Imagine a salad so simple yet so incredibly delicious that it can turn an ordinary meal into a culinary adventure! This Mediterranean-inspired Cucumber with Lemon and Tomato Salad is not just a side dish—it's a burst of fresh flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and transport you to sun-drenched coastal landscapes. In just 5 minutes, you'll create a vibrant, healthy dish that's perfect for summer gatherings, quick lunches, or as a light and refreshing accompaniment to any main course.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 5 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the cucumber and tomatoes thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully dice the cucumber into small, uniform cubes approximately 1/2 inch in size. Place the diced cucumber in a mixing bowl.
- Rinse the tomatoes and dice them into similar-sized cubes as the cucumber. Add the tomato pieces to the same mixing bowl.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice directly over the cucumber and tomato, ensuring even distribution.
- Drizzle high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the vegetables, coating them gently.
- Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, using a pinch of each for balanced seasoning.
- Using a large spoon, gently toss the ingredients together to ensure the cucumber and tomato are evenly coated with lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Let the salad rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
- Transfer the salad to a serving dish and serve immediately at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Select firm, crisp cucumbers and ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.
- Use High-Quality Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil makes a significant difference in the overall taste of the salad.
- Cut Uniformly: Dice cucumber and tomatoes into similar-sized pieces for a consistent and visually appealing presentation.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the salad to sit for 2-3 minutes helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Serve Immediately: This salad is best enjoyed at room temperature to maximize its fresh, bright flavors.
- Optional Enhancements: Consider adding fresh herbs like mint or parsley for an extra layer of flavor, or sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean touch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
