Spicy Tomato Cucumber Salad with Basil

Instructions:

1. Dice the English cucumber and halve the cherry tomatoes.
2. Place them in a large mixing bowl and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
3. Let them sit for 2 minutes until you see a small amount of liquid pool at the bottom. Note: This prevents the watery bowl syndrome.
4. Pour off the excess liquid from the bowl.
5. Combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper in a small jar.
6. Shake the jar vigorously for 30 seconds until the dressing looks opaque and thickened.
7. Pour the spicy cherry tomato and cucumber salad dressing over the vegetables.
8. Add the sliced red onion and fresh basil.
9. Toss gently with a spoon until every piece is glazed.
10. Fold in the basil at the very end until the leaves are just coated to prevent bruising.