THE RECIPE JOURNAL · Side Dish
Grandma Jane's Enhanced Tomato and Cucumber Salad
This refreshing salad combines juicy tomatoes and crisp cucumbers with a zesty homemade dressing that brings out the best flavors. It’s a simple, healthy dish perfect for warm days or as a vibrant side to any meal.
FROM THE KITCHEN • Grandma Jane's Enhanced Tomato and Cucumber Salad
01 THE RECIPE
Let's make it.
Follow these steps for a delicious result. Tick off each step as you go.
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01
Step 1
Start by cooking the bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Turn it now and then until it’s nicely browned, which should take about 10 minutes. Once it’s done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool. When it’s cool enough to handle, crumble the bacon into a big salad bowl.
02
Step 2
Spoon out about a tablespoon of the bacon drippings and set it aside to cool. Mix the drippings and mayonnaise into the crumbled bacon until everything is well combined. Then, add the chopped tomatoes and cucumbers, giving it all a good stir.
03
Step 3
Season the salad with kosher salt, a five-peppercorn blend, and a pinch of cumin to your liking. For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving—if you can wait overnight, even better!
Why you’ll love it
This salad combines fresh, crunchy cucumbers with juicy, ripe tomatoes for a burst of natural flavor. The addition of herbs and a tangy dressing makes it bright and refreshing. It’s a perfect side dish that feels both comforting and light.
How to serve
Serve this salad chilled alongside grilled meats or fish for a balanced meal. It also pairs well with crusty bread or as a topping for sandwiches. Adding some crumbled feta or olives can give it a Mediterranean twist.
Storage & leftovers
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best eaten within 1-2 days to keep the vegetables crisp. If it releases too much liquid, drain some before serving to maintain its fresh texture.
