As the sun shines brightly and summer days stretch lazily ahead, nothing feels more refreshing than a bowl of Cucumber Tomato Salad. This dish transcends everyday salads, bursting with the crispness of cool cucumbers and the vibrant sweetness of ripe tomatoes, all enhanced by a zesty vinaigrette that dances on your palate. I love how quick and easy it is to whip together—just ten minutes, and you’re ready to serve a dish that not only pleases the eyes but also soothes the soul.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply need a light lunch to balance out heavier meals, this salad is the perfect solution. With its gluten-free and low-calorie profile, it seamlessly fits into almost any dietary need. And feel free to get creative! A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a hint of cheese can turn this already delightful side into a showstopper. Join me in savoring the simple joys of summer with this delightful Cucumber Tomato Salad!
Why is Cucumber Tomato Salad irresistible?
Simplicity at Its Best: This Cucumber Tomato Salad comes together in just 10 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy schedules.
Vibrant Flavor: The combination of fresh cucumbers and juicy tomatoes shines through, enhanced by a zesty vinaigrette that elevates every bite.
Healthy and Light: With only 104 calories per serving, this salad is gluten-free and low-calorie, ensuring you feel light and energetic.
Customizable Delight: Add crumbled feta, diced avocado, or your favorite herbs for a personal twist that suits any palate.
Perfectly Versatile: Ideal as a refreshing side for grilled meats or as a standalone light lunch. This salad embodies summer’s spirit and is sure to impress at your next gathering!
Cucumber Tomato Salad Ingredients
For the Salad
• English cucumber – Provides crunch and moisture; it’s preferred for its tender skin and minimal seeds.
• Large ripe tomatoes – Adds sweetness and juiciness; feel free to use any variety based on personal preference.
• Medium red onion – Contributes sharpness and depth of flavor; sweet onions can be used for a milder taste.
• Fresh herbs (parsley, basil, dill) – Enhances flavor and adds freshness; swap with dried herbs by reducing the amount to one-third.
For the Dressing
• Olive oil – Provides richness and serves as a dressing base; choose a good quality oil or try infused varieties for added flavor.
• Red wine vinegar – Offers acidity and brightness to the dressing; it can be substituted with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice.
• Salt and black pepper – Enhances and balances overall flavors; adjust based on taste, and consider using kosher salt for texture.
Embrace the fresh, wholesome flavors of this Cucumber Tomato Salad, and enjoy creating your own variations!
How to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad
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Prep Ingredients: Begin by slicing the English cucumber into thin rounds and dicing the large ripe tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the medium red onion for added flavor.
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Mix Ingredients: In a spacious bowl, gently combine the sliced cucumbers, diced tomatoes, and red onion. If you’re using fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or dill, toss them in now for that fresh burst!
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Prepare Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. This vibrant dressing will complement the salad perfectly.
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Combine: Pour the zesty dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently, ensuring everything is well-coated in that delicious goodness.
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Chill: To let the flavors meld beautifully, cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 20 minutes before serving. This also adds a nice chill to the salad, making it even more refreshing!
Optional: Garnish with extra herbs or a sprinkle of feta cheese for an added layer of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Cucumber Tomato Salad
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Advance Prep: Make the salad a few hours ahead of serving to allow flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of the Cucumber Tomato Salad.
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Herb Substitution: If using dried herbs, reduce the amount to one-third; this prevents overpowering the fresh ingredients with strong flavors.
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Crispness Maintained: Drain excess liquid before serving if the salad sits for longer periods, which helps keep the cucumbers crunchy and prevents sogginess.
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Flavor Twists: Experiment with different dressings like lemon vinaigrette or add chili flakes for a kick, making your Cucumber Tomato Salad exciting each time.
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Garnish Options: Don’t hesitate to sprinkle some crumbled feta or fresh avocado on top before serving; these additions elevate the dish’s flavor profile and presentation!
How to Store and Freeze Cucumber Tomato Salad
Fridge: Keep the salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This ensures it remains fresh and crisp, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze Cucumber Tomato Salad, as the high water content in cucumbers and tomatoes can lead to a soggy texture once thawed.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just remember to add fresh herbs right before serving to maintain their vibrancy and flavor.
Reheating: No reheating is necessary for this refreshing salad. Simply serve it chilled for the best taste and experience.
What to Serve with Cucumber Tomato Salad?
As the perfect accompaniment to your summer gatherings, this salad opens the door to delightful pairings that will enhance every meal.
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken drizzled with lemon herb seasoning beautifully complements the fresh flavors of the salad. It’s a match made in backyard barbecue heaven!
- Roasted Fish: The light and flaky texture of a lemon butter fish allows the salad to shine while balancing the dish with its own delicate flavors.
- Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or ciabatta provides the ideal base for scooping up the salad, adding a satisfying crunch to each bite.
- Pasta Primavera: This vibrant vegetable pasta dish resonates with the fresh notes of the salad, creating a feast of summer flavors on your table.
- Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a fruity Pinot Grigio enhances the refreshing elements of the salad, creating a harmonious dining experience.
- Fruit Sorbet: Complete your meal on a sweet note with a light fruit sorbet. Its chill and sweetness will bring the perfect close to any summer meal!
Elevate your dining experience by exploring these pairings, ensuring that your Cucumber Tomato Salad shines as a refreshing star on your table!
Make Ahead Options
These Cucumber Tomato Salads are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop all your vegetables (cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion) and store them in an airtight container for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and crispness. The dressing can also be prepared in advance and kept separately for up to 3 days—just whisk it together and refrigerate. To serve, combine the prepped veggies with the dressing just before enjoying to ensure that everything remains vibrant and crunchy. This makes it not only a time-saver on busy weeknights but allows you to enjoy servings that are just as delicious and refreshing!
Cucumber Tomato Salad Variations
Feel free to customize your Cucumber Tomato Salad to suit your tastes and dietary needs, and let your creativity shine!
- Dairy-Free: Replace cheese with avocado or omit it entirely for a light, vegan-friendly option.
- Spicy Kick: Add thinly sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an exciting heat that wakes up your taste buds.
- Herb Blend: Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or mint for a unique twist that infuses freshness.
- Nutty Crunch: Toss in toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds to add delightful crunch and extra nutrition.
- Panzanella Style: Include chunks of day-old bread for a hearty, rustic salad that soaks up delicious vinaigrette flavors.
- Mediterranean Flair: Mix in Kalamata olives and artichoke hearts for a flavorsome Mediterranean twist that’ll transport your palate.
- Fruit Fusion: Add cubes of watermelon or strawberries for a refreshing sweetness that balances the salad’s flavors beautifully.
- Zesty Update: Swap out basic olive oil for a lemon-infused oil to provide a bright, zesty touch to your dressing.
Each variation is a fantastic way to keep your Cucumber Tomato Salad exciting and new every time you make it!
Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe cucumbers for the salad?
Absolutely! Look for cucumbers that are firm to the touch, with smooth skin and vibrant color. Avoid those with dark spots or wrinkles, as these can indicate they are overripe. If you’re using English cucumbers, make sure they have a tender skin and minimal seeds for the best crunch!
How should I store leftovers of this salad?
Store the Cucumber Tomato Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This will help maintain its freshness and crispness. If you notice excess liquid accumulating at the bottom, feel free to drain this before serving to keep the salad from becoming soggy.
Can I freeze Cucumber Tomato Salad?
It’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to its high water content. Freezing can lead to a mushy texture once thawed. Instead, make it fresh and enjoy it within a couple of days for the best flavor and texture.
What if my cucumbers release too much water?
If your cucumbers release excess water, simply drain the liquid before serving. To prevent this, you can slice the cucumbers and sprinkle them with salt about 15 minutes prior to mixing. This process pulls out moisture and keeps the salad crisp.
Are there dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! This salad is gluten-free and low-calorie, making it suitable for various dietary needs. If you have allergies, be cautious with added ingredients like cheese or certain herbs. Always check for individual sensitivities, especially if making this for guests or family!
Can I make the Cucumber Tomato Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a day in advance! Just remember to wait to add any fresh herbs until right before serving. This keeps their flavor vibrant and prevents them from wilting, making sure your salad looks great and tastes fresh!
Crisp Cucumber Tomato Salad with Fresh Herb Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by slicing the English cucumber into thin rounds and dicing the large ripe tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Thinly slice the medium red onion for added flavor.
- In a spacious bowl, gently combine the sliced cucumbers, diced tomatoes, and red onion.
- If you're using fresh herbs, toss them in now.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently.
- Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 20 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with extra herbs or crumbled feta cheese before serving.