Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that absolutely screams “summer,” look no further than a vibrant Cucumber Tomato Salad. This refreshing medley pairs the crispness of cucumber with the juicy pop of grape tomatoes, all nestled together with a zippy homemade dressing that brings everything to life. Whether you’re prepping for a picnic, serving a crowd at a backyard barbecue, or simply craving a light lunch, this Cucumber Tomato Salad couldn’t be easier or more satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s something beautifully simple about gathering just a handful of ingredients that each play a star role in the final result. Here’s what you’ll need to create a colorful and crave-worthy Cucumber Tomato Salad, with every ingredient adding its own unique taste, texture, or pop of color.

• English cucumber: Offers a refreshing crunch and won’t need peeling for this salad.
• Grape tomatoes: Their sweetness and juiciness are the heartbeat of this dish—slice them in half to soak up that dreamy dressing.
• Red onion: Gives the salad a zesty bite and a little color contrast.
• Chopped parsley: Adds fresh herbal notes for the perfect finish.
• Extra virgin olive oil: The key to a beautifully silky dressing with robust flavor.
• Red wine vinegar: Offers tang that elevates every fresh bite.
• Granulated sugar or honey: Just a spoonful helps balance the acidity—choose honey for extra floral notes.
• Dried basil: Brings a subtle, earthy herb flavor to the dressing.
• Salt: Essential to make each vegetable shine.
• Black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth to bring it all together.

How to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad

Step 1: Prep Your Vegetables

Start by giving your cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion a good rinse. Slice the cucumber into rounds, then cut each round into quarters for easy, bite-sized pieces. Halve the grape tomatoes to help them mingle with the other ingredients and soak up more dressing. Slice the red onion into thin, delicate strips so every forkful brings just the right punch. Chop the parsley last so it stays super fresh.

Step 2: Whisk the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, granulated sugar (or honey), dried basil, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until the dressing looks glossy and well-blended. If you taste it at this stage, you’ll notice that sweet-tart balance that really defines a classic Cucumber Tomato Salad.

Step 3: Toss It All Together

Now, grab a large mixing bowl and add in all your prepared vegetables and parsley. Pour the dressing over the top, making sure to drizzle it evenly. Use salad servers or a big spoon to toss everything gently until each piece is coated. The aroma here is pure summer—herby, tangy, and fresh.

Step 4: Chill for Flavor

This is when the real magic happens. Cover the bowl with a lid or a sheet of plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for at least two hours. This chill time lets all the flavors marinate and turn your Cucumber Tomato Salad into something truly crave-worthy. Give it a gentle stir before serving to wake up the flavors.

How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Salad

Garnishes

A shower of fresh chopped parsley is a classic topper, but you could also add a sprinkle of crumbled feta or a few fresh basil leaves for even more color and creaminess. Don’t be afraid to get creative with a dusting of freshly cracked black pepper or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving.

Side Dishes

This salad is the ultimate companion to grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even a simple piece of fish. It also pairs beautifully with crusty bread—try sopping up the extra dressing! Honestly, a generous scoop alongside a bowl of soup or a classic pasta dish can be a meal all on its own.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to wow your guests? Serve your Cucumber Tomato Salad in individual mason jars for a fun picnic twist, or layer it in clear glasses for a stunning visual effect at your next buffet. For a heartier version, toss in some chickpeas or mozzarella balls and you’ve created a whole new summer classic.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Cucumber Tomato Salad, simply transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge. The flavors actually get better as they mingle overnight, but it’s best enjoyed within 2 to 3 days for maximum freshness and crunch.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t recommended for this salad, since the cucumbers and tomatoes become watery and mushy once thawed. Enjoy your Cucumber Tomato Salad fresh for the best texture!

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat this salad—it’s meant to be enjoyed cold. If it’s been in the fridge, just give it a good stir and maybe a sprinkle of extra parsley or a splash of fresh vinegar before serving to revive all those bright flavors.

FAQs

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumber?

Absolutely! Just peel them if the skin is thick and slice them as directed. English cucumbers are preferred for their sweetness and thin skin, but any cucumber works in a pinch.

What other herbs taste great in Cucumber Tomato Salad?

Fresh dill, mint, or basil can all be swapped in or added along with parsley for a different twist. Experiment to find your own perfect herby combination.

Is it okay to make Cucumber Tomato Salad a day ahead?

Yes, this salad tastes wonderful when made one day in advance. In fact, the flavors have more time to meld! Just remember to give it a gentle toss before serving, as some liquid may collect at the bottom of the bowl.

How can I make this salad even more filling?

You can bulk up Cucumber Tomato Salad by tossing in some canned chickpeas, cooked quinoa, mozzarella pearls, or even avocado. It turns a side into a light, satisfying main.

What’s the best way to keep onions from being too strong?

If red onions are a little too punchy for your taste, soak the sliced onions in ice water for 10 minutes, then drain and pat them dry before adding to your salad. It mellows their flavor without losing that gorgeous crunch.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a delicious, foolproof side that truly tastes like sunshine in a bowl, this Cucumber Tomato Salad is it. Whip it up for your next gathering or keep it in the fridge for easy, healthy snacking—you won’t regret it! Dive in and let those fresh flavors take center stage at your table.

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