Cucumber Tomato Salad with Cheese

A crisp, refreshing salad with cucumber, juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil or mint, and a touch of cheese. Tossed in a simple balsamic vinaigrette and finished with optional toasted nuts for extra crunch.

Yields: 2 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 English cucumber, sliced into semi-circles

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• ¼ red onion, thinly sliced and halved

• ½ cup fresh basil or mint, chiffonade (thin ribbons)

• ¼ cup cheese of choice grated fresh or cut into small cubes – feta, mozzarella, or Parmesan

Optional:

• a handful of toasted nuts (pine nuts, walnuts, or almonds)

Dressing:

• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 garlic clove, finely minced

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

2. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, basil (or mint), and cheese.

3. Toss with Dressing: Just before serving, pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.

4. Add Crunch: Sprinkle with toasted nuts if Cucumber Tomato Salad with Cheese.