I absolutely love the fresh flavors of McAlister’s Cucumber Tomato Salad. There’s something about the crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes tossed in that perfectly balanced dressing that makes it a standout side dish. Whenever I visit McAlister’s, it’s always one of my go-to choices.
But instead of ordering it every time, I thought, why not bring this delicious salad into my own kitchen? With a few simple ingredients and a touch of homemade magic, you can enjoy this vibrant salad anytime. Let’s dive into my copycat recipe that captures all the goodness of the original.
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers – thinly sliced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes – halved
- 1 small red onion – thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley – chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill – chopped
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper – to taste
- Optional:1/4 cup sliced black olives for added flavor
Instructions
Recreating this delicious McAlister’s copycat salad is simple. Follow these steps to assemble your fresh cucumber tomato salad.
Prep Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Cucumbers | 2 medium | Wash and slice thinly |
| Cherry Tomatoes | 1 pint | Halve |
| Red Onion | ½ | Thinly slice |
| Cheddar Cheese | 1 cup | Grate |
| Feta Cheese | ½ cup | Crumble |
| Fresh Parsley | 2 tablespoons | Chop |
Prepare Dressing
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | 1 cup | – |
| Apple Cider Vinegar | 2 tablespoons | – |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon | – |
| Garlic Powder | ½ teaspoon | – |
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and garlic powder until smooth and well combined.
Combine Salad
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Sliced Cucumbers | From Prep Ingredients | – |
| Halved Cherry Tomatoes | From Prep Ingredients | – |
| Sliced Red Onion | From Prep Ingredients | – |
| Prepared Dressing | From Prepare Dressing | – |
| Grated Cheddar Cheese | From Prep Ingredients | – |
| Crumbled Feta Cheese | From Prep Ingredients | – |
| Chopped Fresh Parsley | From Prep Ingredients | – |
| Black Olives (Optional) | ½ cup | Sliced |
In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat. Sprinkle in the grated cheddar cheese, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh parsley. If desired, add sliced black olives for an extra burst of flavor. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Tools And Equipment
To master McAlister’s Cucumber Tomato Salad copycat recipe, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what I use in my kitchen:
- Cutting Board: A sturdy surface for chopping cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions.
- Chef’s Knife: Essential for precise slicing and dicing of fresh ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure accurate measurements for the dressing components.
- Mixing Bowls: A large bowl for combining the salad and a small one for the dressing.
- Whisk: Perfect for blending the mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and garlic powder into a smooth dressing.
- Salad Tongs: Helps in tossing the salad evenly with the dressing without making a mess.
- Grater: If you prefer freshly grated cheddar cheese, a grater is handy.
- Storage Containers: Ideal for keeping any leftovers fresh in the refrigerator.
- Paring Knife: Useful for any fine chopping or peeling tasks.
Having these tools on hand will streamline the preparation process and help you achieve that perfect, restaurant-quality salad at home.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing your McAlister’s Cucumber Tomato Salad ahead of time can save you valuable minutes, especially during busy days. Here are my top tips to ensure your salad stays fresh and delicious:
1. Prep Ingredients Separately
- Cucumbers: Slice and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keeping them separate prevents them from becoming soggy.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Wash, halve, and keep them in a covered bowl. Adding them just before serving maintains their juiciness.
- Red Onion: Thinly slice and store in a separate container. This keeps the flavors sharp and fresh.
- Cheeses: Grate the cheddar and crumble the feta in advance. Store them in separate containers to preserve their textures.
2. Prepare the Dressing in Advance
Whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and garlic powder. Transfer the dressing to a mason jar or airtight container and refrigerate. Shake well before tossing with the salad to ensure the ingredients are well combined.
3. Store Components Properly
Use separate airtight containers for each component of the salad. Label them to keep track of when each was prepared. This organization helps maintain the integrity of each ingredient until you’re ready to assemble.
4. Assemble Just Before Serving
To keep the salad fresh, combine all ingredients and the dressing right before serving. This ensures that the vegetables remain crisp and the flavors vibrant.
5. Portioning and Storage
If you’re preparing the salad for multiple meals, portion the ingredients into individual containers. Keep the dressing in a separate small container for each portion. This method allows you to grab and serve the salad quickly without compromising on taste or texture.
6. Add Optional Ingredients Last
If you’re including black olives or fresh herbs like parsley, add them just before serving. This prevents them from becoming mushy and preserves their robust flavors.
By following these make-ahead tips, you can enjoy a fresh and flavorful McAlister’s Cucumber Tomato Salad anytime without the hassle of last-minute preparation.
Serving Suggestions
Once I’ve perfected my McAlister’s Cucumber Tomato Salad, I love exploring different ways to serve it that highlight its fresh flavors and vibrant colors. Here are some of my favorite serving ideas:
Pair with Grilled Proteins
Grilling adds a smoky depth that complements the crispness of the salad. Serve alongside:
- Grilled Chicken Breasts: Marinated in lemon and herbs for a light, zesty contrast.
- BBQ Ribs: The tangy barbecue sauce pairs beautifully with the creamy dressing.
- Steak Skewers: Juicy and tender, perfect for a hearty meal.
Add as a Side to Sandwiches and Wraps
This salad enhances any handheld meal with its refreshing crunch. Try it with:
- Turkey Club Sandwiches: The layers of turkey, bacon, and lettuce work well with the salad’s ingredients.
- Veggie Wraps: Add a burst of flavor and texture to vegetarian options.
- Pulled Pork Sandwiches: The sweetness of the tomatoes balances the savory meat.
Enhance Your Picnic Spread
Pack the salad in airtight containers for a delightful addition to any outdoor meal. It stays fresh and vibrant, making it perfect for:
- Picnics in the Park: Easy to transport and enjoy with friends and family.
- Beach Trips: Refreshing and light, ideal for warm days by the water.
- Backyard Barbecues: A crowd-pleaser that complements grilled dishes.
Elevate Your Appetizer Tray
Serve the salad in small portions as part of a larger appetizer selection. Presentation tips include:
- Individual Mason Jars: Layer the ingredients for a portable and stylish option.
- Mini Cups or Bowls: Perfect for easy grabbing and serving at parties.
- On Lettuce Leaves: Create elegant bites by placing the salad on crisp lettuce cups.
Customize with Extra Toppings
Take the salad to the next level by adding your favorite toppings. Consider:
- Toasted Nuts: Add crunch and a nutty flavor with almonds or walnuts.
- Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado pairs wonderfully with the tangy dressing.
- Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle additional parsley or basil for an extra burst of freshness.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Prepare multiple servings in advance to enjoy throughout the week. Tips for meal prepping:
- Separate Components: Keep the dressing and optional ingredients like olives and herbs apart until ready to serve.
- Use Airtight Containers: Maintain freshness by storing each component separately.
- Portion Control: Divide the salad into individual servings for convenient grab-and-go options.
By experimenting with these serving suggestions, you can enjoy my copycat McAlister’s Cucumber Tomato Salad in a variety of delicious and creative ways. Whether it’s accompanying your favorite grilled dishes or enhancing your meal prep routine, this versatile salad is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Conclusion
Making McAlister’s Cucumber Tomato Salad at home has been such a rewarding experience for me. There’s something special about enjoying a favorite restaurant dish with the fresh ingredients you choose yourself.
I love how easy it is to prepare and how customizable it can be. Whether you’re serving it for a family meal or bringing it to a gathering, it’s always a hit.
Trying out this copycat recipe has definitely become a new favorite in my kitchen. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do!
