Read by Michael Flamel

When faced with a Summer meal featuring crispy, golden-brown southern fried chicken—seasoned to perfection with a chorus of spices—one might wonder, “What salad could possibly hold its own next to this showstopper?”

A good cucumber and tomato salad isn’t just a side dish; it’s the cool, crisp, and refreshing interlude that balances the richness of fried chicken with garden-fresh goodness. And when it comes to seasoning this Summer salad, the world of herbs opens endless possibilities.

But where to start? Some might say basil is the obvious choice. Others will insist on dill for its light, grassy brightness. And let’s not forget parsley, mint, chives, oregano, thyme… The list goes on!

So, dear salad enthusiast, we present you with a customizable recipe—one that lets you decide which herbs will take center stage. As always, we steer clear of mayonnaise, (Because, who wants a heavy dressing when fried chicken is already the main event?) opting instead for a vibrant mix of red wine vinegar and extra virgin olive oil.

Ready to dive in? Let’s chop, mix, and sprinkle our way to Summer salad perfection.

Garden-Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad

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Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy red onion form the base of this ultra-refreshing summer salad. Choose your own herb adventure—Mediterranean basil and oregano, Southern dill and chives, or a cool mint-parsley blend—to customize the flavor profile. Optional feta, goat cheese, or seeds add extra texture and protein, making this salad endlessly versatile for warm-weather meals.

• Author: Don Nicholas
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time (optional): 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4–6 1x
• Category: Salads & Dressings

Ingredients

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• Base Ingredients
  • 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced (Persian or English cucumbers work best)
  • 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Choose Your Herb Adventure:

1. 1. The Classic Route: Basil & Oregano

• • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano
  • Flavor Profile: Mediterranean brightness with a familiar, well-rounded herbaceous note.

1. 2. The Southern Summer Breeze: Dill & Chives

• • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives
  • Flavor Profile: Light, grassy, and almost floral—a perfect complement to a crispy Southern meal.

1. 3. The Refreshing Garden Medley: Mint & Parsley

• • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, torn
  • 1/4 cup flat-leaf parsley, chopped
  • Flavor Profile: Cool and herbaceous with a slightly peppery edge—ideal for those who love contrast.
• Optional Protein Boosters:
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (for a creamy, salty contrast)
  • 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (for a tangy, rich flavor)
  • 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds (for added crunch)

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion.
2. In a small jar or bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and black pepper.
3. Choose your preferred herb combination and sprinkle it over the salad.
4. If adding cheese, gently fold it in at this stage to avoid overmixing.
5. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss lightly to coat everything evenly.
6. Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Beverage Pairings

The best drink pairings complement both the light salad and the crispy, spiced fried chicken:

For Wine Lovers:

• Sauvignon Blanc – Crisp and herbaceous, this white wine enhances the garden-fresh herbs.
• Rosé – A dry, fruity rosé balances the acidity of the vinegar and tomatoes.

For Refreshing Non-Alcoholic Options:

• Iced Sweet Tea with Lemon – A Southern classic that keeps things light and breezy
• Cucumber-Lime Sparkling Water – Adds extra freshness to complement the salad’s bright flavors

For Beer Enthusiasts:

• Wheat Beer or Hefeweizen – Light and citrusy, with a smooth finish
• Pilsner – Crisp and refreshing without overpowering the meal

This Summer salad, like a good Southern meal, is about balance—crispy and fresh, light and flavorful. With herbs as your guide, you can customize it to match your taste and create the perfect pairing for your Summer feast.

Now, tell me—which herbs will you choose? ❖