Escape the summer heat with this vibrant and refreshing Italian Cucumber Tomato Salad! This simple yet elegant recipe is the perfect side dish for barbecues, picnics, or a light lunch. The combination of juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and a bright, tangy dressing creates a symphony of summer flavors that will leave you wanting more. Forget complicated recipes; this one is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and even less time. The fresh, clean taste is a welcome contrast to richer summer fare.
This incredibly versatile salad can be adjusted to your liking, adding olives, feta cheese, or even a sprinkle of fresh basil for an extra layer of deliciousness. Ready to experience the taste of summer in every bite? Let's dive into the simple, step-by-step instructions to create your own perfect Italian Cucumber Tomato Salad.
Tools Needed
- Knife
Ingredients
- Cucumber
- Plum Tomatoes
- Garbanzo Beans (cooked)
- Celery
- Bell Peppers
- Provolone Cheese or Feta Cheese
- Garlic: 2-3 tablespoons (chopped)
- Parsley
- Oregano
- Basil
- Garlic Powder
- Salt
- Black Pepper
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Balsamic Vinegar
- Red Wine Vinegar
- Black Olives
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Vegetables
- Chop the cucumber into small pieces. Remove the seeds.
- Wash and cut the plum tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Add other desired vegetables (celery, peppers).
Step 2. Add the Remaining Ingredients
- Add the cooked garbanzo beans to the salad.
- Add your choice of cheese (provolone, feta).
- Add 2-3 tablespoons of chopped fresh garlic.
- Add dried or fresh herbs (parsley, oregano, basil) and garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 3. Dress the Salad
- Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic or red wine vinegar.
Step 4. Toss and Serve
- Toss the salad gently.
- black olives, more cheese.
Read more: Sicilian Penne with Cauliflower: A Flavorful Mediterranean Dish
Tips
- For best results, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for about an hour to allow the flavors to blend.
- You can find more ingredient suggestions on the blog.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 250-350
- Fat: 15-25g
- Carbs: 20-30g
- Protein: 5-10g
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! It's best made a few hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld. However, avoid adding the dressing until just before serving to prevent the vegetables from getting soggy.
2. What kind of tomatoes are best for this salad?
Use ripe, juicy tomatoes – heirloom varieties or on-the-vine tomatoes work wonderfully. Avoid using mealy or unripe tomatoes.
3. Can I substitute ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to add olives, feta cheese, red onion, or fresh herbs like basil or oregano to customize the salad to your taste.
This simple Italian Cucumber Tomato Salad is the perfect embodiment of summer's fresh flavors. Enjoy this light and refreshing dish as a side to your favorite grilled meats or as a standalone meal. With minimal effort and maximum taste, this recipe is sure to become a summer staple.