This Cucumber Tomato Salad is a light, refreshing dish that’s perfect for summer or any time you need a quick, healthy side. With fresh cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette, it’s easy to prepare and full of vibrant flavors. Add a few optional ingredients like feta cheese or olives to take it up a notch. Here’s how to make it.
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, peeled (if desired) and sliced
- 3-4 ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges (Roma, cherry, or heirloom tomatoes all work well)
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Feta cheese, crumbled, for garnish
- Optional: Olives (Kalamata or black), for added flavor
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by peeling and slicing the cucumbers. If you prefer to leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients, feel free to do so. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference. Next, cut the tomatoes into wedges if you’re using larger tomatoes, or halve them if you’re using cherry tomatoes. Thinly slice the red onion and chop the fresh parsley.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, and honey (if using). Season the dressing with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. The honey adds a touch of sweetness that balances the acidity of the vinegar and lemon juice, but it’s optional depending on your flavor preference.
Step 3: Combine the Salad
In a large salad bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, tomato wedges, and red onion. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Add the chopped parsley and toss again to combine.
Step 4: Add Optional Garnishes
If you’re using feta cheese and olives, sprinkle them over the top of the salad for added flavor and texture. Crumbled feta adds a creamy, salty element that pairs well with the fresh vegetables, and Kalamata or black olives add a nice briny contrast.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is combined, let the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish. It’s perfect alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a light stand-alone meal.
Cooking Notes
- Cucumber variety: You can use English cucumbers if you prefer a milder, less seedy option. English cucumbers have a thinner skin, so peeling is often unnecessary.
- Tomato choices: Use whatever tomatoes are ripe and in season. Roma, heirloom, and cherry tomatoes all work well and provide different textures and flavors.
- Onion flavor: If raw red onion is too strong for your taste, soak the sliced onion in cold water for 10-15 minutes before adding it to the salad. This will mellow the sharpness.
Variations
- Mediterranean Twist: Add crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and a sprinkle of oregano for a Mediterranean-inspired salad.
- Avocado Addition: For a creamy twist, add diced avocado just before serving.
- Herb Swap: Replace parsley with fresh basil, dill, or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the salad up to a few hours ahead of time. Store the vegetables and dressing separately, and combine them just before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh.
How long will this salad last in the fridge?
Once dressed, the salad is best enjoyed within a day. The cucumbers and tomatoes will release water over time, making the salad soggy if stored for too long. If you want to store leftovers, keep the dressing separate and mix it in just before serving.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas would make excellent additions to turn this salad into a more filling meal.
This Cucumber Tomato Salad is a simple, refreshing dish that comes together quickly and pairs beautifully with just about any meal. The combination of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette creates a light, flavorful side dish. Whether you add feta and olives for a Mediterranean twist or keep it simple, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!
