Table of contents
Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
The Story & Intro
Every summer growing up, our backyard garden was overflowing with juicy tomatoes and crunchy cucumbers. My mom would toss them with herbs, a splash of vinegar, and olive oil to make this simple yet irresistible salad. It was the first thing to disappear at cookouts and BBQs, and now it’s a staple on my own table.
This Cucumber Tomato Salad recipe is a fresh celebration of summer. It’s light, hydrating, and brimming with natural flavor—no complicated prep, no fancy dressing. Whether you’re making it for a picnic, potluck, or just as a healthy side for grilled chicken, this salad is guaranteed to shine.
Print
Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A crisp, colorful Cucumber Tomato Salad tossed with fresh herbs and vinaigrette—perfect as a light summer side dish.
Ingredients
2 cups chopped cucumbers
2 cups chopped ripe tomatoes
1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or dill
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp white wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Chop the cucumbers and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
2. Thinly slice red onion and chop herbs.
3. Add all vegetables to a large bowl.
4. Whisk olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small cup.
5. Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently.
6. Let sit for 10–15 minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, add crumbled feta, sliced avocado, or fresh basil.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Cucumber Tomato Salad, Fresh Salad Recipes, Tomato Salad Recipes
Fresh Ingredients for the Perfect Cucumber Tomato Salad
Why Simplicity Works Best
All you need are garden-fresh tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, red onion, and a simple vinaigrette. The key is using ripe, flavorful produce—no need for anything fancy.
Ingredient Checklist
- Fresh cucumbers (English or Persian are best)
- Ripe tomatoes (Roma, cherry, or heirloom)
- Red onion or shallot
- Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or basil
- Olive oil
- Vinegar (white wine or apple cider)
- Salt & pepper to taste
How to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad
Step-by-Step Assembly
Slice cucumbers and tomatoes into even pieces—bite-size is best. Thinly slice onion and chop herbs. Combine in a bowl.
In a separate cup, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Pour over the salad and toss gently. Let it rest for 10–15 minutes to meld the flavors before serving.
Optional Add-Ins
- Feta cheese
- Avocado slices
- Chickpeas for protein
- Fresh corn or mozzarella for variation
Why You’ll Love This Tomato Cucumber Salad
Refreshing & Hydrating
Thanks to the water-rich vegetables, this salad is incredibly cooling on hot days. It’s a perfect side dish for any summer event.
Naturally Gluten-Free & Vegan
No mayo, no dairy—just simple, clean ingredients. Great for guests with dietary preferences.
Serving Suggestions & Storage Tips
Best Served With
Pair it with grilled meats, burgers, or alongside pasta. It’s a fantastic contrast to rich mains.
How to Store Leftovers
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The tomatoes may release liquid, so give it a stir before serving. Avoid freezing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, just keep the dressing separate and combine everything before serving to prevent sogginess.
What type of cucumbers work best?
English cucumbers are ideal—no seeds, thinner skin, and extra crunch. Persian cucumbers are great too.
Can I add protein to make it a full meal?
Definitely! Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even tuna to make it hearty enough for lunch.