Tomato Cucumber Salad

Nothing beats the fresh, crisp flavors of a homemade salad, especially during the warmer months. Our Tomato and Cucumber Salad is a simple yet delicious recipe that combines the garden-fresh goodness of Roma tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion with the aromatic touch of fresh oregano. Perfect as a side dish or a light main course, this salad is not only quick to prepare but also packed with vitamins and nutrients. Whether you’re planning a picnic, a barbecue, or a quick family dinner, this refreshing salad will be a hit at your table.

Ingredients

• 5 Roma tomatoes, seeded and sliced
• 1 English cucumber, peeled and sliced
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Tools You’ll Need

• Serving bowl or platter
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork (for mixing the dressing)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • Seed and slice the Roma tomatoes and place them in a large bowl.
   • Peel and slice the cucumbers and add them to the bowl.
   • Thinly slice the red onion and add it to the bowl with the tomatoes and cucumbers.
2. Dress the Salad:
   • Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar over the vegetables.
   • Sprinkle the fresh oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
3. Mix and Marinate:
   • Gently toss the salad to combine all ingredients well.
   • Let the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Serve:
   • Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
   • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
   • Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature.

Betty’s Pro Tips

• Seed the Tomatoes Properly: Removing the seeds from the Roma tomatoes helps reduce excess moisture, keeping your salad crisp and avoiding a soggy texture.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh oregano adds a vibrant, aromatic flavor that dried herbs just can’t match. Feel free to add other fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an extra burst of freshness.
• Slice Uniformly: Ensure that your cucumbers and onions are sliced uniformly for even texture and a more visually appealing salad.
• Let It Marinate: Allow the salad to sit for 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Adjust to Taste: Always taste your salad before serving and adjust the seasoning as necessary. A little extra salt, pepper, or vinegar can make all the difference.