A fresh cucumber tomato salad is a go-to recipe for warm days. I love making this dish when I have ripe tomatoes and crunchy cucumbers on hand. The combination of flavors is refreshing, and it never fails to impress.
This salad brings together simple ingredients for a delightful side dish that everyone adores. With just a bit of preparation, you can enjoy a bright mix of textures and tastes that make any meal feel special.
Jump to:
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This cucumber tomato salad takes just 15 minutes to prepare, making it a perfect last-minute addition to any meal.
- Fresh Ingredients: The recipe uses vibrant, seasonal produce that elevates the dish’s flavor and appeal.
- Customizable: Feel free to tweak the ingredients based on your personal preference or what you have in your kitchen.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve this salad at picnics, barbecues, or family gatherings; it fits every setting seamlessly.
- Light and Refreshing: Enjoy a burst of freshness with every bite, making it a great choice for a side dish during warmer months.
Ingredients You'll Need
- 1 English cucumber – Thinly sliced to add crispness to the salad.
- 2 Large ripe tomatoes – Diced to provide juiciness and flavor.
- 0.5 Red onion – Thinly sliced for a slight bite and color contrast.
- 2 tablespoons Fresh herbs – Choose parsley, basil, or dill; finely chopped to enhance the salad's freshness.
- 3 tablespoons Olive oil – A key ingredient for the dressing, adding richness.
- 1.5 tablespoons Red wine vinegar – Provides acidity that balances the flavors perfectly.
- 0.25 teaspoon Salt – Enhances the overall taste of the salad.
- 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper – Adds a gentle heat to the dressing.
How to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad
Step 1: Keep the Cucumbers Crisp
Slice the cucumbers into half-moons or quarters. Salt them generously and let them sit in a colander for 20 to 30 minutes. Afterward, pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Step 2: Prep the Vegetables
Chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the red onion and finely chop the herbs of your choice to bring freshness to the salad.
Step 3: Make the Vinaigrette
In a jar or bowl, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Shake or whisk it until fully emulsified to create a smooth dressing.
Step 4: Toss and Chill
In a large bowl, mix the cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and herbs. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently. Chill in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Pro Tips from My Kitchen
✓ Choose Ripe Produce – Use ripe, in-season tomatoes and firm cucumbers for the best flavor and texture in this salad.
✓ Don’t Rush the Salting – Allowing cucumbers to sit with salt not only helps draw out moisture but also enhances their crunchiness.
✓ Try Different Herbs – Experiment with different fresh herbs like mint or cilantro to find your favorite combination for a unique twist.
✓ Serve Chilled – This salad tastes even better when chilled. Letting it rest in the refrigerator allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
✓ Adjust the Seasoning – Always taste the salad before serving and adjust salt and pepper to your liking for maximum flavor.
Serving Ideas and Variations
- Pair this salad with grilled chicken or fish for a refreshing contrast to the protein on your plate.
- Add a sprinkle of feta cheese for a creamy touch that complements the fresh vegetables beautifully.
- For a more filling option, mix in some cooked quinoa or chickpeas to boost the salad's texture and protein content.
- Swap out the vinegar for lemon juice for a zesty citrus twist that brightens the overall flavors of the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cucumber Tomato Salad
Yes, you can use regular cucumbers, but English cucumbers are less bitter and have fewer seeds, making them ideal for this recipe. If using regular cucumbers, consider peeling them to reduce bitterness.
Salting the cucumbers and allowing them to drain prevents them from becoming soggy. Ensure to pat them dry before mixing to keep the salad crisp.
Yes, you can make this salad a few hours in advance. However, it's best to add the dressing right before serving to maintain the crispness of the vegetables.
If you lack fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs instead. Just use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
This salad pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or light pasta dishes. Its refreshing flavor complements many main courses perfectly.
Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 English Cucumbers
- 2 large ripe tomatoes
- 0.5 medium red onion
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs Choose parsley, basil, or dill; finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1.5 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Slice the cucumbers into half-moons or quarters. Salt them generously and let them sit in a colander for 20 to 30 minutes. Afterward, pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the red onion and finely chop the herbs of your choice to bring freshness to the salad.
- In a jar or bowl, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Shake or whisk it until fully emulsified to create a smooth dressing.
- In a large bowl, mix the cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and herbs. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently. Chill in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
- Choose ripe produce, don't rush the salting, try different herbs, serve chilled, and adjust the seasoning to taste.
Leave a Reply