Cucumber Tomato Salad

Name: Cucumber Tomato Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 8 Small Vine Cocktail Tomatoes; 1 English Cucumber; 1/4 Red Onion (thinly sliced); 2 Tablespoons Fresh Parsley (chopped); 2 Tablespoons Fresh Cilantro (chopped); 1 Pinch Brown Sugar; 2 Pinches Salt; 2 Pinches Pepper; 1/2 Cup Olive Oil; 1/4 Cup Red Wine Vinegar; 1 Squeeze Lemon Juice; 1 Pinch Pepper; 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt; 3 Cloves Garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon Brown Sugar; 1 teaspoon Dried Basil (or 2 teaspoons fresh, chopped)

Published: June 2, 2025

by Nora

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Cucumber Tomato Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly complements any meal. This salad showcases the delightful combination of ripe tomatoes and crisp cucumbers, providing a burst of flavor in every bite. It’s ideal for summer barbecues, picnics, or as a light side dish to your favorite grilled proteins. With its fresh herbs and zesty dressing, this salad stands out not just for its taste, but also for its simplicity and health benefits.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 20 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
Fresh Ingredients: Using seasonal produce ensures maximum flavor and nutrition in every serving.
Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a side dish or a light meal on its own. It pairs well with various cuisines.
Healthy Choice: Packed with vitamins, this salad offers a low-calorie option full of fresh veggies.
No Cooking Required: Easy to assemble with no need for cooking, making it suitable for hot days when you want to keep things cool.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness of Cucumber Tomato Salad, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Sharp Knife
Cutting Board
Glass Measuring Cup
Mixing Bowl
Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

Sharp Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing vegetables quick and easy, ensuring clean cuts without crushing your produce.
Mixing Bowl: Large mixing bowls are essential for combining all your ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
Whisk: A whisk helps to emulsify the dressing ingredients effectively, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

Ingredients

For the Salad

8 Small Vine Cocktail Tomatoes (not grape or cherry)
1 English Cucumber
1 Pinch Brown Sugar
1/4 Red Onion (thinly sliced)
2 Tablespoons Parsley (fresh, chopped)
2 Tablespoons Cilantro (fresh, chopped)
2 Pinches Salt
2 Pinches Pepper

For the Dressing

1/2 Cup Olive Oil
1/4 Cup Red Wine Vinegar
1 Squeeze Lemon Juice
1 Pinch Pepper
1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
3 Cloves Garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon Brown Sugar
1 teaspoon Dried Basil (or 2 teaspoons fresh, chopped)

How to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes

Cut each tomato into 6-8 wedges and then halve them. This allows for more surface area to absorb the dressing.

Step 2: Slice the Cucumber

Trim both ends off the cucumber.
Slice it in half lengthwise to create two long pieces.
Cut into 1/4 pieces for a satisfying crunch.

Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, toss together the tomato wedges with brown sugar, red onion slices, parsley, cilantro, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a glass measuring cup, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, brown sugar, dried basil, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 5: Final Touch

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture in the bowl.
Cover with plastic wrap and let it marinate on the counter for 1 to 6 hours or refrigerate if preparing ahead of time.

This Cucumber Tomato Salad is best served on the same day it’s made but can be enjoyed later too! Serve it alongside grilled meats or toasted crostini for a complete meal experience.

How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Salad

Cucumber Tomato Salad is a versatile dish that pairs well with many meals. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for summer gatherings or weeknight dinners. Here are some delightful ways to serve this salad.

As a Side Dish

Complement grilled chicken or fish with the vibrant flavors of this salad.
Pair it with hearty sandwiches for a balanced meal.

On Crostini

Spoon the salad onto toasted crostini for an easy appetizer.
Add a sprinkle of feta cheese on top for extra flavor.

As a Light Lunch

Serve it alone or alongside whole grain pita bread.
Combine with hummus for a nutritious midday meal.

With Grains

Mix the salad with cooked quinoa or couscous for a satisfying bowl.
It enhances the flavor of brown rice dishes as well.

How to Perfect Cucumber Tomato Salad

To achieve the best Cucumber Tomato Salad, follow these simple tips that enhance freshness and flavor.

Use fresh ingredients: Choose ripe tomatoes and crisp cucumbers for the best taste.
Let it marinate: Allow the salad to sit for at least one hour before serving. This helps develop flavors.
Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and acidity according to your preference.
Experiment with herbs: Try adding mint or dill for a unique twist on classic flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Tomato Salad

Cucumber Tomato Salad makes an excellent accompaniment to various dishes. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

Grilled Chicken – Juicy grilled chicken breast complements the salad’s freshness perfectly.
Fish Tacos – The bright flavors of this salad balance spicy fish tacos beautifully.
Pasta Primavera – A colorful vegetable pasta dish pairs nicely with the refreshing qualities of the salad.
Stuffed Bell Peppers – These hearty peppers filled with grains and veggies make a filling side.
Roasted Vegetables – Simple roasted veggies add warmth and depth alongside the cool salad.
Quinoa Bowl – A protein-packed quinoa bowl becomes even more delicious when served with this refreshing salad.
Caprese Skewers – Mozzarella, basil, and tomato skewers offer a delightful Mediterranean touch when paired together.
Flatbreads – Serve warm flatbreads on the side to scoop up this vibrant salad easily.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Cucumber Tomato Salad, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

Using the wrong tomatoes: Always opt for vine tomatoes instead of grape or cherry varieties for the best flavor and texture.
Skipping the salt: Salt enhances flavor. Don’t forget to season your salad properly with kosher salt.
Not letting it marinate: Allowing the salad to sit for at least 1 hour helps flavors meld together. Avoid serving immediately after mixing.
Cutting ingredients unevenly: Uniform cuts ensure even mixing and a pleasant texture. Aim for consistent sizes when slicing vegetables.
Forgetting about acidity: The balance of acid is crucial. Ensure you use enough vinegar and lemon juice for a bright taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing Cucumber Tomato Salad

Not recommended: Freezing can change the texture of cucumbers and tomatoes, making them mushy upon thawing.

Reheating Cucumber Tomato Salad

Oven: Not ideal; this salad is best served cold or at room temperature.
Microwave: Avoid microwaving as it will alter the crisp texture of the ingredients.
Stovetop: Not applicable; this salad is meant to be enjoyed fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I add to my Cucumber Tomato Salad?

You can customize your Cucumber Tomato Salad by adding feta cheese, olives, or other fresh herbs like dill or mint for extra flavor.

How long does Cucumber Tomato Salad last?

Cucumber Tomato Salad lasts in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh within the first day.

Can I make Cucumber Tomato Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

Is Cucumber Tomato Salad healthy?

Absolutely! It’s low in calories and packed with vitamins from fresh vegetables, making it a great light and refreshing side dish.

Final Thoughts

The Cucumber Tomato Salad is not only simple to prepare but also versatile and delicious. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or herbs. Try making this refreshing salad today; it’s perfect for summer gatherings or as a side dish with any meal!

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