Insalata di Pomodori e Cetrioli: A Refreshing Italian Salad Recipe

Table of Contents

Toggle

Insalata di Pomodori

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Course Salad

Cuisine Italian

Equipment

• Equipment Needed
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Serving bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Whisk or Fork (for dressing)

Ingredients

  

• Ingredients
• For the Salad:
• 4 ripe tomatoes diced (any variety you prefer)
• 2 medium cucumbers diced (English cucumbers are great for their crunch)
• 1 small red onion thinly sliced (optional)
• A handful of fresh basil leaves torn or chopped
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
• For the Dressing:
• 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar or lemon juice for a different twist
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or fresh if available
• A pinch of sugar optional, to balance acidity

Instructions

 

• Step-by-Step Method
• Prepare the Vegetables:
• Start by washing your tomatoes and cucumbers thoroughly. Dice the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces and slice the cucumbers. If you’re using red onion, slice it thinly.
• Mix the Salad:
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion. Toss gently to mix the vegetables.
• Add Fresh Herbs:
• Add the torn basil leaves to the salad mixture, and sprinkle with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
• Make the Dressing:
• In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, and a pinch of sugar if desired. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste.
• Combine:
• Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all the vegetables evenly.
• Let it Stand:
• Allow the salad to sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This lets the flavors meld beautifully.
• Serve:
• Transfer the salad to a serving bowl and enjoy!
• Variations
• Add Feta or Mozzarella: Crumbled feta cheese or diced fresh mozzarella can add a delightful creaminess to the salad.
• Change Up the Greens: Consider adding arugula or mixed greens for added texture and flavor.
• Herb Substitutions: If you don't have fresh basil, parsley or mint can also work wonderfully.
  

Keyword Insalata, Insalata di Pomodori

Insalata di Pomodori e Cetrioli, or Tomato and Cucumber Salad, is a classic Italian dish that perfectly embodies the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. It’s fresh, vibrant, and incredibly easy to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for warm weather or as a side dish to any meal. From my own personal experience, this salad not only complements grilled meats beautifully but also serves as a refreshing stand-alone dish. The combination of juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and fragrant herbs creates a medley of flavors that will transport you to the sunny Italian countryside. Let me show you how I make this delightful salad.

Notes on What to Expect

You can expect a vibrant and colorful dish that bursts with fresh flavors. The crunch of the cucumbers paired with the sweetness of the tomatoes and the aromatic basil will create a delicious balance. This salad is a great way to showcase the quality of your ingredients, so don’t skimp on freshness.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
• Time to Stand: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Ease of Cooking: Easy
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 150 calories per serving
• Cost of Ingredients: $8 (costs may vary based on location)
• Cuisine: Italian
• Course: Salad

Equipment Needed

• Cutting Board
• Sharp Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Serving Bowl
• Measuring Spoons
• Whisk or Fork (for dressing)
• > Go here to buy the must-have equipment and ingredients for making a Savory  #Insalata di Pomodori e Cetrioli  here.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 4 ripe tomatoes, diced (any variety you prefer)
• 2 medium cucumbers, diced (English cucumbers are great for their crunch)
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
• A handful of fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

For the Dressing:

• 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (or lemon juice for a different twist)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or fresh if available)
• A pinch of sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• > Go here to buy the must-have equipment and ingredients for making a Savory  #Insalata di Pomodori e Cetrioli  here.

Step-by-Step Method

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • Start by washing your tomatoes and cucumbers thoroughly. Dice the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces and slice the cucumbers. If you’re using red onion, slice it thinly.
2. Mix the Salad:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion. Toss gently to mix the vegetables.
3. Add Fresh Herbs:
   • Add the torn basil leaves to the salad mixture, and sprinkle with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
4. Make the Dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, and a pinch of sugar if desired. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste.
5. Combine:
   • Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all the vegetables evenly.
6. Let it Stand:
   • Allow the salad to sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This lets the flavors meld beautifully.
7. Serve:
   • Transfer the salad to a serving bowl and enjoy!

Variations

• Add Feta or Mozzarella: Crumbled feta cheese or diced fresh mozzarella can add a delightful creaminess to the salad.
• Change Up the Greens: Consider adding arugula or mixed greens for added texture and flavor.
• Herb Substitutions: If you don’t have fresh basil, parsley or mint can also work wonderfully.

Tips

• Choosing Tomatoes: Opt for ripe, seasonal tomatoes for the best flavor. Heirloom varieties can add unique colors and tastes.
• Cucumber Peeling: You can peel the cucumbers if you prefer a less bitter taste or keep the skin for added crunch and nutrients.
• Dressing Adjustments: Feel free to experiment with different vinegars or add minced garlic for an extra kick.

Substitutions for Specific Dietary Needs

• Low-Sodium: Use a low-sodium soy sauce or leave out additional salt to cater to a low-sodium diet.
• Vegan: This recipe is naturally vegan, but ensure all added ingredients (like cheese) meet your dietary preferences.
• > Go here to buy the must-have equipment and ingredients for making a Savory  #Insalata di Pomodori e Cetrioli  here.

Nutritional Information Per Serving

• Calories: 150
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 2g

I hope this guide has made making Insalata di Pomodori e Cetrioli seem a little less daunting, or have you tried it before? Please, be honest, and let me know in the comments below! I like to hear feedback from a real person like you, so please, leave your honest comment!