When summer vegetables are at their best, few dishes are as refreshing as a simple cucumber tomato salad. Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, thin slices of red onion, and a light lemon vinaigrette come together to create a side dish that is fresh, colorful and full of flavor. This salad takes only a few minutes to prepare and pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, sandwiches, roasted meats, or even a light lunch.
Main Essence of This Dish
The beauty of cucumber tomato salad lies in its simplicity. Fresh ingredients do most of the work, while a light dressing enhances their natural flavors. The combination of crunchy cucumber, sweet tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and tangy dressing creates a balanced salad that feels light yet satisfying.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| English cucumber, thinly sliced | 1 large |
| Large ripe tomatoes, chopped | 2 |
| Red onion, thinly sliced | 1/2 cup |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Red wine vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Sea salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Fresh basil, parsley, dill, or mint | 1/2 cup chopped |
| Flaky sea salt (optional) | For serving |
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How to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad
- Wash and prepare all vegetables. Slice the cucumber into thin half-moons, chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces, and thinly slice the red onion.
- Add the cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion to a large mixing bowl.
- Pour in the lemon juice and red wine vinegar.
- Season with sea salt and black pepper, then gently toss everything together.
- Allow the mixture to chill in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes so the vegetables absorb the flavors.
- Transfer the salad to a serving bowl, leaving excess liquid behind if desired.
- Drizzle with olive oil and add the chopped fresh herbs.
- Toss lightly until everything is evenly coated.
- Finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and serve immediately.
What You Can Do Better
- Use vine-ripened or garden-fresh tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Try mixing basil, dill, and parsley instead of using just one herb.
- Let the salad rest for 10 to 15 minutes before serving to develop deeper flavor.
- Add crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean-style variation.
- Include sliced avocado for extra creaminess.
- Use Persian cucumbers if you prefer a sweeter and crunchier texture.
- For extra brightness, add a little lemon zest to the dressing.
Serving Suggestions
This cucumber tomato salad works well as a side dish for grilled chicken, fish, burgers, wraps, and sandwiches. It is also excellent alongside rice dishes, barbecue meals, or as part of a summer picnic spread.
Storage Tips
The salad is best enjoyed fresh on the day it is made. However, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the vegetables will release moisture over time making the salad slightly softer.
Also Read: Chicken Piccata Recipe
Nutritional Information
Approximate values per serving (based on 4 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 95 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 7 g |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 420 mg |
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