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This Cucumber Tomato Salad is the epitome of simplicity and freshness, offering a crisp, hydrating bite in every forkful.
What makes it so special is its no-cook convenience—just slice, toss, and chill.
Perfect for busy weeknights, light lunches, or backyard gatherings, it’s both incredibly quick and universally appealing.
Health-wise, this salad is a nutrient-packed powerhouse. It’s low in calories and carbs, yet high in fiber and water content, making it ideal for weight management and digestion.
The olive oil provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, while tomatoes bring antioxidants like lycopene and vitamin C.
With just 2g of plant-based protein and 2g of fiber per serving, it’s light yet satisfying.
This recipe is a go-to for anyone seeking a refreshing, low-effort side that’s wholesome, customizable, and great for meal prep.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
OXO Good Grips Chef’s Knife
Essential for clean, efficient slicing of cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes. Its precision edge ensures uniform cuts that enhance texture and visual appeal—perfect for any daily prep.
Cuisinart Stainless Steel Mixing Bowl
Great for tossing and marinating the salad. Its wide shape and durable construction make mixing easy and mess-free. A versatile staple for salads, baking, and beyond.
Fullstar Vegetable Chopper
Speeds up dicing tomatoes and slicing cucumbers. Especially handy for prepping large batches or if you want consistent cuts. A major time-saver in any kitchen.
FineDine Glass Storage Containers with Lids
Ideal for marinating and storing the salad. Keeps ingredients fresh longer and lets flavors blend perfectly. Doubles as meal-prep or leftover storage.
OXO Good Grips Salad Dressing Shaker
Perfect for mixing and pouring the olive oil–vinegar dressing evenly. Prevents spills and offers controlled pouring. Great for all your homemade dressings.
Cucumber Tomato Red Onion Salad
Equipment
- 1 Chef’s knife
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Mixing Bowl
- 1 Measuring Spoon Set
- 1 Salad Dressing Shaker or Jar (optional)
- 1 Storage Container with Lid (for chilling)
Ingredients
- 1 large English cucumber thinly sliced
- 2 to 3 ripe tomatoes chopped into bite-sized pieces
- ½ medium red onion thinly sliced into half-moons
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, basil, or dill — or a mix (optional)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Fresh Produce: Begin by washing and drying your vegetables thoroughly. Slice the cucumber into thin, even rounds. Cut the tomatoes into small, bite-sized chunks, and slice the red onion thinly into half-moon shapes for mild flavor and visual appeal.
- Combine in a Large Bowl: Place the sliced cucumber, diced tomatoes, and onion into a large mixing bowl. If using herbs, sprinkle them over the vegetables for added brightness and a pop of flavor.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle the olive oil and red wine vinegar over the mixture. Add a generous pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything gently but thoroughly until the vegetables are evenly coated in the dressing.
- Chill to Enhance Flavor: over the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and makes the salad more refreshing.
- Serve and Enjoy: Give the salad a final toss before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve cold as a light side dish to complement grilled meats, sandwiches, or hearty mains.
Notes
- Tomato Tip: Use the ripest tomatoes you can find for the best flavor. Roma, heirloom, or vine-ripened tomatoes work beautifully. If they’re very juicy, you can remove some seeds to prevent watering down the salad.
- Cucumber Options: English cucumbers are ideal due to their thin skin and minimal seeds. If using garden cucumbers, consider peeling them and scooping out the seeds.
- Flavor Boost: Add a small clove of minced garlic or a splash of lemon juice for extra zing. Crumbled feta or diced avocado also make excellent add-ins.
- Make Ahead: This salad tastes even better after chilling for an hour, making it perfect for preparing in advance.
- Storage: Best enjoyed the same day, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving again.
Chef’s Secrets for Salad Success
The beauty of this cucumber tomato salad lies in the freshness of the ingredients and the balance of flavors.
To get the most out of this dish, use the freshest vegetables you can find—ripe, juicy tomatoes and crisp cucumbers will deliver the most flavor and texture.
English cucumbers are a preferred choice because their thin skin doesn’t require peeling and they have fewer seeds.
For the onions, soaking sliced red onion in cold water for 5–10 minutes before adding to the salad can mellow their sharpness while preserving their vibrant crunch.
When it comes to the dressing, whisking the olive oil and vinegar together before tossing with the veggies ensures even coating.
Letting the salad chill for at least 20 minutes is not just a suggestion—it’s key to letting the flavors meld and intensify.
Best Ways to Serve This Salad
This salad is wonderfully versatile and pairs well with a wide variety of dishes.
It’s a refreshing side for grilled meats like chicken, steak, or fish, and balances out heavier mains like casseroles or pasta.
You can also serve it as a light lunch over a bed of greens or alongside a slice of crusty bread.
For a Mediterranean twist, add a sprinkle of feta cheese or a handful of kalamata olives. It also shines on a summer picnic table, at potlucks, or as part of a mezze platter.
Because it’s dairy-free and plant-based, it easily fits into vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free menus, making it a crowd-pleaser for nearly any occasion.
Smart Storage Tips and Tricks
While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, it can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Store it in an airtight container to preserve its crispness and prevent the dressing from turning the vegetables soggy too quickly.
If you’re preparing it in advance for a gathering, consider storing the dressing separately and tossing it just before serving.
Avoid freezing the salad as the cucumbers and tomatoes have high water content and will lose their texture once thawed.
If any liquid collects at the bottom of the bowl, give the salad a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions Answered
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. For best results, store the vegetables and dressing separately and combine them about 30 minutes before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
2. What kind of vinegar works best?
Red wine vinegar adds a subtle tang that complements the tomatoes beautifully. However, white wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or even balsamic vinegar can be used for slightly different flavor profiles.
3. Can I add protein to this salad?
Absolutely! For a heartier version, toss in some grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even cubed tofu. Feta or mozzarella pearls can also add both protein and creaminess.
4. How do I keep the cucumbers from getting soggy?
You can sprinkle the sliced cucumbers with a little salt and let them sit for 10–15 minutes, then pat them dry. This helps draw out excess water and keeps the salad crisper longer.
5. Is this recipe keto or low-carb friendly?
Yes, this salad is naturally low in carbohydrates and free of added sugars. It’s a great option for keto or low-carb eating plans, especially when paired with a protein source.
This recipe is inspired by spendwithpennies and has been carefully refined to enhance clarity, streamline preparation steps, and ensure accurate results. We’ve also included health benefits, nutritional highlights, and Must-Have Tools to help you get the best results every time you cook.