Cucumber Tomato Salad (Fresh, Simple, and Refreshing)
This Cucumber Tomato Salad is a light, crisp, and refreshing side dish that comes together in minutes. Made with juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and a simple tangy dressing, it’s the perfect complement to grilled meats, sandwiches, or weeknight dinners. With just a handful of ingredients, this salad highlights fresh produce and clean flavors without any heaviness.
Whether you’re serving it at a backyard barbecue, packing it for a picnic, or enjoying it as a quick lunch, this salad is endlessly versatile and easy to customize.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
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Ready in under 10 minutes
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Light, hydrating, and refreshing
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Made with simple pantry ingredients
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Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian
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Perfect for summer meals
Ingredients
Serves 4
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2 large cucumbers, sliced or chopped
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3–4 ripe tomatoes, chopped or wedged
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¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped
Dressing
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3 tablespoons olive oil
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1½ tablespoons red wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
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½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon sugar or honey (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Vegetables
Wash and slice the cucumbers and tomatoes. Place them in a large mixing bowl along with the red onion and fresh herbs.
2. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, salt, pepper, and sugar or honey if using.
3. Toss and Chill
Pour the dressing over the vegetables and gently toss until evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
For best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Cucumber Tomato Salad
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Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for maximum flavor
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English or Persian cucumbers work best for fewer seeds
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Slice onions thin to avoid overpowering the salad
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Chill briefly but don’t let it sit too long to prevent excess liquid
Variations
Mediterranean Style
Add crumbled feta cheese and sliced olives.
Creamy Version
Stir in 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Vinegar-Forward
Use white vinegar for a sharper, old-fashioned taste.
Spicy Kick
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeño.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Stir before serving, as the vegetables release natural juices.
Serving Suggestions
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Grilled chicken, steak, or fish
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Burgers and hot dogs
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Sandwiches or wraps
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Picnic and potluck spreads
Final Thoughts
This Cucumber Tomato Salad is proof that simple ingredients can deliver big flavor. Crisp, juicy, and refreshing, it’s a classic side dish you’ll come back to all season long.