Looking for a light yet satisfying meal that combines the richness of beef with the crispness of fresh vegetables? This chopped beef and cucumber salad is the answer. It’s perfect for warm days when you want something healthy and flavorful without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Imagine tender pieces of beef paired with crunchy cucumbers, bright herbs, and a zesty dressing that brings everything together. This dish is not only refreshing but also packed with protein, making it a great choice for a quick lunch or dinner.
This recipe is all about balance – the savory beef, the cool crunch of cucumbers, and a tangy dressing that keeps it interesting. It’s a delightful way to enjoy a hearty meal without feeling weighed down.
Ingredients That Shine
The foundation of a delightful chopped beef and cucumber salad lies in the quality of its ingredients.
Freshness is key, especially when it comes to the vegetables.
A large cucumber, diced into bite-sized pieces, adds that crisp texture, while halved cherry tomatoes bring a pop of color and sweetness to the dish.
Of course, the star ingredient is the beef.
Using tender cuts like flank steak or sirloin, cooked to perfection, ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.
Adding fresh herbs, like parsley, not only enhances the taste but also brightens the overall presentation of the salad.
Crafting the Dressing
The dressing is what ties all the elements together.
A light combination of olive oil, red wine vinegar, and Dijon mustard creates a zesty flavor profile that complements the richness of the beef.
This dressing should be whisked until well combined, ensuring that every ingredient is perfectly blended.
Seasoning with salt and pepper is essential.
It brings all the flavors to life, making the salad not just refreshing but also satisfying.
Effortless Preparation
Preparing this salad is a breeze.
Start by chopping the cooked beef into bite-sized pieces, ensuring that each piece is easy to eat.
Next, dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion.
Gather these fresh components in a large bowl, and it’s time to add the parsley.
This vibrant green herb not only adds flavor but also an appealing visual contrast to the rich colors of the beef and vegetables.
Combining the Elements
With all the ingredients laid out, the next step is to bring them all together.
Drizzle the freshly made dressing over the salad mixture, ensuring that every piece of vegetable and meat is coated.
Gently toss the ingredients to combine, being careful not to crush the delicate tomatoes or cucumbers.
At this stage, tasting is essential.
Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper to suit your palate, enhancing the salad’s flavors even further.
A Bright Presentation
The presentation of your salad can elevate the dining experience.
Serve the salad in a rustic bowl that showcases the vibrancy of the ingredients.
The bright colors of the beef, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes create a visually appealing dish that invites everyone to dig in.
Setting the salad on a wooden table in a sunlit kitchen adds to the warm, inviting atmosphere.
Pairing the dish with simple side options or crusty bread can round out a lovely meal.
Nutrition and Enjoyment
This salad not only delights the senses but also nourishes the body.
With approximately 320 calories per serving, it strikes a balance between indulgence and health.
The protein from the beef, combined with the fresh vegetables, provides a satisfying meal without feeling heavy.
Whether enjoyed as a quick lunch or a light dinner, this chopped beef and cucumber salad is a versatile dish that can be savored any time of the year.
It celebrates fresh ingredients while delivering on flavor and nourishment.
Chopped Beef and Cucumber Salad
This chopped beef and cucumber salad features succulent beef, fresh cucumbers, and vibrant herbs, tossed in a light dressing. The flavors meld beautifully, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite, making it a go-to recipe for warm weather.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked beef, chopped (such as flank steak or sirloin)
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Chop the cooked beef into bite-sized pieces. Dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and slice the red onion.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Combine the Salad: In a large bowl, add the chopped beef, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley. Drizzle the dressing over the top.
- Toss and Serve: Gently toss the salad until everything is evenly coated. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed, and serve immediately.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
