Tomato-Cucumber Salad

Sigh. Yes, I’m on a diet. I’ve committed to losing 20 pounds by March 31. I’m still feeling bitter about it, but I’m hopeful that in a couple of days, after the sugar has worked its way out of my system, I’ll get happier. Or at least more resigned to my fate. I’ve invited my Facebook friends to join in the challenge – or to set a resolution of their own – and we’re cheering each other on at www.facebook.com/susanmallery. Or if you prefer, you can join the challenge at www.susanmallery.com.

So… dieting. That means that for the next three months, I will try to post only reasonably healthy recipes. My hope is that coming up with new recipes will make this fun.

And the truth is, this salad really was kind of fun to create. It was very easy, but it looks beautiful, doesn’t it? We served it with a steamed chicken breast, and I didn’t feel deprived. Much.

Recipe: Tomato-Cucumber Salad

1 large cucumber, sliced thin
2 small, sweet tomatoes, sliced thin
½ small onion, sliced thin
1 T mild vinegar
1 t olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
¼ C Parmesan cheese, shredded
1 T pine nuts

Layer the vegetables on a large plate. Drizzle with vinegar and oil, then add salt and pepper. Allow to marinate at least half an hour. Just before serving, top with cheese and pine nuts.

You can get a printable version of this recipe at www.susanmallery.com/recipes.php.