So here we are on the brink of summer, where barbecues rule and the sun shines a little brighter. What better way to celebrate Memorial Day than with a vibrant and refreshing dish like Memorial Day Cucumber Tomato Salad? With its crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes dancing together in a bowl, this salad is practically begging you to take a bite. The flavors burst forth like fireworks on a July night—refreshingly tangy and utterly delightful.
you’re at a sunny picnic surrounded by friends and family, laughter echoing around you as someone dramatically drops their hot dog on the grass (it happens). You reach for a serving of this salad as it glimmers in the sunlight—green cucumbers mingling with ripe red tomatoes, all dressed in a zesty vinaigrette. It’s the perfect balance of crunch and juiciness that makes every bite feel like sunshine on your tongue. Trust me; once you taste it, every gathering will need its own bowl of this deliciousness.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Memorial Day Cucumber Tomato Salad is super simple to prepare, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
- Its fresh flavors will brighten any summer meal.
- The colorful presentation adds flair to your table without requiring gourmet skills.
- Best of all, customize it easily based on your favorite veggies or what’s left in your fridge!
Now let me share something personal—my aunt used to make this salad every year for our family get-togethers. I vividly remember sneaking bites while helping her chop vegetables (okay, maybe I was just munching instead). Everyone loved it so much that there was never any left by the end of the day!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Cucumbers: Choose crisp cucumbers; they add that satisfying crunch we all crave during summer.
- Ripe Tomatoes: Opt for juicy tomatoes that are vibrant in color; they bring sweetness and flavor.
- Red Onion: A small amount adds zest without overpowering; slice them thinly for better distribution.
- Fresh Basil: This herb elevates the flavors; use whole leaves or finely chop them for more intensity.
- Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for an aromatic finish that ties everything together.
- Balsamic Vinegar: A splash gives depth to the dressing; choose aged balsamic for extra richness.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all those fresh flavors; adjust according to taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep the Vegetables: Start by washing your cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly under cool water. Slice cucumbers into half-moons and quarter the tomatoes for even bites.
Add Some Zest: Finely chop your red onion and basil leaves. Toss them into a large mixing bowl with the sliced cucumbers and tomatoes; their sharpness will awaken your senses.
Create the Dressing: In a separate bowl or jar, combine olive oil and balsamic vinegar. A pinch of salt and pepper will help balance the flavors—give it a good whisk or shake until blended.
Toss Everything Together: Drizzle your homemade dressing over the veggies in your mixing bowl. Gently toss everything together so each piece gets coated without squishing those juicy tomatoes.
Let It Marinate: Allow your salad to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. This waiting game lets the flavors meld beautifully—the aroma alone will have everyone gathered around!
Now you’re ready to serve up this masterpiece! Whether it’s at a picnic or alongside grilled chicken at home, this Memorial Day Cucumber Tomato Salad is sure to steal the spotlight—and maybe even some hearts!
So go ahead—dive into summer with this refreshing dish that promises smiles all around!
You Must Know
- Fresh herbs elevate the flavor; try adding basil or parsley for a vibrant taste. he best cucumbers for this salad are English cucumbers; they’re crunchier and have fewer seeds.
- Always chill your salad before serving; it enhances the flavors and adds a refreshing twist.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Chop vegetables first for easy mixing, then whisk together dressing while ingredients chill. This sequence guarantees even flavor distribution and freshness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cherry tomatoes for heirloom varieties or add feta cheese for a creamy texture. Customize it to fit your taste!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. No reheating needed; this salad is best served cold.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use ripe veggies for maximum flavor; they make all the difference in your dish.
- For extra zing, add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving.
- Lastly, avoid over-dressing the salad to keep it fresh and crunchy!
Sharing this recipe always brings back memories of summer picnics with my family, where this salad was a staple on our blanket under the big oak tree.
FAQ
Can I make Memorial Day Cucumber Tomato Salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it a few hours before serving for better flavor infusion.
What other vegetables can I add to this salad?
Consider bell peppers or red onions for extra crunch and color.
Is there a vegan option for the dressing?
Absolutely! Use olive oil and vinegar without any dairy ingredients for a vegan-friendly option.
Memorial Day Cucumber Tomato Salad
Celebrate summer with this refreshing Memorial Day Cucumber Tomato Salad, featuring crisp vegetables and a zesty dressing, perfect for any outdoor gathering.
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cucumbers, sliced
- 2 cups ripe tomatoes, quartered
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash cucumbers and tomatoes under cool water. Slice cucumbers into half-moons and quarter the tomatoes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, quartered tomatoes, chopped red onion, and basil.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Drizzle the dressing over the vegetable mixture and gently toss to coat.
- Let the salad sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
Notes
- For extra crunch, consider adding bell peppers or avocado.
- English cucumbers are a great choice due to their crisp texture and fewer seeds.
- Chill the salad before serving for enhanced freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
