A cucumber and tomato salad is one of those dishes that never goes out of style. Crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes come together with olive oil and a splash of vinegar to create a refreshing cold salad that is simple and satisfying. It’s an easy-to-make side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, pasta, or even a loaf of crusty bread.
For me, this salad always feels like summer. When the garden is overflowing with ripe tomatoes and fresh cucumbers, this is the recipe I turn to again and again. It’s a healthy dish idea that highlights the natural flavors of the season without much effort.
The bright acidity of the tomatoes, the crunch of the cucumber, and the fragrant onions all work together to deliver a salad that’s as fresh as it gets.
Perfect for a quick salad, cold appetizer, or healthy side dish paired with dinner. Change up the ingredients and invent your version of this tomato and cucumber salad.
NOTE
Before beginning the recipe remember to read the “Invent Your Recipe” section below for additional suggestions, recipe combinations, or ingredient alternatives.
How To Make Cucumber and Tomato Salad
How To Prepare Cucumber and Tomato Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients and mix thoroughly to incorporate.
How To Serve Cucumber and Tomato Salad:
- Place the cucumber and tomato salad in a large serving bowl. For best results, place the salad into the refrigerator for a least 2 hours before serving.
Invent Your Recipe
A cucumber and tomato salad is one of those dishes that’s endlessly adaptable. With just a few swaps or additions, you can change the flavor profile to suit the season, your mood, or simply what you already have on hand.
Here are some ideas to help you make it your own:
Cucumbers
- Use English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers for a milder flavor and fewer seeds.
- If you like extra crunch, try slicing garden cucumbers thin and salting them lightly to draw out water before tossing in the salad.
Tomatoes
- Cherry or grape tomatoes bring sweetness and color.
- Heirloom tomatoes add a rustic look and bold flavor.
- In the off-season, sun-dried tomatoes can boost the tomato flavor when fresh ones aren’t at their best.
Onions & Aromatics
- Red onion is classic, but shallots or green onions work nicely for a softer bite.
- Add minced garlic for a sharper flavor, or leave it out if you prefer something lighter.
Herbs
- Fresh basil gives an Italian feel, while dill or parsley lean Mediterranean.
- Mint adds a refreshing twist, especially in summer.
- Cilantro works well if you’re pairing the salad with spiced or grilled dishes.
Cheese & Extras
- Crumbled feta, goat cheese, or mozzarella pearls make the salad more filling.
- Toss in olives, capers, or artichoke hearts for a salty punch.
- Add chickpeas or white beans to turn it into a protein-packed side or light lunch.
Dressings
- A simple drizzle of olive oil and red wine vinegar keeps it classic.
- Lemon juice or balsamic vinegar adds brightness.
- For creaminess, whisk a spoonful of Greek yogurt into your dressing.
The beauty of this salad is how easily it adapts. Mix and match to create a version that fits your taste and your table.
For more ideas like this, cucumber and tomato salad, check out more side dish recipes.
This Italian cucumber and tomato salad is proof that a few fresh ingredients can create something truly delicious. It’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and a reliable cold salad to keep in your recipe rotation.
Whether you’re looking for an easy-to-make dish for busy weeknights or a refreshing side for your next gathering, this simple combination of cucumber, tomato, and herbs always delivers.
The Recipe
Cucumber and Tomato Salad
Ingredients
- 6 plum tomatoes sliced
- 1 large or 2 small cucumbers sliced
- 1 small red onion sliced
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
How To Prepare Cucumber and Tomato Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients and mix thoroughly to incorporate.
How To Serve Cucumber and Tomato Salad:
- Place the cucumber and tomato salad in a large serving bowl. For best results, place the salad into the refrigerator for a least 2 hours before serving.
Invent Your Recipe
- Use English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers for a milder flavor and fewer seeds.
- If you like extra crunch, try slicing garden cucumbers thin and salting them lightly to draw out water before tossing in the salad.
- Cherry or grape tomatoes bring sweetness and color.
- Heirloom tomatoes add a rustic look and bold flavor.
- In the off-season, sun-dried tomatoes can boost the tomato flavor when fresh ones aren’t at their best.
- Red onion is classic, but shallots or green onions work nicely for a softer bite.
- Add minced garlic for a sharper flavor, or leave it out if you prefer something lighter.
- Fresh basil gives an Italian feel, while dill or parsley lean Mediterranean.
- Mint adds a refreshing twist, especially in summer.
- Cilantro works well if you’re pairing the salad with spiced or grilled dishes.
- Crumbled feta, goat cheese, or mozzarella pearls make the salad more filling.
- Toss in olives, capers, or artichoke hearts for a salty punch.
- Add chickpeas or white beans to turn it into a protein-packed side or light lunch.
- A simple drizzle of olive oil and red wine vinegar keeps it classic.
- Lemon juice or balsamic vinegar adds brightness.
- For creaminess, whisk a spoonful of Greek yogurt into your dressing.
Nutrition
