Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe

Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe

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Hello, salad lovers! If you’re looking for a fresh, creamy, and flavorful side dish, this Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad is just the recipe for you. With crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a tangy, herby dressing, this salad is perfect for summer gatherings, BBQs, or just a light, refreshing meal. It’s quick to prepare and brings a delightful balance of textures and flavors to the table. Let’s dive into this easy, delicious recipe that’s sure to become a favorite!

Introduction

Nothing beats the cool, crisp taste of fresh vegetables in a creamy dressing, especially when paired with classic flavors like dill and garlic. This Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad is ideal for summer picnics, backyard cookouts, or just as a tasty, refreshing side to your favorite meal. The combination of creamy dressing with the natural crunch and juiciness of cucumbers and tomatoes makes every bite delightful. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to choice for busy days.

Ingredients

Dressing Ingredients

  • 1/3 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon dried dill
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Cucumber Tomato Salad

  • 2 medium cucumbers, sliced in half lengthwise and then thinly sliced
  • 3 small tomatoes, cut into thin wedges or cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/2 sweet onion, thinly sliced
  • Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste

The ingredients are simple, and you might already have most of them on hand. Feel free to substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version, or add a splash of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors.

How to Make Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad

Follow these steps to create your Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad:

  1. Prepare the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, dried dill, and garlic powder. Stir until smooth and well blended.
  2. Add the Vegetables: Add the sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and sweet onion to the bowl with the dressing. Gently stir to coat all the vegetables evenly.
  3. Season and Serve: Add kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 10-15 minutes before serving for a cooler, more refreshing experience.

Tip: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Helpful Tips

  • Choosing the Right Cucumbers: English or Persian cucumbers are ideal for this salad because they have fewer seeds and a mild, slightly sweet taste.
  • Customize the Dressing: For a tangier flavor, add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to the dressing.
  • Use Fresh Dill: If you prefer a more intense dill flavor, replace the dried dill with fresh dill for a fresher, brighter taste.
  • Add Extra Crunch: If you like a bit of crunch, consider adding some sliced radishes or bell peppers.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad pairs well with grilled meats like chicken, steak, or fish. It also works wonderfully alongside dishes like pasta, grilled vegetables, or burgers. For a full meal, try serving it over a bed of mixed greens or even quinoa for added texture and nutrition.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional benefits of this Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad:

  • High in vitamin C and fiber from fresh cucumbers and tomatoes.
  • Rich in antioxidants due to the fresh vegetables.
  • Provides a balance of protein and fat from the creamy dressing.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 180
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Vitamin A: 6%
  • Vitamin C: 15%
  • Calcium: 4%
  • Iron: 2%

This salad is a light and refreshing option, rich in vitamins and low in carbohydrates, making it a great choice for a balanced diet.

Storage and Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the cucumbers and tomatoes may release moisture over time, slightly thinning the dressing.

Refreshing the Salad: If you have leftovers, consider adding a bit more sour cream or mayonnaise before serving to thicken the dressing again.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, but it’s best to add the dressing right before serving to prevent the cucumbers and tomatoes from becoming too watery.

What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add sliced radishes, bell peppers, or even a handful of arugula for a peppery taste.

Can I use fresh dill instead of dried?
Absolutely! Fresh dill will add a more vibrant flavor. Use about 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill in place of dried.

If you love this salad, you may also enjoy:

Conclusion

There you have it—the perfect Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad for any occasion! This salad is a fantastic way to enjoy fresh, crunchy vegetables with a deliciously creamy dressing. It’s easy to make, refreshing, and pairs well with just about anything. We hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we do. Happy cooking and happy eating!

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