There are few dishes that capture the essence of freshness and simplicity quite like a cucumber and tomato salad. Crisp cucumbers, juicy ripe tomatoes, and a lively dressing come together to create a dish that is both refreshing and tangy. This salad is one of those timeless recipes that fits effortlessly into any meal, whether as a light lunch, a side dish at dinner, or a cooling accompaniment to heavier mains. What makes it ultimate is not only the vibrant flavor but also its versatility—you can prepare it in minutes, customize it to your taste, and enjoy it year-round.
In this recipe, we’ll take you step by step through creating the ultimate cucumber and tomato salad, highlighting the perfect balance of textures and flavors that make this dish a delight.
Ingredients
To prepare this salad, you’ll need:
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2 large ripe tomatoes (or 4 medium), cut into wedges or large chunks
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1 large cucumber, sliced into half-moons (peeled if desired)
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1 small red onion, thinly sliced
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2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
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1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (or lemon juice for extra brightness)
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1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a creamy tang)
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1 clove garlic, minced or grated
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1 teaspoon honey or sugar (to balance acidity)
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley, basil, or dill work beautifully)
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Optional additions: crumbled feta cheese, kalamata olives, or avocado slices
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Vegetables
Start by washing the cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers into half-moons, leaving the skin on for crunch or peeling if you prefer a softer texture. Cut the tomatoes into wedges or large bite-sized chunks. For best results, choose tomatoes that are firm yet juicy—they provide sweetness that balances the tang of the dressing. Thinly slice the red onion to add a sharp bite that rounds out the salad.
2. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), Dijon mustard, minced garlic, honey, salt, and pepper. This simple dressing is the heart of the salad—it brings brightness, depth, and a pleasant tang. The olive oil smooths everything out, while the garlic adds a gentle punch. If you want a lighter version, skip the mustard and honey and simply stick to oil and vinegar.
3. Assemble the Salad
Place the cucumber, tomato, and red onion in a large salad bowl. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. The key here is balance—ensure each bite has a little cucumber crunch, juicy tomato, and onion zing.
4. Add Fresh Herbs
Chop your herbs finely and sprinkle them over the salad just before serving. Parsley adds freshness, dill offers a delicate sharpness, and basil brings a touch of sweetness. Use what you enjoy or have on hand; fresh herbs elevate the flavor, making the salad taste even more vibrant.
5. Customize with Extras
While the classic cucumber and tomato combination is unbeatable, you can enhance the salad with extras depending on your mood. Feta cheese crumbles add creaminess and saltiness, kalamata olives contribute a Mediterranean flair, and avocado provides a buttery richness. Each variation brings a unique twist, but the base of cucumber, tomato, onion, and tangy dressing remains the same.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it as:
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A light lunch on its own, especially with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the dressing.
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A side dish with grilled meats, seafood, or poultry. It pairs especially well with barbecue and Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
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A picnic or potluck favorite, since it can be prepared ahead of time and travels well.
If you want to make it more filling, add chickpeas, quinoa, or even pasta to turn it into a heartier salad bowl.
Tips for the Perfect Cucumber and Tomato Salad
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Use ripe, in-season tomatoes. They are the star of the dish, and their natural sweetness is key.
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Salt the cucumbers lightly before mixing. This draws out excess water and keeps the salad from becoming watery.
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Don’t overdress. The vegetables release juice as they sit, so go light on the dressing and add more later if needed.
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Serve fresh. While you can refrigerate the salad for a few hours, it’s best eaten within the same day to preserve crunch and flavor.
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Experiment with vinegars. Red wine vinegar adds tang, balsamic gives sweetness, and apple cider vinegar offers a mild fruity flavor.Why This Salad Stands Out
The ultimate cucumber and tomato salad is a lesson in balance. It takes two humble ingredients—cucumbers and tomatoes—and elevates them with just the right supporting players. The sharpness of onion, the freshness of herbs, the zing of vinegar, and the richness of olive oil create a harmony of flavors. It’s refreshing, tangy, and endlessly customizable, making it a dish that never gets boring.
This salad isn’t just about taste; it’s about the feeling it brings. It reminds us of warm summer days, backyard gatherings, and simple meals enjoyed outdoors. Yet it’s equally satisfying in the colder months, offering a burst of freshness when heavier comfort foods dominate the table.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dish that’s quick, healthy, and bursting with flavor, this cucumber and tomato salad is the answer. It’s proof that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most rewarding. With crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, a tangy dressing, and fragrant herbs, every bite is a fresh delight. Prepare it once, and it may just become a regular on your table—loved by family, friends, and anyone who appreciates the beauty of simple, wholesome food.
