Dalmatian-Style Tomato and Cucumber Salad

Ingredients:

• 4 ripe tomatoes, sliced
• 2 cucumbers, sliced
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • Wash and slice the tomatoes into thick rounds.
   • Peel and slice the cucumbers into thin rounds.
   • Thinly slice the red onion and bell pepper (if using).
2. Assemble the Salad:
   • In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, cucumbers, onion, and bell pepper.
3. Make the Dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss the Salad:
   • Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat evenly.
5. Garnish and Serve:
   • Garnish the salad with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately, or let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavours to meld.

Serving Suggestions:

• This fresh salad is perfect as a side dish to grilled meats or fish, particularly with grilled lamb or grilled fish.
• It’s also a great accompaniment to any Dalmatian main dish like Pasticada or Baked Fish.

The combination of ripe tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and fresh herbs, all brought together with the richness of extra virgin olive oil, makes this salad a quintessential Dalmatian dish. It’s refreshing, healthy, and bursting with Mediterranean flavours!