This Creamy Cucumber and Tomato Salad is a refreshing and light dish that combines the crisp coolness of cucumbers with the juicy sweetness of tomatoes, all coated in a creamy and tangy dressing. It’s a simple yet satisfying salad that is perfect as a side dish for barbecues, picnics, or a light lunch. The cucumbers are typically sliced or diced, providing a refreshing crunch, while the tomatoes are usually cut into bite-sized pieces, releasing their sweet and slightly acidic juices. The creamy dressing is the element that ties these fresh vegetables together, often made with mayonnaise or sour cream as a base, along with vinegar (such as white vinegar or apple cider vinegar) for a tangy kick, and a touch of sugar or honey to balance the acidity. Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives are frequently added to the dressing for a bright, herbaceous flavor. Seasonings such as salt, pepper, and sometimes a hint of garlic powder or onion powder enhance the overall taste. This salad is quick to prepare and is best served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to remain crisp. The creamy dressing coats the vegetables beautifully, creating a satisfying and flavorful dish that is both hydrating and delicious. Variations can include adding other vegetables like red onion for a bit of sharpness, bell peppers for color and crunch, or even crumbled feta cheese for a salty and tangy contrast. However, the core of cucumbers, tomatoes, and a creamy, tangy dressing remains the essence of this classic salad.
The texture of this Creamy Cucumber and Tomato Salad is a delightful combination of crisp and juicy. The cucumbers provide a refreshing crunch, while the tomatoes offer a soft and juicy burst of flavor. The creamy dressing coats the vegetables, adding a smooth and luscious element. If red onion or bell peppers are included, they contribute an additional layer of crispness. The overall texture is light, refreshing, and satisfying.
The flavor profile is a balance of fresh, slightly sweet, and tangy notes. The cucumbers have a mild and refreshing taste, while the tomatoes offer a natural sweetness with a hint of acidity. The creamy dressing provides a tangy base, often with a touch of sweetness to balance the vinegar. Fresh herbs like dill and parsley add a bright and herbaceous flavor that complements the vegetables beautifully. The seasonings of salt and pepper enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Creamy Cucumber and Tomato Salad is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses, especially grilled meats, poultry, and fish. It’s a popular choice for summer gatherings, potlucks, barbecues, and picnics due to its refreshing nature and ease of preparation. It can also be enjoyed as a light lunch on its own.
The preparation of Creamy Cucumber and Tomato Salad involves chopping the cucumbers and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces and then tossing them with a creamy and tangy dressing. The dressing is typically made by whisking together mayonnaise or sour cream, vinegar, sugar or honey, fresh herbs, and seasonings in a separate bowl. Once the dressing is smooth, it is poured over the chopped vegetables and gently mixed to ensure everything is well coated. The salad is then usually chilled in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
Ingredients:
- 3 small cucumbers, peeled and sliced or diced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes or 2-3 medium tomatoes, halved or diced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise or sour cream
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar or honey (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill, parsley, or chives (or a combination)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- Optional: 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- Optional: 1/2 bell pepper (any color), diced
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder or onion powder
Equipment:
- Medium mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or fork
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables: Wash the cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly. Peel the cucumbers if desired, and then slice or dice them into bite-sized pieces. Halve or dice the tomatoes into similar-sized pieces. If using red onion or bell pepper, prepare them as directed.
- Make the Creamy Dressing: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise or sour cream, vinegar, sugar or honey, chopped fresh herbs, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder or onion powder (if using). Whisk until the dressing is smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust the seasonings (vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper) according to your preference.
- Combine Vegetables and Dressing: Add the sliced or diced cucumbers and tomatoes (and any other optional vegetables) to the bowl with the creamy dressing. Gently toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the salad to chill. Chilling also helps the cucumbers and tomatoes retain their crispness.
- Serve: Before serving, give the salad another gentle toss. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish.
Enjoy this simple and delicious Creamy Cucumber and Tomato Salad!