Get ready to transform your ordinary side dish into a culinary masterpiece that will have your taste buds dancing! This Zesty Italian Cucumber Salad is not just another salad – it's a vibrant, refreshing journey through Italian-inspired flavors that will elevate any meal from mundane to magnificent. With its crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a tantalizing dressing that packs a punch, this recipe is about to become your new summer obsession. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick, healthy side dish, this cucumber salad promises to be the star of your table!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cucumbers, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash all fresh produce thoroughly under cool running water. Pat dry the cucumbers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes with clean paper towels.
- Using a sharp knife, slice cucumbers into thin, uniform rounds approximately 1/8 inch thick. For a more decorative look, you can create slightly diagonal cuts.
- Thinly slice the red onion into delicate half-moon shapes, ensuring pieces are translucent and not too thick.
- Carefully halve the cherry tomatoes, cutting them from stem to bottom to create attractive, symmetrical pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to create a vibrant dressing.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the vegetable mixture, gently tossing to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld and develop, enhancing the overall taste profile.
- Before serving, give the salad a final gentle toss and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish.
Tips
- Cucumber Selection: Choose firm, fresh cucumbers with smooth, vibrant skin. English or Persian cucumbers work best for a more delicate texture.
- Slicing Technique: Use a sharp knife and slice cucumbers uniformly to ensure even marination and a professional presentation.
- Flavor Infusion: Allow the salad to rest in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before serving. This crucial step lets the dressing penetrate the vegetables, intensifying the overall flavor.
- Vinegar Variation: For a twist, experiment with different vinegars like balsamic or white wine vinegar to customize the taste.
- Fresh is Best: Use freshly ground black pepper and high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the salad's authentic Italian flavor.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This salad can be prepared a few hours in advance, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
- Serving Suggestion: For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
