Herb-Infused Cucumber and Tomato Salad
This refreshing Herb-Infused Cucumber and Tomato Salad is the ultimate summer side dish, celebrating the vibrant flavors of homegrown produce. With succulent cherry tomatoes and crisp cucumbers, this dish delights the palate and pays homage to the season's bountiful harvest. The added sweetness from sugar and the tang from red wine vinaigrette create a perfectly balanced dressing, while the fresh basil adds a fragrant touch. Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or as a bright complement to any meal, this salad can be prepared easily and quickly, making it a go-to recipe for any busy kitchen.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cucumbers
2 (Peeled and sliced)
Cherry Tomatoes
2 cups (Halved)
Red Onion
to taste (Thinly sliced (optional))
Sugar or Splenda
1 teaspoon (For sweetness)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (For seasoning)
Red Wine Vinaigrette
1/4 cup (As a dressing (or use Kraft's Zesty Italian))
Fresh Basil
1 teaspoon (Chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
1
Begin by thoroughly washing the cucumbers and cherry tomatoes.
2
Peel the cucumbers and slice them into thin rounds or half-moons.
3
Cut the cherry tomatoes in half and, if desired, slice the red onion into thin rings.
4
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onion (if using).
5
Sprinkle the mixture with the sugar and salt, then gently toss to combine.
6
Pour the red wine vinaigrette (or your chosen dressing) over the vegetables, mixing well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
7
Cover the bowl and let the salad marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
8
Before serving, sprinkle with freshly chopped basil for an aromatic finish. Mix gently, and enjoy your delightful salad!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Herb-Infused Cucumber and Tomato Salad?
It is a refreshing summer side dish made with crisp cucumbers, succulent cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil, perfect for barbecues and picnics.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What are the primary ingredients for this salad?
The main ingredients include 2 cucumbers, 2 cups of cherry tomatoes, red onion, sugar, salt, red wine vinaigrette, and fresh basil.
Do I need to peel the cucumbers?
Yes, the recipe instructions recommend peeling the cucumbers before slicing them into rounds or half-moons.
Can I use a sugar substitute?
Yes, the recipe suggests you can use Splenda instead of regular sugar to add sweetness.
How long should the salad marinate?
The salad should be covered and allowed to marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour to let the flavors meld.
What kind of dressing is recommended?
Red wine vinaigrette is recommended, though you can also use Kraft's Zesty Italian dressing.
Is the red onion a required ingredient?
No, the red onion is optional and can be added to taste.
When should I add the fresh basil?
Freshly chopped basil should be sprinkled over the salad just before serving for an aromatic finish.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this salad is vegan-friendly as it consists of vegetables, herbs, and a vinaigrette-based dressing.
How should I prepare the cherry tomatoes?
The cherry tomatoes should be washed and then cut in half.
Can I make this salad for a picnic?
Yes, it is described as a perfect bright complement for picnics and outdoor meals.
What is the first step in preparing this salad?
The first step is to thoroughly wash the cucumbers and cherry tomatoes.
What shape should I slice the cucumbers into?
You can slice them into thin rounds or half-moons.
How much salt is needed?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of salt for seasoning.
How much red wine vinaigrette is used?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of red wine vinaigrette.
Can I add other herbs besides basil?
While the recipe specifies basil for a fragrant touch, you can experiment with other fresh herbs if desired.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it is categorized as an easy recipe that can be prepared quickly.
What type of tomatoes are best for this dish?
Succulent cherry tomatoes are specifically recommended for their flavor and texture.
Does this salad contain any fat?
The provided data does not list specific nutritional values, but the vinaigrette will contain some fat from oil.
Can I use garden-grown produce?
Absolutely; the recipe is designed to celebrate the vibrant flavors of homegrown summer produce.
How should I cut the red onion?
The red onion should be sliced into thin rings.
How much basil is required?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of freshly chopped basil.
What is the purpose of the sugar?
The sugar provides a touch of sweetness to balance the tang of the vinaigrette.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, since it needs at least an hour to marinate, it is an excellent make-ahead dish.
How do I mix the salad?
Gently toss the vegetables with sugar and salt, then mix well after adding the dressing.
Is this a good side dish for a barbecue?
Yes, it is highly recommended as a side dish for summer barbecues.
What if I don't have red wine vinaigrette?
You can substitute it with Kraft's Zesty Italian dressing as suggested in the recipe.
Should the salad be served cold?
Yes, since it is marinated in the refrigerator for an hour, it is best served chilled.
How many total ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 ingredients in this salad recipe.