado for added richness, creating a creaminess that balances the crunch.
• Consider including olives or capers for an extra burst of flavor; these additions can really elevate your dish.

Pairing Ideas

This salad is perfect for pairing with grilled chicken, fish tacos, or pasta dishes. Additionally, it pairs beautifully with a variety of breads, making it an excellent choice for brunch or lunch gatherings. The lightness of the salad contrasts well with heavier main dishes.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just keep it covered at room temperature to let the flavors develop without losing the freshness.

2. What type of tomatoes should I use?
Go for ripe, fresh tomatoes like heirloom or vine-ripened for the best flavor and texture in your Rustic Tomato and Cucumber Salad.

3. Is there a substitute for red wine vinegar?
If you don’t have red wine vinegar on hand, you can substitute it with white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a similar tangy flavor.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They usually taste pretty good the next day, too!

5. Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or radishes can all enhance the salad’s flavor and texture, allowing you to customize the dish to your liking.

With its simple yet bold ingredients, the Rustic Tomato and Cucumber Salad is bound to become a staple in your recipe collection. It captures fleeting summer flavors while being versatile enough for year-round enjoyment. Whether served at a gathering or as a refreshing weeknight side, this salad delights with every bite, keeping you coming back for more. Enjoy the layered flavors and textural contrasts, and don’t hesitate to personalize it to fit your palate. Happy cooking!

More Easy Main Dishes Recipes:

• Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
• Garlic Butter Salmon
• Strawberry Spinach Pasta Salad
• Cheesy Baked Asparagus

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