You know that feeling when you’re staring at your fridge, hoping for inspiration, and all you see is a lonely cucumber, some cherry tomatoes, and maybe a red onion giving you the side-eye? Well… plot twist — those sad veggies can transform into the most refreshing, crisp, and flavor-packed salad you’ve ever had.
Seriously, a cucumber tomato salad is the ultimate “effort-to-reward” dish. It’s quick, healthy, and so versatile that you can serve it with anything — from grilled chicken to pasta, or just inhale it straight out of the mixing bowl (no judgment here).
And yes, I’ve made this salad way more times than I care to admit — partly because I’m obsessed, and partly because it takes zero brainpower to pull together.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
If you need convincing that cucumbers and tomatoes belong together (aside from, you know, the fact that they taste amazing), here’s why this salad is worth making ASAP:
- It’s insanely quick. We’re talking 10 minutes tops. No roasting, no marinating for hours, no complicated steps.
- It’s healthy without trying too hard. You get vitamins, hydration, and antioxidants — all while it tastes like summer in a bowl.
- It’s budget-friendly. Fresh, affordable ingredients. That’s it.
- It works with anything. BBQs, brunches, lazy Tuesday lunches… it’s your new go-to side dish.
And let’s be honest — it’s way more exciting than lettuce drowning in ranch dressing.
What Makes a Great Cucumber Tomato Salad?
Okay, so here’s the deal: anyone can chop a cucumber and some tomatoes, but the difference between a meh salad and an “OMG I need seconds” salad comes down to a few key things.
1. Fresh, Quality Ingredients
You can’t hide behind a fancy dressing here — this salad lives and dies by the freshness of its produce. Crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes make all the difference. IMO, if your tomatoes taste like cardboard, skip this recipe and make soup instead.
2. Balanced Dressing
You want tangy from vinegar or lemon juice, richness from olive oil, and just the right hit of salt and pepper. Sweetness is optional, but a tiny sprinkle of sugar can make the tomatoes taste even more vibrant.
3. The Right Ratio
Too much cucumber? It’s bland. Too many tomatoes? It’s watery. Keep them balanced and add something bold — like red onion or fresh basil — to make the flavors pop.
Choosing the Best Cucumbers and Tomatoes
I know, it sounds picky, but trust me — your choice here matters.
Best Cucumbers
- English cucumbers are my top pick. Thin skin, small seeds, crisp bite.
- Persian cucumbers are also great — slightly sweeter, still crunchy.
- Avoid big, waxy cucumbers unless you peel them (unless you like chewing through plastic).
Best Tomatoes
- Cherry or grape tomatoes are perfect. They’re sweet, bite-sized, and hold their shape.
- Mix red, yellow, and orange varieties for an Instagram-worthy bowl.
- If you only have regular tomatoes, go for firm and ripe ones — then cut out the watery cores.
Dressing Secrets You’ll Want to Steal
Here’s where we turn “just vegetables” into a flavor explosion.
- Olive Oil: Use the good stuff — extra virgin with a fruity, peppery note.
- Acid: Balsamic vinegar gives sweetness and depth; lemon juice makes it bright and zesty. You can even use apple cider vinegar for a sharper tang.
- Seasoning: Salt wakes up the cucumbers, pepper adds warmth, and red pepper flakes bring a subtle kick.
- Herbs: Fresh basil is classic, but parsley, dill, or mint can also work wonders.
Pro tip: Mix your dressing in a separate bowl before adding it to the salad. That way, every bite gets coated evenly.
Add-Ins to Level It Up
This salad is perfect on its own, but if you want to get creative…
- Cheese: Feta (regular or vegan) adds a salty, creamy element.
- Protein: Chickpeas, grilled chicken, or even canned tuna can make it a full meal.
- Crunch: Toasted pine nuts, sunflower seeds, or croutons for texture.
- Sweetness: Fresh corn or diced mango for a surprising twist.
