She Strengthens

Summer’s Sweetest Salad

As the sun shines bright, our taste buds crave refreshing, light, and flavorful dishes. This summer salad, inspired by Rachael Ray, is the perfect solution. With its harmonious blend of ripe plum tomatoes, crunchy red onions, and cool cucumbers, it’s sure to become a staple at your next outdoor gathering.

The Star of the Show: Fresh, Seasonal Ingredients

To make this salad truly unforgettable, it’s essential to choose the ripest, peak-season tomatoes you can find. Their natural sweetness will elevate the entire dish, making it a true showstopper.

A Vinaigrette with a Twist

In a screw-top jar, combine 1 teaspoon of red wine vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika, a pinch of kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil. Shake vigorously, then taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Alternatively, whisk the ingredients together in a small bowl, gradually adding the oil until well combined.

Assembling the Salad

In a medium bowl, combine 5 medium ripe plum tomatoes, halved lengthwise, seeded, and thinly sliced; 1/4 medium red onion, peeled, halved lengthwise, and thinly sliced; and 1 small unwaxed Persian cucumber, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced. Add the vinaigrette and toss to combine. Let the flavors meld together at room temperature for about 20 minutes. Just before serving, give the salad a quick re-toss.

A Perfect Pairing

This salad pairs beautifully with lighter dishes, such as our salmon salad recipe. It’s an ideal combination for your next picnic or potluck.

Recipe Details

Yields: 4 servings
Difficulty: Easy
Total Time: 30 minutes
Active Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 5 medium ripe plum tomatoes
• 1/4 medium red onion
• 1 small unwaxed Persian cucumber (or 1/2 an English cucumber)