Cucumber and Tomato Salad Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a refreshing, crisp dish that captures the very best flavors of summer, look no further than this Cucumber and Tomato Salad. It’s the perfect marriage of juicy tomatoes and crunchy cucumbers, all brought together with a simple yet deeply flavorful dressing. As soon as you toss these vibrant veggies together, you’ll see why this salad has become a staple at backyard barbecues, family picnics, and weeknight dinner tables alike. My friends and family have all raved about this recipe, and I’m so excited to walk you through everything you need to make the freshest Cucumber and Tomato Salad you’ve ever tasted!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of simple ingredients to create a Cucumber and Tomato Salad that bursts with color and flavor. Each one truly shines in this recipe, contributing either crunch, juiciness, or a pop of brightness that keeps the whole bowl irresistible.

• Cucumbers: Choose English or Persian cucumbers for their tender skin and mild flavor; there’s no need to peel or seed them, and they add unbeatable crunch.
• Tomatoes: Go for ripe, juicy tomatoes—anything from heirlooms to cherry tomatoes works great; their sweetness and color set the tone of the salad.
• Red Onion: Thin slices provide just the right amount of sharpness and gorgeous color contrast.
• Fresh Herbs (like dill or parsley): These give the salad a burst of freshness—dill is classic, but parsley, basil, or even mint can be lovely, too.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A drizzle coats the veggies in rich flavor and ties everything together—use a good quality oil if possible.
• Red Wine Vinegar or Lemon Juice: Adds tang and brightness that lifts the whole salad; if you can’t find red wine vinegar, white wine vinegar or lemon juice both work beautifully.
• Kosher Salt & Freshly Ground Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of every bite.
• Optional Feta Cheese: For a creamy, slightly briny finishing touch—especially if you love a Mediterranean flair!

How to Make Cucumber and Tomato Salad

Step 1: Slice and Prep the Veggies

Begin by washing all your produce thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds—no need to peel if you’re using thin-skinned varieties. Cut your tomatoes into bite-sized wedges or halves, depending on their size. Finally, slice the red onion as thinly as possible so it melds gently into the salad. If you’re using fresh herbs, give them a quick chop to release their aroma.

Step 2: Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), a big pinch of kosher salt, and some freshly ground black pepper. This simple dressing is all about letting the natural flavors of the produce shine while adding just enough tang and richness to make the whole salad sing.

Step 3: Toss Everything Together

Place all the sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and herbs in a large salad bowl. Pour the dressing over the top, and gently toss everything together with clean hands or salad tongs until the veggies are coated and glistening. If you’re adding feta cheese, sprinkle it in now for an irresistible creamy element.

Step 4: Chill and Marinate

For the best flavor, let your Cucumber and Tomato Salad rest in the fridge for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This brief chill time helps meld the flavors and makes the salad even more refreshing—a true summertime treat!

How to Serve Cucumber and Tomato Salad

Garnishes

To take your Cucumber and Tomato Salad up a notch, consider a final scattering of more fresh herbs, a dusting of cracked pepper, or a light sprinkle of flaked sea salt. If you’re a fan of cheese, a few extra crumbles of feta or goat cheese make a lovely finish. For a pretty presentation, try adding a few lemon zest curls on top.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs effortlessly with so many main courses! Serve it alongside grilled chicken, fish, kebabs, or veggie burgers. It’s also fantastic with fresh pita or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices at the bottom of the bowl. At a barbecue, it’s a cool counterpoint to anything hot off the grill.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Cucumber and Tomato Salad in chilled individual glasses for a fun, elegant starter. Layer it in a wide shallow bowl for family-style dinners, or pack it in mason jars for easy grab-and-go picnics. You can even spoon it over toasted bread for a twist on bruschetta, or pile it on top of hummus for a quick appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Cucumber and Tomato Salad, simply cover it tightly and store it in the fridge. It’ll keep well for up to 2 days, though the veggies may release a bit more juice over time. Give it a quick toss before serving again to redistribute the flavors.

Freezing

Although many salads can be frozen, this isn’t one of them—cucumbers and tomatoes become watery and mushy after thawing, so for the freshest experience, stick to enjoying your Cucumber and Tomato Salad within a couple of days of making it.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat Cucumber and Tomato Salad, as it’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you prefer a slightly cooler salad, give it 10-15 minutes out of the fridge before serving to let the flavors open up.

FAQs

Can I make this Cucumber and Tomato Salad in advance?

Absolutely! You can prep the veggies and dressing up to a few hours ahead and keep them separate. Toss everything together right before serving for the freshest texture and flavor.

What type of tomatoes should I use?

Any ripe, flavorful tomatoes will work well in this salad. Cherry and grape tomatoes are sweet and easy to halve, while heirloom or Roma tomatoes offer beautiful color and juiciness—just pick what looks freshest at your market.

How can I keep the cucumbers from getting soggy?

For extra crunch, pat the cucumber slices dry with a paper towel before mixing them in. If you’re prepping the salad far in advance, keep the dressing separate until you’re almost ready to serve.

Can I add other vegetables or ingredients?

Definitely! Sliced radishes, sweet bell peppers, or even avocado can be wonderful additions. Try swapping feta for mozzarella balls for a slightly different twist, or include olives for a Mediterranean vibe.

Is this salad vegan and gluten-free?

It absolutely is, as long as you skip the optional feta cheese or use a plant-based substitute. All the main ingredients in Cucumber and Tomato Salad are naturally gluten-free and vegan.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to give this Cucumber and Tomato Salad a try. It’s such a bright, easy dish that somehow manages to steal the show at any table. Grab those peak-season veggies, toss it all together, and get ready to fall in love with the simplest summer salad ever!

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