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When you need a quick, refreshing side dish that bursts with flavor and vibrant colors, an easy cucumber tomato salad recipe is the answer. This classic salad is a staple for a reason: it's incredibly simple to prepare, packed with fresh vegetables, and delightfully crisp. Whether you're looking for a light lunch, a vibrant barbecue side, or a healthy addition to your weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers on taste and convenience.
Our version brings together crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a tangy, herby dressing that enhances their natural goodness. It's a versatile salad that adapts beautifully to different palates and occasions, making it a go-to for busy cooks who don't want to compromise on fresh, wholesome food.
Easy Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe
Recipe Card
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, peeled (optional) and diced
- 3-4 medium ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced or finely diced (optional, for milder flavor, soak in ice water for 5 minutes and drain)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or dill, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar or red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and thoroughly dry the cucumbers and tomatoes. Dice the cucumbers into bite-sized pieces. Dice the tomatoes to a similar size. If using red onion, thinly slice or finely dice it.
- Combine Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion (if using). Add the chopped fresh parsley or dill.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and optional sugar until well combined.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the vegetables. Toss gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
- Serve: For best flavor, serve immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips for the Best Cucumber Tomato Salad
- Choose Ripe Produce: The success of this simple salad heavily relies on the quality of your ingredients. Select firm, crisp cucumbers and ripe, juicy tomatoes.
- Drain Excess Water: Cucumbers can release a lot of water. If you're not serving immediately, you can lightly salt the diced cucumbers and let them sit for 10-15 minutes, then pat them dry before adding to the salad. This helps prevent the salad from becoming watery.
- Customizable Dressing: Adjust the amount of oil, vinegar, and seasonings to your preference. A touch of garlic powder can also be a nice addition.
- Chill Time: While delicious immediately, a short chill time (15-30 minutes) allows the flavors to marry beautifully.
Substitutions and Variations
- Herbs: Experiment with fresh mint, basil, or chives for different flavor profiles.
- Cheese: Crumbled feta cheese or fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) make a fantastic addition, transforming it into a more substantial side.
- Olives: Sliced Kalamata olives add a briny, Mediterranean touch.
- Bell Peppers: Add diced green or red bell peppers for extra crunch and sweetness.
- Spicy Kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes in the dressing can add a subtle heat.
- Creamy Dressing: For a creamy version, whisk a tablespoon or two of Greek yogurt or sour cream into the dressing.
Serving Suggestions
This easy cucumber tomato salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or steak. It's also perfect with sandwiches, wraps, or as part of a Mediterranean platter. It pairs wonderfully with a light main dish like healthy chicken cabbage stir-fry for a balanced meal. For a refreshing drink pairing, consider infused water recipes.
Storage
Store any leftover cucumber tomato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad is best consumed fresh, as cucumbers can become watery and soft over time once dressed. If you anticipate leftovers, you might consider dressing only the portion you plan to eat immediately and storing the undressed vegetables and dressing separately. For general food safety guidelines for fresh produce, consult resources like the FDA website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of cucumbers are best for this salad?
English cucumbers (seedless) or Persian cucumbers are often preferred for their firm texture and minimal seeds, which means less water content. Regular garden cucumbers work too, but you might want to scoop out the seeds if they're large.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
While best served fresh, you can prepare the vegetables and dressing separately a few hours in advance and combine them just before serving. If you dress it too far ahead, the cucumbers can release water, making the salad less crisp.
Is this salad healthy?
Yes, this salad is very healthy! It's packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from the fresh cucumbers and tomatoes, and the olive oil provides healthy fats. It's a low-calorie, hydrating, and nutritious addition to any meal. Learn more about healthy foods and their benefits.
What can I use instead of white wine vinegar?
Red wine vinegar is an excellent substitute. Apple cider vinegar can also work, providing a slightly fruitier tang. Fresh lemon juice is another great option for a brighter, citrusy flavor.