Tips for Making the Best Cucumber Tomato Salad
- Salt the cucumbers first if you want to prevent excess water. Just sprinkle salt, let them sit for 10 minutes, and drain before mixing.
- Serve it cold — this salad is way more refreshing when chilled.
- Make it last — store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors actually get better after a few hours.
Pairing Ideas
This salad isn’t just a side dish — it’s a social butterfly that plays well with almost everything:
- Grilled meats (steak, chicken, fish — you name it)
- Pasta dishes for a fresh contrast
- Pita bread and hummus for a Mediterranean vibe
- BBQ spreads alongside potato salad and coleslaw
Cucumber Tomato Salad Full Recipe
Equipment
- 9×13-inch or 3-quart baking dish
- Medium mixing bowl
- Small whisk or fork for dressing
- Cutting board and knife
Ingredients
- 1 long English cucumber, rinsed (approx. 2 cups / 320 g)
- 12 oz cherry or grape tomatoes, halved (approx. 2 cups / 340 g)
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced (approx. ½ cup / 70 g)
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, torn or sliced (about 20 leaves / 6 g)
- 3 tbsp olive oil (38 g)
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar or lemon juice (36 g)
- ½ tsp sugar, optional (1 g)
- 1 ½ tsp Italian seasoning, optional (1.5 g)
- ½ tsp salt (3 g)
- ½ tsp black pepper or red pepper flakes (1 g)
- ⅔ cup crumbled vegan feta, optional (67 g)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Cucumbers
Cut the cucumber into ½-inch thick slices. Then, cut each slice into quarters. You want them bite-sized but still crunchy.
Step 2: Chop the Tomatoes & Onion
Halve the cherry or grape tomatoes. Thinly slice the red onion so it doesn’t overpower the salad.
Step 3: Mix the Veggies
In a medium mixing bowl, combine cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and fresh basil.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice), sugar (if using), Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper or red pepper flakes. Whisk until smooth and emulsified.
Step 5: Toss Everything Together
Pour the dressing over the cucumber tomato mixture. Use a spoon to gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
Step 6: Add the Cheese (Optional)
If using vegan feta, crumble it in and give the salad one final toss.
Step 7: Taste Test & Adjust
Try a bite. Add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if you like a bit more punch.
Step 8: Chill & Serve
Serve immediately for a crisp, fresh crunch — or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors mingle.
Storage Tip: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The cucumbers will soften over time, but the flavor will still be amazing.
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)
Based on 6 servings, including vegan feta and balsamic vinegar.
- Calories: 124 kcal
- Protein: 2 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Vitamin C: 18% DV
- Vitamin A: 12% DV
- Potassium: 330 mg
Note: If you skip the cheese, you’ll save around 25 calories and 1.5 g of fat per serving.
Why This Salad Is My Summer MVP
Every summer BBQ I’ve ever hosted? This salad shows up. Okay, I show up with it because, let’s be honest, it’s ridiculously easy to throw together right before guests arrive.
It’s the kind of dish that doesn’t need a hot stove, fancy plating, or even a strict recipe. And when the heat outside feels like a personal attack, you’ll thank yourself for not turning on the oven.
FAQs About Cucumber Tomato Salad
1. Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely. In fact, making it a couple of hours early lets the flavors mingle like old friends.
2. Do I have to use balsamic vinegar?
Nope. Lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, or even white wine vinegar all work.
3. Can I skip the cheese?
Totally. The salad is still delicious without it, but feta (or vegan feta) adds a creamy punch.
4. What if I only have regular tomatoes?
No problem. Just remove the watery cores so the salad doesn’t get soggy.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Use an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to 4 days, though the cucumbers will soften over time.
Final Thoughts
A cucumber tomato salad is proof that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most satisfying. With fresh ingredients, a zesty dressing, and a few personal touches, you can whip up a side dish that’s healthy, vibrant, and way more exciting than anything pre-packaged.
So next time you spot those cucumbers and tomatoes in your fridge, you know what to do. And if anyone asks for the recipe? Just smile and say, “It’s my secret weapon.” 😉
