Oriental Fresh Tomato And Cucumber Salad
A fresh and vibrant Oriental tomato and cucumber salad featuring ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and a savory sesame-soy dressing. Perfect for light meals or sides.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Ensure tomatoes are fully ripe and at room temperature.
- Core and dice the tomatoes to make about 2 cups.
- Peel and halve the cucumber lengthwise; seed and slice to make about 3/4 cup.
- Place tomatoes, cucumbers, and scallions in a medium bowl.
- In a small bowl, combine sesame oil, soy sauce, crushed red pepper, and sugar.
- Pour the dressing over the tomato mixture and toss gently.
- Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For the freshest flavor, use vine-ripened tomatoes and English cucumbers, which have fewer seeds and a smoother skin. If you like more heat, consider adding a dash of sriracha to the dressing. You can substitute the soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option. Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can also enhance the dish's flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or fish, making it an excellent side for summer barbecues. It can also serve as a refreshing starter before heavier dishes. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a bowl of rice or incorporating it into a wrap with grilled chicken or tofu.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to keep it for longer, consider storing the dressing separately and combining it just before serving to maintain the crunch of the vegetables.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oriental Fresh Tomato And Cucumber Salad contains roughly 448 calories, with 4g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (77% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
While the salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the vegetables and dressing separately a few hours in advance. Just combine them right before serving to ensure the cucumbers and tomatoes stay crisp and vibrant.
What variations can I try with this salad?
You can customize this salad by adding ingredients like avocado, bell peppers, or even crumbled feta cheese for added creaminess. For a heartier option, consider mixing in cooked quinoa or chickpeas, which also fit well with the salad's flavors.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this salad is entirely vegan-friendly. All the ingredients, including soy sauce and sesame oil, are plant-based. It's a great option for those looking for light and healthy vegan recipes that are packed with flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).