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Fresh Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe with Easy Balsamic Glaze Dressing

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A fresh and vibrant salad featuring crisp cucumbers and ripe tomatoes, tossed in a sweet and tangy homemade balsamic glaze. Perfect for quick summer meals and easy to customize.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced (English cucumbers preferred)
  • 3 large ripe tomatoes, chopped (Roma or vine-ripened)
  • ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • ½ cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vegetables (10 minutes): Peel and thinly slice the cucumbers. Chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces, removing excess seeds if watery. Thinly slice the red onion and roughly chop the basil leaves. Combine all in a large mixing bowl and season lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Make the Balsamic Glaze (about 10 minutes): Pour balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan over medium heat. Add honey or maple syrup, olive oil, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Reduce until thickened and coats the back of a spoon (8-10 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  3. Toss and Combine (5 minutes): Drizzle about two-thirds of the glaze over the vegetables. Toss gently to coat evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more glaze. Optionally, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
  4. Chill and Serve (Optional, 10 minutes): Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to let flavors meld. Toss gently before serving and drizzle remaining glaze on top.

Notes

Use English or Persian cucumbers for fewer seeds and less bitterness. Reduce balsamic vinegar gently to avoid burning. Drain excess tomato juice to prevent watery salad. The glaze can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week. For vegan option, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. Optional additions include fresh mint, dill, or cheese like feta or mozzarella for extra flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, tomato salad, balsamic glaze, summer salad, easy salad, fresh salad, vegetarian, gluten-free, healthy side dish

Find it online: https://sweetstirring.com/fresh-cucumber-tomato-salad-recipe-with-easy-balsamic-glaze-dressing/