Refreshing Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe for Summer Bliss

Crisp, refreshing, and bursting with vibrant flavors, Cucumber Tomato Salad is the perfect sidekick for any meal. Just imagine sinking your teeth into cool cucumber slices mingling with juicy tomatoes, drizzled in a zesty dressing that dances on your palate. It’s like summer on a plate, making every bite an experience to savor.

This salad isn’t just a pretty face; it has stories to tell and memories to create. Picture a sun-drenched picnic blanket where friends gather, laughter fills the air, and this colorful dish steals the show. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a casual dinner party, Cucumber Tomato Salad always finds its way to the spotlight. Get ready for an explosion of flavors that will have you reaching for seconds! For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This Cucumber Tomato Salad is incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings
  • Its fresh flavor profile bursts with color and zest that tantalizes taste buds
  • The visual appeal makes it an Instagram-worthy dish at any gathering or meal
  • Enjoy its versatility as a side dish or light lunch that complements various cuisines effortlessly

I still remember the first time I served this salad at our family BBQ. My Uncle Joe took one bite and declared it “the best thing since sliced bread!” Who knew cucumbers could bring such joy?

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Fresh Cucumbers: Look for firm cucumbers without blemishes for the best crunch and flavor.

  • Ripe Tomatoes: Use juicy tomatoes that are slightly soft but not mushy for optimal sweetness.

  • Red Onion: Choose a small red onion for its mild flavor, which balances well with the other ingredients.

  • Olive Oil: Opt for high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the salad’s richness.

  • Balsamic Vinegar: A splash of balsamic vinegar adds tanginess; choose aged varieties for deeper flavor.

  • Salt and Pepper: Season generously but taste as you go to find that perfect balance.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Cucumber Tomato Salad

How to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad

First things first: Gather your ingredients on a clean countertop so you’re ready to roll.

Chop the Vegetables: Start by washing your cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds and chop tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Remember, uniformity is key here; it makes everything look fancy!

Add Red Onion: Finely slice your red onion—this adds a nice zing! If you’re wary of raw onions’ intensity, soak them in cold water for 10 minutes before adding them to the salad.

Create the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar until well combined. This simple dressing elevates your salad from good to absolutely fantastic.

Toss It All Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine your chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions. Drizzle over the dressing while tossing gently so everything gets coated evenly without bruising those delicate veggies.

Season Smartly: Sprinkle salt and pepper generously over your salad. Taste test—add more if needed! Remember that seasoning brings out all those fabulous flavors hiding in your veggies. For more inspiration, check out this more lunch recipes recipe.

Enjoy immediately or chill briefly before serving—this salad is best enjoyed fresh but can hold up well in the fridge for about an hour!

And there you have it! A Cucumber Tomato Salad that’s as fun to make as it is to eat—perfectly crunchy with bursts of flavor in every forkful!

You Must Know

  • Cucumber Tomato Salad is a refreshing dish that brightens up any meal
  • Its vibrant colors and crisp textures make it a feast for the eyes and taste buds alike
  • Perfect as a side or light lunch, this salad is versatile and easy to prepare

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by chopping fresh cucumbers and juicy tomatoes, then mix them in a bowl with herbs and dressing. This ensures maximum flavor infusion while keeping the ingredients crisp.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ingredients like adding feta cheese, olives, or even avocado for extra creaminess. Experiment with herbs like basil or mint for a personal flair.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Avoid reheating; enjoy this salad chilled for the best flavor and texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For the freshest taste, use ripe tomatoes and crunchy cucumbers
  • Chop everything just before serving to maintain crispness
  • A splash of vinegar elevates the overall flavor profile beautifully

Sometimes, I whip up this salad when friends pop by unexpectedly, and their delight at such simplicity warms my heart every time.

FAQ

Can I add protein to my Cucumber Tomato Salad?

Yes! Grilled chicken or chickpeas are excellent additions for a heartier meal.

What dressing works best with Cucumber Tomato Salad?

A simple vinaigrette or olive oil with lemon juice enhances freshness beautifully.

How do I prevent sogginess in my salad?

Always dry your vegetables thoroughly after washing to keep them crisp longer.

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Cucumber Tomato Salad


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  • Author: Ann Foster
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Crisp and vibrant, this Cucumber Tomato Salad is the ultimate refreshment for any meal. Bursting with flavor, it combines cool cucumber slices and juicy tomatoes, all tossed in a zesty dressing that will awaken your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or need a quick side dish for dinner, this salad is effortlessly delicious and visually appealing. Perfectly balanced and easy to make, it’s a summer classic that everyone will love!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups fresh cucumbers, sliced
  • 2 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 small red onion, finely sliced
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Wash and slice cucumbers into thin rounds; chop tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Finely slice the red onion. If desired, soak in cold water for 10 minutes to reduce intensity.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar for the dressing.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to coat.
  5. Season with salt and pepper; taste and adjust as needed.
  6. Enjoy immediately or chill for up to an hour before serving.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
  • Calories: 80
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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Ann Foster

Chef & Blogger

Hi, I’m Ann Foster! Born and raised in California’s Central Valley, I found my passion for cooking in my grandmother’s kitchen. After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America, I traveled across the country exploring new flavors and cooking techniques. This website is my passion project—where I share delicious recipes meant to bring people together, one meal at a time. Welcome to my culinary journey!

Chef Ann