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Cucumber Tomato Salad: A Refreshing Summer Delight!
When summer gardens are overflowing with crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than with a simple Cucumber Tomato Salad. Light, colorful, and bursting with fresh flavor, this classic salad combines garden vegetables with a bright homemade vinaigrette for a side dish that’s as refreshing as it is effortless. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard barbecue, picnic, potluck, or weeknight dinner, this salad is always a welcome addition to the table.
One of the reasons this recipe has remained a favorite for generations is its simplicity. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and a quick homemade dressing, you can create a healthy dish that complements almost any main course. Every bite delivers crisp cucumbers, sweet tomatoes, crunchy onions, and fresh herbs coated in a tangy dressing that’s perfect for warm weather.
A Summer Staple Worth Making Again and Again
Some recipes never go out of style because they’re built around fresh, seasonal ingredients. This cucumber tomato salad has been enjoyed in countless homes during the summer months, especially when backyard gardens produce more vegetables than anyone knows what to do with.
The combination of juicy tomatoes and cool cucumbers is naturally refreshing, while a simple vinaigrette enhances their flavors without overpowering them. It’s one of those recipes that tastes even better after sitting for a few minutes, allowing the vegetables to soak up the dressing.
Why This Recipe Works
Fresh ingredients create incredible flavor with very little effort.
- Cucumbers provide crisp texture and refreshing crunch.
- Ripe tomatoes add sweetness and natural juiciness.
- Red onions contribute a mild bite and vibrant color.
- Fresh herbs brighten every bite.
- A homemade vinaigrette balances acidity with a touch of sweetness.
- The salad comes together in less than 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Salad
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| English cucumber, sliced | 2 |
| Roma tomatoes, chopped | 4 |
| Cherry tomatoes, halved | 1 cup |
| Red onion, thinly sliced | 1/2 medium |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 1/4 cup |
| Fresh basil, chopped | 2 tablespoons |
Homemade Vinaigrette
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Extra virgin olive oil | 1/4 cup |
| Red wine vinegar | 3 tablespoons |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Honey | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic, minced | 1 clove |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Freshly ground black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
Optional Additions
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Crumbled feta cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Kalamata olives | 1/2 cup |
| Avocado, diced | 1 |
| Thinly sliced radishes | 4 |
Ingredient Notes
- English cucumbers have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, making them ideal for salads.
- Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the sweetest flavor.
- Fresh herbs make a noticeable difference compared to dried herbs.
- If red onion tastes too sharp, soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes before adding them to the salad.
Step-by-Step Instructions
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Wash and dry all the vegetables thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers, chop the tomatoes, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. |
| 2 | Place the cucumbers, tomatoes, onion, parsley, and basil in a large serving bowl. |
| 3 | In a small bowl or mason jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, honey, garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined. |
| 4 | Pour the vinaigrette over the vegetables and gently toss until everything is evenly coated. |
| 5 | Allow the salad to rest for 10 to 15 minutes before serving so the flavors can blend together. |
| 6 | Sprinkle with feta cheese, olives, or avocado just before serving if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature. |
Troubleshooting and Pro Tips
- Use firm cucumbers and ripe tomatoes for the best texture.
- Salt the cucumbers lightly and let them sit for 15 minutes before assembling if you prefer a less watery salad.
- Chill the salad for 20 to 30 minutes before serving for maximum freshness.
- Add delicate herbs and avocado just before serving to maintain their texture.
- Toss gently to keep the tomatoes from breaking apart.
Variations
This Cucumber Tomato Salad is incredibly versatile.
- Add chickpeas for extra protein and fiber.
- Include diced avocado for a creamy texture.
- Toss in mozzarella pearls for an Italian-inspired version.
- Add quinoa or cooked couscous to make it a complete meal.
- Sprinkle with feta and olives for a Greek-style salad.
- Add fresh dill for an herb-forward variation.
Serving Suggestions
This refreshing salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, steak, salmon, burgers, barbecue ribs, or shrimp. It also complements Mediterranean dishes, sandwiches, wraps, and roasted vegetables.
Serve it alongside grilled corn, baked potatoes, pasta salad, or fresh bread for a complete summer meal.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir before serving, as the vegetables will naturally release some liquid over time. For the freshest texture, add avocado and cheese only when ready to eat.
Nutrition Facts
Approximate values per serving, based on 6 servings.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 145 |
| Total Fat | 11 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 320 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 6 g |
| Protein | 2 g |
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary depending on ingredient brands and optional add-ins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Cucumber Tomato Salad ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the vegetables and dressing separately up to one day ahead. Combine them about 20 to 30 minutes before serving for the freshest texture.
Why does my salad become watery?
Cucumbers and tomatoes naturally release moisture after being salted or mixed with dressing. Serving the salad soon after tossing helps maintain its crispness.
What type of cucumber works best?
English cucumbers are ideal because they have fewer seeds and thinner skins, but Persian cucumbers are another excellent choice.
Can I add cheese?
Absolutely. Feta cheese, fresh mozzarella pearls, or even crumbled goat cheese all pair wonderfully with the fresh vegetables.
What main dishes pair well with this salad?
It complements grilled meats, seafood, burgers, sandwiches, roasted chicken, Mediterranean dishes, and picnic favorites.
Conclusion
This Cucumber Tomato Salad is the perfect example of how a few fresh ingredients can create something truly delicious. Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and a bright homemade vinaigrette come together in a refreshing dish that’s ideal for summer meals, cookouts, and everyday dinners.
If you make this recipe, leave a comment below and let us know how it turned out. If your recipe site includes star ratings, we’d love for you to leave a review to help other home cooks. Share a photo of your Cucumber Tomato Salad on social media and follow along for more fresh salads, healthy side dishes, and seasonal recipes the whole family will enjoy.
Cucumber Tomato Salad
A vibrant salad, bursting with fresh flavors and textures, embodies the essence of summer. It’s a popular choice in Mediterranean cuisine.
Ingredients
- 2 medium cucumbers, diced
- 2 large tomatoes, chopped
- 1 small red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Begin by preparing the vegetables. Wash the cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly. Dice the cucumbers and chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
Next, finely dice the red onion. If you prefer a milder flavor, soak the diced onion in cold water for about 10 minutes, then drain.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced cucumbers, chopped tomatoes, and red onion. Toss gently to combine.
Add the chopped parsley and basil to the bowl. These fresh herbs will elevate the flavors of your salad.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until the dressing is well blended.
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently until all ingredients are coated evenly.
Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled for the best taste!
Recipe Reviews
- ★★★★★
Excellent recipe!
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Excellent recipe!