Moroccan Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Fresh Herbs
This refreshing Moroccan-inspired salad combines the crispness of feggous (or cucumbers) and the sweetness of ripe tomatoes. Brightened with fresh herbs and a zesty dressing made from olive oil and lemon juice, it captures the essence of summer vegetables and the vibrant flavors of Moroccan cuisine. Perfect as a light side dish or a healthy snack, this salad is easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying. Ideal for gatherings, it can be made ahead and allowed to marinate, enhancing the flavors for a truly delightful experience.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cucumber (or feggous)
1 lb (lightly peeled and finely chopped)
Fresh ripe tomatoes
1 lb (peeled, seeded, and chopped)
Fresh parsley or mint
2 tablespoons (chopped)
Onion
2 - 3 teaspoons (finely chopped)
Lemon juice or vinegar
2 tablespoons (none)
Olive oil or vegetable oil
3 tablespoons (none)
Salt
to taste (none)
Pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Moroccan Cucumber and Tomato Salad?
It is a refreshing, traditional Moroccan side dish made with crisp cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, fresh herbs, and a simple zesty dressing.
What are feggous?
Feggous are a type of Moroccan cucumber, often referred to as Armenian cucumbers, known for being long, thin, and having a slightly sweet, crisp flavor.
Can I use regular cucumbers instead of feggous?
Yes, standard garden cucumbers or English cucumbers are excellent substitutes if feggous are unavailable.
How should the cucumbers be prepared?
For this recipe, the cucumbers should be lightly peeled and then finely chopped to ensure a consistent texture.
Do I need to peel the tomatoes for this salad?
Yes, the recipe recommends peeling, seeding, and chopping the tomatoes for the best results.
What types of tomatoes are best to use?
Fresh, ripe tomatoes are ideal for this salad to ensure maximum sweetness and flavor.
Which fresh herbs are used in the recipe?
You can use either fresh parsley or fresh mint, depending on your preference.
Can I use both parsley and mint together?
While the recipe suggests choosing one, combining both can add an extra layer of complexity to the salad's herb profile.
How much onion is required for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 to 3 teaspoons of finely chopped onion to add a subtle bite without overpowering the other ingredients.
What is the base of the salad dressing?
The dressing is a simple mixture of olive oil (or vegetable oil) and lemon juice (or vinegar).
Can I use vinegar instead of lemon juice?
Yes, vinegar can be used as a substitute for lemon juice to provide the necessary acidity.
Is olive oil better than vegetable oil for this dish?
Olive oil is typically preferred for its rich flavor, which complements Moroccan cuisine perfectly.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is entirely vegetarian and vegan-friendly.
Is Moroccan Cucumber and Tomato Salad healthy?
Absolutely, it is made with fresh vegetables, healthy fats, and herbs, making it a low-calorie and nutritious choice.
Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, making it ahead and allowing it to marinate in the refrigerator helps enhance the flavors.
How many ingredients are needed in total?
There are 8 main ingredients: cucumbers, tomatoes, herbs, onion, lemon juice, oil, salt, and pepper.
Is this a seasonal recipe?
While it can be enjoyed year-round, it is considered a classic summer recipe because it features peak-season vegetables.
What category of dish does this fall under?
It is primarily categorized as a salad and a side dish.
Is this recipe difficult for beginners?
No, it is an easy recipe that involves simple chopping and mixing, making it perfect for novice cooks.
How should the vegetables be chopped?
The cucumbers and tomatoes should be finely chopped to allow the dressing to coat every piece evenly.
What makes this salad 'Moroccan' style?
The combination of specific ingredients like feggous, the method of seeding tomatoes, and the use of fresh mint or parsley are staples of Moroccan culinary tradition.
Can I serve this as a snack?
Yes, its light and refreshing nature makes it a great healthy snack option.
Does the recipe include seasoning?
Yes, it uses salt and pepper to taste to bring out the natural flavors of the vegetables.
What is the texture of the salad?
The salad is crisp due to the cucumbers and juicy from the tomatoes, providing a delightful textural contrast.
How much cucumber is used?
The recipe calls for 1 pound of cucumbers or feggous.
How much tomato is used?
The recipe calls for 1 pound of fresh ripe tomatoes.
Is there a specific way to seed the tomatoes?
Typically, you cut the tomato in half and gently squeeze or scoop out the watery seeds to prevent the salad from becoming too soggy.
What is the recommended serving style?
It is best served chilled, often alongside grilled meats or as part of a larger spread of Moroccan salads.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
While fresh herbs are highly recommended for the best flavor, you can use dried herbs in a smaller quantity if necessary, though the taste will be different.