Cucumber tomato salad is a timeless dish loved for its crisp texture, bright flavor, and refreshing simplicity. Whether you’re serving it as a side for grilled meats, a topping for toast, or enjoying it solo as a light lunch, this salad brings together the best of summer vegetables in a quick and easy recipe.
Table Of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Tomato Salad
- Fast and easy: Ready in under 15 minutes.
- Healthy and fresh: Full of hydrating vegetables and heart-friendly olive oil.
- Versatile: Perfect for picnics, potlucks, barbecues, or meal prep.
- Customizable: Easily adjusted to include cheese, herbs, or extra veggies.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
Cucumbers: Use English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers for fewer seeds and thinner skin. Regular slicing cucumbers also work. Just peel and deseed if needed.
Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes, or ripe garden tomatoes are best. Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for the fullest flavor.
Red Onion: Adds a mild sharpness. Soaking sliced onions in cold water for 10 minutes can reduce the bite if you prefer a milder flavor.
Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Basil): Fresh herbs brighten the salad. Parsley gives an earthy note, while basil adds sweetness. You can also use dill or mint.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil provides healthy fats and a smooth finish. Avoid using low-quality oils, as they affect the taste.
Vinegar or Lemon Juice: Red wine vinegar is the most common, but white wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or lemon juice all work well.
Salt and Pepper: Season generously to bring out the flavor of the vegetables.
Optional Add-Ins : Feta cheese or mozzarella balls, Avocado slices, Sliced radishes, Chickpeas or white beans, Olives for a Mediterranean twist
How to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad
Quick Overview
➤ Slice vegetables
➤ Add to bowl and drizzle with dressing
➤ Season and toss
➤ Serve or chill
Step by Step Instructions for making Cucumber Tomato Salad
1. Prep the vegetables
Wash the cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly. Slice cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons, depending on preference. Halve cherry or grape tomatoes, or chop larger tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the red onion.
2. Combine ingredients
Add the sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions to a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
3. Dress the salad
Drizzle with olive oil and your choice of vinegar or lemon juice. Add chopped fresh herbs and toss everything together gently until coated and combined.
4. Taste and adjust
Taste the salad and add more salt, vinegar, or herbs as needed.
5. Serve or chill
You can serve it immediately or refrigerate it for 15 – 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. If making ahead, wait to add herbs until just before serving to keep them fresh.
Additions and Variations
- Greek Style: Add crumbled feta, Kalamata olives, and oregano.
- Creamy Version: Mix in Greek yogurt or sour cream with a bit of garlic and dill.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeño.
- Italian Twist: Add mini mozzarella balls, fresh basil, and a splash of balsamic vinegar.
Helpful Tips for Best Results
- Use ripe, in season produce: The salad depends on the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and the crunch of cucumbers.
- Salt the cucumbers: For extra crispness and to reduce moisture, lightly salt sliced cucumbers and let them sit in a colander for 10 – 15 minutes before assembling the salad.
- Balance the acid: Taste your vinegar or lemon juice. Add it gradually until you get the right tang.
- Avoid over-mixing: Gently toss to avoid breaking down the tomatoes.
How to Store Cucumber Tomato Salad
- In the fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Avoid freezing: The texture of cucumbers and tomatoes becomes mushy once thawed.
If you’re prepping ahead for a party or meal, keep the dressing separate until just before serving to avoid sogginess.
How to Reuse Leftovers
- Add to wraps or sandwiches.
- Top off grilled chicken or fish.
- Spoon over hummus or grain bowls.
- Mix with cooked pasta for a quick salad.
Serving Suggestions
Cucumber tomato salad pairs well with:
- Grilled chicken, steak, or salmon
- Falafel or hummus plates
- Barbecue dishes like ribs or burgers
- Mediterranean mezze platters
- Crusty bread or pita
Nutritional Value (Per Serving, Approximate)
Serving: Per Bowl | Calories: 110 kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 1.5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 0mg | Sodium: 120mg | Fibre: 1.5g
Recipe FAQs
Can I make cucumber tomato salad ahead of time?
Yes, but for best texture, prepare the ingredients ahead and assemble just before serving. The longer it sits, the more moisture is released.
What’s the best vinegar to use?
Red wine vinegar is most common, but lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, or even balsamic can work depending on your taste.
How do I keep cucumbers from getting soggy?
Salting them lightly and letting them drain helps remove excess water.
Can I use Dried herbs instead of fresh?
Fresh herbs are best for flavor and texture. If using dried, use only a small pinch and let it sit in the dressing for a few minutes before tossing.
Is this recipe Keto Friendly?
Yes. With no sugar and low net carbs, it fits into most low-carb or keto meal plans.
