The sun is shining, the grill is sizzling, and the smell of hamburgers wafts through the air like a tantalizing whisper. You know what this means—it’s time for a gathering that deserves a star dish like Memorial Day Cucumber Tomato Salad. This dish isn’t just a salad; it’s an ode to summer! Crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes come together in a refreshing mix that dances on your taste buds.
Picture yourself lounging under a bright blue sky with friends and family while enjoying this vibrant salad. The tangy dressing glistens on the fresh veggies, making every bite burst with flavor. As you dig in, you’re reminded of those warm summer afternoons spent celebrating freedom and friendship. Get ready to impress your guests with this delightful side at your next barbecue!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Memorial Day Cucumber Tomato Salad is incredibly simple to prepare and makes meal prep a breeze.
- The combination of fresh ingredients creates a vibrant dish that’s visually appealing on any table.
- Its versatile nature allows you to customize it based on what you have on hand.
- Perfect for outdoor picnics or casual family dinners.
I remember the first time I served this at my cousin’s backyard barbecue; everyone went back for seconds—and one brave soul even tried to take the whole bowl home!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Cucumbers: Choose firm cucumbers for crunch; English cucumbers work wonderfully but any variety will do.
- Ripe Tomatoes: Look for juicy tomatoes at their peak ripeness to enhance flavor; heirloom varieties are especially tasty.
- Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a zesty bite; soak it in cold water beforehand if you want to mellow its sharpness.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley brightens up flavors while adding freshness; feel free to swap in basil if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for richness; it’s worth splurging on quality here.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Choose high-quality balsamic vinegar for depth of flavor; it balances beautifully with the veggies.
- Salt and Pepper: These basic seasonings elevate all flavors—don’t skip them!
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the entire dish; it’s like sunshine in a bowl!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Prep Your Veggies: Start by washing all your vegetables thoroughly under cool water. Slice cucumbers into thin rounds and chop tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
Slice That Onion: Thinly slice your red onion and soak it in cold water for about 10 minutes if you want to tone down its bite—trust me, your guests will thank you.
Mix It Up: In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and chopped parsley. Toss gently until everything is nicely mixed—like old friends reunited after years apart.
Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined. This dressing is where the magic happens!
Pour It On: Drizzle the dressing over your veggie medley and toss again gently until everything is coated evenly—a little dance of flavor awaits!
Chill Out: Cover your salad with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld—you’ll be rewarded later!
This Memorial Day Cucumber Tomato Salad not only brings zest but also celebrates all things fresh! Serve it alongside grilled chicken or veggie skewers for an unforgettable meal that embodies summer vibes!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- This delightful Memorial Day Cucumber Tomato Salad bursts with fresh flavors.
- Remember to use ripe tomatoes and crisp cucumbers for the best texture.
- A sprinkle of salt enhances the taste, making each bite refreshing and satisfying.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by chopping the cucumbers and tomatoes; mix them in a bowl. Next, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, and seasonings before combining everything for optimal flavor blending.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in your favorite herbs, such as basil or parsley, for a unique twist. Avocado or bell peppers can add creaminess or crunch, respectively, making it your own.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Avoid reheating; this salad is best enjoyed cold and fresh to maintain its crunch.
Memorial Day always brings back fond memories of our family cookouts, where this salad stole the show every time I made it. Friends would ask for seconds!
FAQ
What vegetables work well in Memorial Day Cucumber Tomato Salad?
You can add bell peppers, red onions, or even radishes for extra crunch and vibrant colors that enhance the dish.
How can I make Memorial Day Cucumber Tomato Salad more filling?
Consider adding chickpeas or quinoa to turn this refreshing side dish into a hearty meal packed with protein.
Can I prepare Memorial Day Cucumber Tomato Salad in advance?
Yes! Prepare it a few hours ahead but wait until serving to add dressing for maximum freshness and crunch.
Memorial Day Cucumber Tomato Salad
Memorial Day Cucumber Tomato Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish that combines crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes, perfect for summer gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves about 4
- Category: Salad
- Method: No cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups cucumbers, sliced
- 2 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and prepare all vegetables: slice cucumbers, chop tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion (soak in cold water for 10 minutes if desired).
- In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and parsley.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well blended.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider including bell peppers or avocados.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days but are best enjoyed fresh.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
