Cucumber Tomato Salad

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The simplicity of this Cucumber Tomato Salad is what makes it a favorite in any kitchen. Crisp cucumbers, sweet cherry tomatoes, and the sharp bite of red onion are brought together by a splash of red wine vinegar and smooth olive oil. It’s a fresh and flavorful medley that complements just about any meal.

Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or prepping a quick lunch, this salad fits the bill. It’s naturally gluten-free, vegan, and takes just minutes to prepare. Let it chill a little before serving, and you’ll have a dish that feels both effortless and gourmet, brimming with seasonal flavor and texture.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 large cucumber, sliced into thin rounds or half-moons
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion.
Drizzle with red wine vinegar and olive oil.
Sprinkle the chopped parsley and dill over the top.
Season generously with salt and black pepper.
Toss everything gently until the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing and herbs.
Let the salad sit for 10–15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes
Kcal: 85 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Cucumber Tomato Salad: A Refreshing Classic for Every Season

When it comes to fresh, crisp, and colorful salads, few combinations rival the timeless appeal of a cucumber tomato salad. It’s one of those classic recipes that proves simple really can be sensational. This salad is a staple in Mediterranean, Eastern European, and Middle Eastern cuisines, each culture with its own twist but the essential ingredients remain humble and universally loved: juicy tomatoes, cool cucumbers, and a splash of vinaigrette.

Whether you’re serving this as a refreshing side dish at your summer BBQ, packing it for a picnic, or enjoying it as a light lunch, this cucumber tomato salad checks all the boxes. It’s quick to prepare, vibrant in flavor, and naturally healthy. It’s also gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and incredibly versatile. What more could you want from a dish?

Why Cucumber Tomato Salad Is So Loved

There are countless reasons why cucumber tomato salad is a staple across so many kitchens and cultures. First and foremost is the flavor. Crisp cucumbers deliver a refreshing crunch, while ripe cherry tomatoes offer juicy sweetness and a hint of acidity. When tossed with a simple dressing like red wine vinegar and olive oil, these vegetables transform into a zesty, palate-cleansing dish.

Another reason for its popularity is ease of preparation. With no cooking required and just a bit of slicing and mixing, this salad is ready in under 10 minutes. It’s a perfect example of how a dish can be greater than the sum of its parts. This simplicity also means it’s ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.

Additionally, this salad is incredibly good for you. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants like lycopene, known for its anti-inflammatory and heart-healthy benefits. Cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories, offering vitamins K and C along with electrolytes. Pairing these veggies with healthy fats from olive oil helps the body absorb these nutrients more efficiently.

The Best Ingredients to Use

When a recipe is this simple, using quality ingredients is key. Here’s what to look for:

Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are ideal for their sweetness and minimal prep, but you can also use grape tomatoes, Roma, heirloom, or even beefsteak tomatoes if you prefer chunkier textures. Whatever variety you choose, make sure they’re ripe and fragrant.
Cucumbers: English cucumbers are seedless, mild, and have a thin skin, making them perfect for salads. Persian cucumbers are another great option. If using regular garden cucumbers, consider peeling and deseeding them for best results.
Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a sharp contrast to the sweetness of the tomatoes. If you’re sensitive to the bite, soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow the flavor.
Vinegar and Oil: Red wine vinegar is a classic choice for brightness and depth, but you could also use white wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or fresh lemon juice. Extra virgin olive oil provides richness and helps meld all the flavors together.
Herbs: Parsley adds freshness and a slightly peppery note. Dill is optional but highly recommended, it pairs beautifully with cucumbers and gives the salad a subtle herbal lift.
Seasoning: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper. A generous pinch of kosher salt will draw out the juices from the tomatoes, enhancing the dressing naturally.

Add-Ins and Variations

This cucumber tomato salad is wonderfully flexible. You can enjoy it in its purest form or customize it depending on what’s in your fridge or what flavors you’re craving. Here are a few delicious ideas:

Feta Cheese: Add crumbled feta for a creamy, tangy twist. This version leans Greek and pairs well with olives.
Avocado: Diced avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats, making the salad more filling.
Olives: Kalamata or black olives give a briny pop and Mediterranean flair.
Chickpeas: For extra protein and texture, toss in some canned (rinsed and drained) chickpeas.
Peppers: Add chopped bell peppers for an extra crunch and a boost of vitamin C.
Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle balsamic glaze on top for a sweet and tangy finishing touch.
Grains: Turn this into a full meal by mixing in cooked quinoa, couscous, or farro.

These add-ins can turn a simple side dish into a satisfying main course or hearty lunch bowl.

When and How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Salad

This salad is incredibly versatile and fits beautifully into a variety of menus. Here are some ideas:

As a Side Dish: Pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or kebabs. It also works well alongside burgers, sandwiches, or wraps.
For Potlucks and BBQs: Its no-mayo, vinegar-based dressing makes it ideal for outdoor gatherings. It holds up well and stays fresh even when it’s not refrigerated for a bit.
In Meal Prep: Since the flavors improve after sitting for a few hours, this salad is perfect for making ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy it for up to 3 days.
With Bread: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices at the bottom of the bowl.
As a Topping: Use it to top grilled proteins, baked potatoes, or even mix into scrambled eggs or omelets for a fresh veggie boost.

Storage Tips

Leftover cucumber tomato salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, note that cucumbers tend to release water over time, so the salad may become a bit more watery the longer it sits. You can drain excess liquid or mix in a bit more vinegar or seasoning to refresh the flavors before serving again.

If you plan to make it ahead for an event, consider prepping the veggies and dressing separately, then tossing everything together 30 minutes before serving. This helps retain the best texture and prevents the cucumbers from getting soggy.

Nutritional Information and Dietary Notes

This salad is:

Naturally Vegan: No animal products involved.
Gluten-Free: No grains, so it’s safe for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
Low Carb: Great for those following a low-carb or keto-lite diet.
Low-Calorie: At under 100 calories per serving, it’s light enough for a snack or starter.

If you’re looking to increase protein, consider adding a lean meat like grilled chicken or tofu cubes. For healthy fats, avocados or seeds (like sunflower or pumpkin) make an excellent addition.

A Global Dish with Local Charm

From American summer picnics to Middle Eastern mezze platters, the cucumber tomato salad is celebrated around the world. In Turkish cuisine, it’s close to a shepherd’s salad. In Greek tables, it’s not uncommon to see similar combinations served alongside olives and feta. And in Indian kitchens, a basic version might be used as a cooling side to spicy curries.

What unites these variations is the balance of textures and flavors: the crunch of cucumber, the softness of tomato, the zing of acid, and the hint of fresh herbs. It’s no wonder this humble salad is a household staple globally.

Conclusion

Cucumber Tomato Salad is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of simplicity and freshness. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, this salad delivers vibrant flavor, gorgeous color, and nutritional benefits in every bite. It’s proof that healthy food doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming.

Whether you’re a home cook looking for a quick recipe, someone managing dietary needs, or a food lover chasing seasonal flavors, this salad is a perfect fit. It’s endlessly adaptable, pairs with almost anything, and is loved by adults and kids alike.

So, the next time you find yourself with ripe tomatoes and crunchy cucumbers, don’t overthink it. Toss them with herbs, vinegar, and oil, and enjoy the magic of this timeless dish, fresh from the garden, and straight to your plate.

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