Ingredients:
- 250 g Cucumbers
- 1 small Bell Pepper (Peperoni)
- 150 g Onions
- 1 tsp Salt
- 450 g Tomatoes
- Fresh Parsley
For the dressing:
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 30 ml Oil
- 30 ml Freshly squeezed Lemon Juice
Preparation:
Step 1: Preparing the onions and vegetables
Start by peeling the onions. Cut them in half and slice them thinly into rings. Once sliced, sprinkle the onions with salt and pepper to season them, and let them rest for a few minutes. The resting time allows the onions to release some of their sharpness, which will make them taste milder once added to the salad. After a few minutes, rinse the onions under cold water to remove any excess salt and pepper, then press them gently to remove any remaining water. This will ensure the onions don’t make the salad too watery.
Step 2: Preparing the other vegetables
Next, prepare the tomatoes. Cut them in half and remove the seeds, as the seeds can make the salad too watery. After removing the seeds, dice the tomatoes into small cubes. This step ensures that you have the perfect texture for the salad and helps keep it light and fresh.
Peel the cucumber, then slice it in half lengthwise. Use a teaspoon to carefully remove the seeds from the cucumber halves, which are often too soft and watery for this type of salad. After removing the seeds, cut the cucumber into small cubes, similar to the tomatoes. The combination of cucumbers and tomatoes will provide a refreshing base for your salad.
For the bell pepper (or peperoni), carefully remove the seeds and slice it into small cubes as well. Bell peppers add a nice crunch and a bit of sweetness, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes and the sharpness of the onions.
Finally, chop the fresh parsley finely. Fresh herbs like parsley add a burst of flavor and a touch of color to your salad, making it even more appealing and tasty.
Step 3: Mixing the salad
Now that all the vegetables are prepared, it’s time to assemble your salad. Place all the chopped ingredients (onions, tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and parsley) into a large bowl. This mix of fresh vegetables will form the base of your salad, and the different textures and flavors will make every bite a delight.
Step 4: Preparing the dressing
In a small bowl, prepare the dressing. Mix the fresh lemon juice with the oil. The lemon juice will give the salad a tangy and refreshing taste, while the oil will provide a smooth texture and help bring all the flavors together. Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste. The lemon juice will brighten the salad, and the seasoning will enhance the natural flavors of the fresh vegetables.
Step 5: Dressing the salad
Pour the dressing over the chopped vegetables and toss everything together gently. The dressing will coat all the ingredients, infusing them with a delicious and tangy flavor. Make sure to mix everything thoroughly so that the salad is evenly seasoned.
Final Step: Serving and enjoying
Once the salad is well mixed, it’s ready to be served! This salad is quick to make, yet bursting with fresh flavors. It makes for a perfect side dish at any meal, whether you’re serving grilled meats, fish, or enjoying it on its own as a light and refreshing lunch. The combination of cucumbers, tomatoes, and peppers gives the salad a satisfying crunch, while the onions and parsley add depth and freshness.
For an extra burst of flavor, feel free to garnish the salad with additional herbs, such as more parsley or even a few sprigs of fresh basil. You can also add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for added richness.
Tips for enhancing your salad:
- For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding a handful of crumbled feta cheese or even some olives for a Mediterranean twist.
- If you like a bit of heat, you can add a finely chopped chili pepper along with the bell pepper to spice things up.
- This salad can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld together even more. Just be sure to add the dressing shortly before serving to keep the vegetables fresh and crunchy.
Conclusion:
This simple yet delicious cucumber and tomato salad with fresh herbs is not only quick to prepare but also packed with nutrients and flavor. Whether you are preparing it for a family gathering, a light lunch, or as a refreshing side dish to accompany your main course, it’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy the bright, fresh flavors of summer all year round with this easy-to-make recipe!
