Tomato and cucumber salad

Fresh Tomato and Cucumber Salad: A Simple and Delicious Recipe

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

When looking for a light and refreshing salad, tomato and cucumber salad is always an excellent choice. This simple recipe is not only quick but also full of flavor and nutrients. Perfect as a side dish or as a light main course, our salad will bring a splash of color and freshness to any table. Here’s how to prepare it step by step.

Ingredients:

- 4 ripe tomatoes, preferably from the garden for an intense flavor
- 3 fresh cucumbers, ideally crunchy
- 2 large leaves of green lettuce (you can use romaine or iceberg for texture)
- 1 red onion, for a touch of sweetness
- 1-2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, for a rich taste
- A pinch of salt, to enhance the flavors
- A few drops of lemon juice, for a fresh contrast

Preparation:

1. Start by carefully washing all the vegetables under a stream of cold water. This step is essential to remove any impurities or pesticides, especially if you are using store-bought vegetables.

2. Cut the tomatoes into large cubes or slices, depending on your preference. If you want a more rustic salad, thicker slices will add a nice look.

3. The cucumbers can be sliced into thin rounds or sticks to provide a crunchy texture. If the cucumbers have thick skin, I recommend peeling them partially to avoid bitterness.

4. Red onion is generally sweeter than white onion. Slice it thinly, and if you prefer a milder taste, you can soak it in cold water for 5-10 minutes. This will reduce the intensity and make the onion crunchier.

5. Separate the lettuce leaves and cut them into strips, adding them to the bowl with vegetables.

6. In a large bowl, mix all the cut ingredients, drizzling the olive oil over them. It’s important to use a good quality oil, as it will significantly influence the final taste of the salad.

7. Sprinkle the salt into the mixture and add a few drops of lemon juice, adjusting the amount to your taste. Gently mix to avoid crushing the vegetables, until all the ingredients are evenly coated.

8. Let the salad sit for a few minutes before serving, so the flavors can blend harmoniously.

Serving Suggestions:

For an extra touch of flavor, you can add some green or black olives, crumbled feta cheese, or even a few fresh basil leaves. These will add extra flavor and a special look to your salad.

Variations:

Depending on the season and your preferences, you can experiment with other ingredients. For example, add avocado for creaminess or bell pepper for a splash of color. A tomato and cucumber salad is versatile and can be adapted to everyone’s tastes.

This tomato and cucumber salad is not only a perfect accompaniment for barbecues but also a healthy main dish, ideal for summer days. With a preparation time of just 15 minutes, it is a quick recipe that will pamper you with fresh and tasty flavors without requiring much effort. Enjoy every bite and savor the freshness of the vegetables!