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Cucumber Tomato Salad – Crisp, Juicy, and Perfectly Refreshing for Any Meal

Nothing says fresh and simple like a classic Cucumber Tomato Salad! This salad is a bright, juicy medley of crunchy cucumbers, sweet, ripe tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette that ties everything together. It’s quick to make, budget-friendly, and a guaranteed hit on any table—from weeknight dinners to weekend barbecues. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this salad celebrates the natural taste of fresh vegetables. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or can be enjoyed all by itself as a healthy, satisfying snack.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
chill time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Produce
  • 2 large cucumbers diced or sliced
  • 3 medium tomatoes diced or cut into wedges
  • ¼ red onion thinly sliced (optional)
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil or parsley chopped
Pantry
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar or white wine vinegar
  • ½ tsp sea salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • Optional: ½ tsp sugar for a touch of sweetness

Equipment

  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small bowl (for dressing)
  • Whisk or fork
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Serving spoon

Method
 

Step 1. Prep the Vegetables
  1. Wash and dice or slice 2 large cucumbers.
  2. Wash and dice or cut 3 medium tomatoes into wedges.
  3. Optional: Thinly slice ¼ red onion for extra flavor.
  4. Add cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions to a large mixing bowl.
Step 2. Make the Dressing
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together:
  2. 3 tbsp olive oil
  3. 2 tbsp vinegar
  4. ½ tsp sea salt
  5. ¼ tsp black pepper
  6. Optional: ½ tsp sugar for balanced acidity
Step 3. Combine and Toss
  1. Pour the dressing over the vegetables in the bowl.
  2. Add 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil or parsley.
  3. Gently toss until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
Step 4. Chill (Optional)
  1. For best flavor, cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  2. Stir again before serving.
Step 5. Serve and Enjoy
  1. Serve chilled or at room temperature as a light, refreshing side dish.
  2. Garnish with more fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Note: Tomatoes will release liquid over time; stir before serving and drain excess liquid if needed.
Do not freeze – cucumbers and tomatoes will lose texture when thawed.
🥄 Variations
Creamy Version: Stir in ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy dressing.
Mediterranean: Add diced feta cheese and kalamata olives.
Italian: Mix in mozzarella pearls and extra basil for a Caprese twist.
Spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper.
Protein-Packed: Toss with grilled chicken, chickpeas, or cooked shrimp.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. Can I peel the cucumbers?
Yes—peel if you prefer a softer texture or if the skins are waxy.
2. What cucumbers work best?
English or Persian cucumbers are ideal for thin skin and fewer seeds.
3. Can I use cherry or grape tomatoes?
Absolutely—halve or quarter them for easy bites.
4. How do I keep the salad from getting watery?
Salt cucumbers and tomatoes lightly, let them sit for 10 minutes, then pat dry before combining.
5. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best enjoyed within a few hours of assembly for crispness.
6. What vinegar is best?
Red wine, white wine, or apple cider vinegar all work well.
7. Can I use lemon juice instead of vinegar?
Yes—substitute equal parts fresh lemon juice for a brighter taste.
8. Is this recipe vegan?
Yes—it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free.
9. Can I add avocado?
Definitely—add diced avocado just before serving for creaminess.
10. Can I double the recipe?
Easily—double all ingredients for a crowd or potluck.
🏁 Conclusion
This Cucumber Tomato Salad is a timeless, refreshing dish that’s as simple as it is delicious. Juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette come together in minutes to create a side salad that’s perfect for any meal. It’s fresh, healthy, and endlessly customizable—once you try it, you’ll want it on your table all year long!