Refreshing Memorial Day Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe

Memorial Day is the unofficial kick-off to summer, where barbecues reign supreme and everyone’s on the hunt for that perfect side dish. This Memorial Day Cucumber Tomato Salad embodies all things fresh and delightful, bringing together crunchy cucumbers and juicy tomatoes in a dance of color and flavor. Imagine biting into a crisp cucumber slice that crunches like a happy little symphony while being enveloped by the sweet burst of ripe tomatoes—pure bliss!

Growing up, my family had this annual tradition of hosting a huge barbecue every Memorial Day. My aunt would whip up her famous cucumber tomato salad that had everyone asking for seconds (and thirds!). It wasn’t just a dish; it was the star of the show—refreshing and light but packed with flavors that made you feel like summer had arrived. Let’s dive into making this irresistible salad that’s destined to become your go-to recipe for warm-weather gatherings!

Every time I serve this salad, I’m met with smiles and requests for the recipe from family and friends who can’t get enough of its refreshing taste.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Cucumbers: Opt for firm cucumbers; English or Persian varieties work well for their sweetness and crispness.
• Ripe Tomatoes: Choose juicy tomatoes at their peak ripeness; heirloom varieties add great flavor.
• Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a sharp bite; soak in water first to mellow the flavor.
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley brings brightness; use flat-leaf parsley for better flavor.
• Olive Oil: A splash of good-quality olive oil ties everything together beautifully; extra virgin is best.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Adds depth; feel free to swap with apple cider vinegar if preferred.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the natural flavors of the vegetables.

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 your cucumbers and tomatoes under cool water until they sparkle like fresh jewels. Slice them into bite-sized pieces; aim for uniform sizes to ensure even mixing.

Slicing Onions Like a Pro: Next, grab your red onion—slice it thinly like you’re auditioning for a cooking show. If you find yourself tearing up, just remember it’s not personal!

Toss It All Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine your sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions. Gently fold them together as though you’re cradling something precious.

Add Fresh Herbs & Dress It Up: Sprinkle in chopped parsley for some pop! Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the top—go easy on those dressings unless you want a slippery situation.

Season & Serve!: Finally, sprinkle salt and pepper generously but don’t overdo it! Toss everything gently one last time until it’s perfectly combined. Serve immediately or let it chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to intensify those flavors.

With these simple steps completed, you’ve unlocked the secret to serving up an unforgettable Memorial Day Cucumber Tomato Salad! Enjoy every crunchy bite with friends under the sun as laughter fills the air around you.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by chopping the cucumbers and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Mix them gently with the dressing to avoid mushiness.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to add feta cheese or olives for extra flavor. Fresh herbs like basil or dill can also enhance this salad’s freshness.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Avoid reheating; this salad is best served cold.

Sharing this salad at last year’s picnic led to my cousin asking for the recipe—it was a hit! I still chuckle thinking about her enthusiasm for those juicy tomatoes.

FAQ

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance, but add dressing just before serving.

What type of cucumbers should I use?

English cucumbers are great since they’re less bitter and have fewer seeds.

How can I make it more filling?

Add quinoa or chickpeas for protein and create a heartier meal option.

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📖 Recipe Card

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Memorial Day Cucumber Tomato Salad

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• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Enjoy a refreshing blend of crunchy cucumbers and juicy tomatoes in this vibrant salad, perfect for summer gatherings and picnics.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups firm cucumbers, diced
• 2 cups ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Wash cucumbers and tomatoes under cool water; dice them into bite-sized pieces.
2. Thinly slice the red onion; soak in cold water for about 10 minutes to mellow its flavor.
3. In a large bowl, combine the diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions gently.
4. Add chopped parsley and drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Toss all ingredients together lightly to mix well. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

• For added flavor, include feta cheese or olives.
•  Enhance freshness with herbs like basil or dill.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: None
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 60
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg