When summer rolls around, there’s nothing more refreshing than a crisp, colorful salad that bursts with flavor.
One of the easiest and most delicious options? Cucumber Tomato Salad. This classic dish is a staple in many kitchens — and for good reason.
It’s light, hydrating, packed with nutrients, and incredibly simple to prepare.
Whether you’re serving it as a side dish at a barbecue, bringing it to a potluck, or enjoying it as a light lunch, cucumber tomato salad is always a hit.
Also Check: How To Prepare Blackberry Vinaigrette
Why You’ll Love This Salad
There are a few reasons why cucumber tomato salad has stood the test of time:
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Quick and easy to make: You only need a handful of ingredients and less than 15 minutes to prepare.
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Fresh and hydrating: Cucumbers and tomatoes are high in water content, making this salad the perfect cooling dish on a hot day.
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Versatile: You can easily add extras like red onions, avocado, or feta cheese to customize it to your taste.
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Healthy: This salad is naturally low in calories and full of vitamins like A, C, and K.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need for a basic cucumber tomato salad:
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2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved (or chopped Roma tomatoes)
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1 large cucumber, sliced thin or diced
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¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (or lemon juice)
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Fresh herbs (like parsley, dill, or basil), chopped
Optional Add-ins: Crumbled feta cheese, sliced avocado, kalamata olives, or a pinch of garlic powder for extra flavor.
How to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad
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Prep the veggies: Wash the tomatoes and cucumbers thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers and halve the tomatoes. Thinly slice the red onion.
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Combine in a bowl: Toss the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions together in a large salad bowl.
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Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), salt, and pepper.
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Mix and chill: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat. Sprinkle with fresh herbs. Let the salad sit in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before serving for the flavors to blend.
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Serve and enjoy: Serve cold as a side dish or add protein like grilled chicken to make it a complete meal.
Related Post: Chicken Ceasar Salad
Serving Suggestions
Cucumber tomato salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, seafood, or other picnic favorites.
It’s also a great choice to serve alongside:
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Grilled chicken or steak
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Roasted potatoes or corn on the cob
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Pita bread and hummus
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Baked fish or shrimp skewers
Tips for Best Results
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Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor.
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English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers work great because they’re less watery and don’t need to be peeled.
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If you’re making this ahead of time, wait to add the dressing until right before serving to avoid soggy cucumbers.
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A sprinkle of feta or mozzarella pearls can turn this salad into something extra special.
Read More: Chicken Salad Chick Grape Salad
Health Benefits
Not only is this salad tasty, but it’s also packed with nutritional benefits:
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Cucumbers are hydrating, promote digestion, and are rich in antioxidants.
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Tomatoes are a great source of vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene — an antioxidant linked to many health benefits.
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Olive oil adds heart-healthy fats, and fresh herbs like parsley and basil provide anti-inflammatory properties.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make cucumber tomato salad ahead of time?
Yes! But for the freshest texture, store the salad and dressing separately and combine right before serving.
Q: What kind of cucumbers are best?
English or Persian cucumbers are ideal. They have thin skins and fewer seeds, making them perfect for salads.
Q: Can I add cheese or protein to make it a full meal?
Absolutely! Feta cheese, grilled chicken, or chickpeas are great additions.
Q: How long does it last in the fridge?
It’s best eaten within 24 hours, but you can keep it up to 2 days in an airtight container.
Cucumber Tomato Salad is a timeless dish that’s not only easy to make but also nourishing and vibrant.
With just a few ingredients and endless customization options, it’s a go-to recipe for any time of year — especially when fresh produce is in season.
Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s a salad worth making again and again.
