Name: Fresh and Flavorful Cucumber Tomato Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved; 1 large English cucumber, thinly sliced or chopped; ½ small red onion, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar; ½ teaspoon sea salt, or to taste; ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or basil

When warm weather hits or you need a light, refreshing side dish, Cucumber Tomato Salad is the answer. Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, vibrant red onion, and a touch of zesty vinaigrette make this classic salad the perfect addition to nearly any meal. It’s fast, healthy, and incredibly versatile—a staple that belongs in every home cook’s recipe rotation.

Whether you’re planning a picnic, BBQ, or just want something simple for lunch, this salad delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. Let’s explore how to make the best Cucumber Tomato Salad, with all the tips and tricks you need to keep it fresh, delicious, and unforgettable.

Why Cucumber Tomato Salad Is a Must-Have Recipe

Cucumber Tomato Salad is more than just a summer side dish. It’s:

Quick and easy – Ready in 10 minutes with just a few ingredients.
Healthy and hydrating – Loaded with water-rich veggies.
Naturally vegan and gluten-free – Perfect for a variety of diets.
Versatile – Serve it with everything from grilled veggies to hearty mains.

It’s the kind of recipe that feels just right when you want to keep things simple but still enjoy bold, garden-fresh flavors.

Health Benefits of a Cucumber and Tomato Salad

This salad isn’t just tasty—it’s packed with nutrition. Cucumbers are made up of about 95% water, making them excellent for hydration and digestion. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which supports heart health and may help reduce inflammation.

Red onions offer a dose of prebiotics, and olive oil contributes healthy fats that help your body absorb fat-soluble vitamins from the veggies. Altogether, Cucumber Tomato Salad is a wholesome dish you can feel great about eating regularly.

Ingredients for Cucumber Tomato Salad

You only need a handful of fresh, easy-to-find ingredients for this salad:

2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
1 large English cucumber, thinly sliced or chopped
½ small red onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
½ teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or basil

This combination creates a bright, balanced flavor profile that works as-is or as a base for more add-ins.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

One of the beauties of this recipe is that it doesn’t require any special tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

Large mixing bowl
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Measuring spoons
Salad tongs or a serving spoon

With just these basics, you’ll have your salad prepped and ready in no time.

How to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad Step by Step

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Cucumber Tomato Salad every time:

1. Prepare the Vegetables

Wash your cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly. Slice the cherry tomatoes in halves. Peel and thinly slice the red onion. If you’re using an English cucumber, there’s no need to peel it—just slice it into rounds or half-moons.

2. Combine in a Bowl

Add the sliced cucumbers, halved tomatoes, and onions to a large bowl. Toss gently to distribute the colors and textures evenly.

3. Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl or directly over the salad, drizzle the olive oil and red wine vinegar. Sprinkle in the salt and pepper. Toss again until everything is lightly coated.

4. Add Herbs and Chill

If using fresh herbs, sprinkle them over the top and gently stir. You can serve the salad immediately or refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to let the flavors meld.

That’s it—fresh, crisp, and full of life in under 10 minutes.

Tips for the Best Cucumber Tomato Salad Every Time

To ensure your salad always hits the mark, keep these helpful tips in mind:

Use ripe, sweet tomatoes: Cherry or grape tomatoes offer the best flavor and texture. If using larger tomatoes, remove excess seeds to prevent sogginess.
Opt for English cucumbers: They’re seedless and have thin skin, which means no peeling required.
Slice onions thin: Red onion can be strong; thin slices ensure a milder taste and better distribution.
Let it marinate: A short rest in the fridge helps the flavors blend beautifully.
Serve cold: This salad is most refreshing when chilled.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making This Salad

Even with simple recipes, there are a few things to watch out for:

Overdressing: Too much liquid can make the salad soggy. Stick to the measurements or add dressing gradually.
Using watery tomatoes: Beefsteak or overripe tomatoes can add excess moisture. Choose firm cherry or grape tomatoes for best results.
Making it too far ahead: This salad is best enjoyed fresh. If making in advance, keep dressing separate until ready to serve.

Variations: Customize Your Cucumber Tomato Salad

One of the best things about Cucumber Tomato Salad is how easy it is to customize. Try these variations:

Add feta cheese for a Greek twist.
Include avocado for creaminess.
Toss in olives or chickpeas for extra texture.
Use balsamic vinegar instead of red wine for a richer dressing.
Sprinkle sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a light crunch.

Mix and match based on what you have or your flavor preferences.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation Tips

This salad pairs well with almost anything. Serve it as:

A light side with grilled vegetables or proteins
A topping for crusty bread or bruschetta
A base for a grain bowl with quinoa or couscous
A colorful addition to a summer potluck or BBQ

For presentation, serve in a glass bowl to showcase the vibrant reds, greens, and purples. Garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers to make it truly pop.

How to Store Leftover Cucumber Tomato Salad

If you have leftovers, you can store this salad in the fridge, though it’s best enjoyed fresh. Here’s how:

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Avoid freezing: The texture of cucumbers and tomatoes becomes mushy after freezing.
Keep dressing separate if prepping ahead: For meal prep, store the chopped veggies and dressing separately and combine just before serving.

If the salad releases too much liquid after sitting, just drain lightly and refresh with a splash of vinegar and herbs.

Ideal Food Pairings (No Alcohol)

Pair your Cucumber Tomato Salad with refreshing, wholesome foods and drinks that complement its fresh, tangy flavor:

Grilled veggie skewers or tofu
Roasted potatoes or rice pilaf
Lentil patties or veggie burgers
Iced lemon water or herbal tea
Sparkling cucumber or citrus water

These pairings keep the meal light, fresh, and full of nutrients without overpowering the clean taste of the salad.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cucumber Tomato Salad

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but for best results, keep the dressing separate until just before serving.

How do I keep the cucumbers from getting soggy?
Use firm cucumbers and avoid over-dressing. You can also salt cucumber slices lightly and drain excess moisture before mixing.

Can I use other vinegars?
Absolutely. Balsamic, apple cider vinegar, or even lemon juice are great alternatives to red wine vinegar.

Is this salad vegan and gluten-free?
Yes, the base recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free. Just check any added ingredients for dietary compliance.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?
It’s best eaten within 24 hours but can be kept up to 2 days. After that, the texture may soften.

Final Thoughts + Call to Action

Simple, colorful, and bursting with freshness, Cucumber Tomato Salad is a timeless classic that belongs in your regular meal rotation. Whether you’re hosting a summer dinner, packing lunch, or making a light weeknight side, this salad is always a crowd-pleaser.