Tomato And Cucumber Salad
A vibrant, refreshing salad combining juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and hard-boiled eggs, perfect for light lunches or summer gatherings with a hint of spice and tang.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the tomatoes, cucumbers, onion, celery, and hard-boiled eggs thinly.
- Layer the sliced ingredients in a salad bowl, omitting the onion if not liked.
- Add a dash of cayenne pepper, salt, and vinegar to taste.
- Toss gently to combine and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using heirloom tomatoes for a variety of colors and tastes. If you want a crunchier texture, add bell peppers or radishes. For a creamier dressing, mix in some yogurt or sour cream. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can enhance the salad's freshness. If you're preparing this for a picnic, consider using a jarred vinaigrette instead of vinegar to prevent sogginess.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Tomato and Cucumber Salad as a refreshing side dish with grilled meats or fish. It pairs beautifully with Mediterranean recipes, such as Crostini or Roasted Cauliflower. For a light lunch, add some protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas. Garnish with fresh herbs for a vibrant presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best to keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain the freshness of the vegetables. To enjoy it again, simply toss the salad together with fresh ingredients. Avoid reheating as the salad is best served cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato And Cucumber Salad contains roughly 238 calories, with 5g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (55% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 504mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
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?
Yes, you can prepare the vegetables a few hours in advance. However, it's best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the ingredients crisp and fresh. If you want to make it the night before, consider storing the dressing separately and combining it right before serving.
What can I substitute for hard-boiled eggs?
If you want a vegan option, consider using avocado slices or chickpeas for creaminess and protein. For a different flavor, crumbled feta cheese can also be a delicious alternative, adding a salty kick to the salad.
How can I make this salad spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or incorporate diced jalapeños. You could also drizzle a bit of hot sauce over the top before serving. For a smoky flavor, try adding smoked paprika for an interesting twist.
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).