Cucumber Tomato Salad with Dill Fresh and Flavorful

Looking for a fresh and tasty dish? You’ve found it! My Cucumber Tomato Salad with Dill is simple and packed with flavor. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a healthy meal in no time. Whether you serve it as a side or a light lunch, this salad will delight your taste buds. Let’s dive into the details and create something delicious together!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

- 2 medium cucumbers, peeled and diced

- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped

- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

To make a Cucumber Tomato Salad with Dill, you need fresh ingredients. Start with two medium cucumbers. Peel them and dice them into bite-sized pieces. Next, take two cups of cherry tomatoes and cut them in half. The sweetness of these tomatoes adds a great touch. Slice half a red onion thinly for a nice crunch and flavor. Fresh dill brings a bright taste, so chop about a quarter cup for that herbaceous note. If you like, you can add a quarter cup of crumbled feta cheese. It adds a creamy texture and salty flavor.

Dressing Components

- 3 tablespoons olive oil

- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

- Salt and pepper to taste

For the dressing, you need three tablespoons of olive oil to give it richness. Add two tablespoons of red wine vinegar for a tangy kick. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This simple dressing ties the salad together perfectly.

Optional Add-ins

- Additional herbs or vegetables

- Different cheese varieties

You can personalize your salad with optional add-ins. Try using other herbs like basil or parsley. You can also mix in different vegetables, such as bell peppers or radishes, for variety. If you want a different flavor, consider adding other types of cheese, like goat cheese or mozzarella. These choices can make your salad unique and exciting!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Vegetables

How to dice cucumbers To dice cucumbers, start by peeling them. Next, cut off both ends. Slice the cucumber in half lengthwise. Lay each half flat and cut it into thin strips. Finally, turn the strips and cut them into small cubes.

Halving cherry tomatoes To halve cherry tomatoes, simply place them on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife. Slice through the middle of each tomato. This method keeps the juice inside and makes them perfect for the salad.

Slicing red onion For slicing red onion, first peel off the outer layer. Cut the onion in half from top to bottom. Place each half flat on the board. Now, slice thinly from one end to the other. This will give you nice, even slices.

Mixing the Salad

Combining the vegetables in a bowl In a large bowl, add the diced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion. Use a spoon to gently mix them together. This will combine the fresh flavors in one bowl.

Adding dill and feta cheese Next, sprinkle the chopped fresh dill over the mixed vegetables. If you like, add crumbled feta cheese. The dill adds a fresh taste, while feta gives a creamy touch.

Making the Dressing

Whisking olive oil and vinegar In a small bowl, pour in three tablespoons of olive oil. Add two tablespoons of red wine vinegar. Using a whisk, mix these ingredients well. This creates a smooth dressing.

Seasoning with salt and pepper Now, season the dressing with salt and pepper. Start with a pinch of each. Taste it and adjust if needed. This step is key for enhancing all the flavors in your salad.

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices for Fresh Ingredients

- Choosing ripe tomatoes and cucumbers: Look for bright colors and firm skins. Ripe tomatoes should yield slightly when pressed. Choose cucumbers that are firm and smooth for the best crunch.

- Storing fresh dill: Keep dill in a glass of water in the fridge. Cover it loosely with a plastic bag. This keeps it fresh longer.

How to Enhance Flavor

- Marinating time and its benefits: Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes. This helps the flavors mix well. The longer it sits, the more intense the taste.

- Using alternative vinegars: Try balsamic or apple cider vinegar for a twist. These can add a unique flavor to your salad.

Serving Suggestions

- Creative presentation ideas: Serve the salad in a wide, shallow bowl. Add a few sprigs of dill on top for color. You can also layer the ingredients for a fun look.

- Pairing with proteins or breads: This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish. It also goes great with crusty bread for a light meal.

Variations

Seasonal Adaptations

You can change this salad based on what is in season. Try adding fresh bell peppers for a sweet crunch. For a fall twist, include diced squash. You can also swap in other veggies you love. This salad is easy to adapt to your tastes.

Dietary Adjustments

If you want to make this salad vegan, skip the feta cheese. You can still enjoy the flavors without it. For a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free feta. If you're gluten-free, rest assured, this salad is naturally safe. Just check your vinegar to ensure it meets your needs.

Flavor Infusions

Enhance the taste by adding citrus. A squeeze of lemon or lime brightens up the dish. You can also mix in different herbs, like basil or parsley. Each herb brings its own unique flavor, making the salad exciting every time you make it.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

To keep your cucumber tomato salad fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps keep moisture out and flavor in. In the fridge, it lasts about 2–3 days. The longer it sits, the softer the veggies get. If you notice any excess liquid, just drain it before serving.

Freezing Instructions

Can you freeze the salad? Unfortunately, I do not recommend it. Freezing changes the texture of the cucumbers and tomatoes. If you want to freeze, only freeze the chopped dill and other herbs. This way, you can add fresh herbs later.

Pre-Made Salad Tips

Preparing the salad in advance is easy. Just mix the veggies and herbs. Keep the dressing separate. This helps maintain freshness. Dress it right before you serve. It tastes best when everything is fresh.

FAQs

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

You can use several options if you want to swap feta. Good choices include goat cheese, ricotta, or even a dairy-free cheese. These alternatives add creaminess and flavor, just like feta. If you want a stronger taste, try adding blue cheese or even some diced avocado for a creamy texture.

How long can I store the Cucumber Tomato Salad?

You can keep this salad in the fridge for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Over time, the vegetables might get a bit soggy, so enjoy it sooner rather than later for the best taste and crunch.

Can I make this salad a day ahead?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a day ahead. Just remember to keep the dressing separate. Add the dressing right before serving. This keeps the veggies crisp and fresh. If you mix it all together too soon, the salad may become watery.

What other dressings work well with this recipe?

This salad loves different dressings! You can use balsamic vinaigrette for a sweet twist. A lemony dressing adds a bright flavor, too. Try a yogurt-based dressing for creaminess or a spicy vinaigrette for some kick. The options are endless!

Is this salad low in calories?

Yes, this salad is low in calories. It mainly has fresh veggies, which are light and healthy. If you skip the feta, you can cut calories even further. This makes it a great choice for a light lunch or side dish. Enjoy it guilt-free!

This post covered how to make a fresh Cucumber Tomato Salad. You learned about the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. The variations and storage tips ensure this salad is versatile and easy to keep. Remember, you can customize it to suit your taste. Making this salad is simple and rewarding. Enjoy your crunchy, colorful dish as a side or main. Try it out and let your taste buds decide!