Cucumber Tomato Salad

Cucumber tomato salad always brings me back to sunny afternoons in my backyard linking when I’d pick fresh tomatoes and cucumbers straight from the garden linking the bright colors linking crisp textures linking and juicy bites felt like the perfect way to celebrate summer linking and I loved tossing everything together right there on the patio linking adding a splash of olive oil linking fresh herbs linking and a squeeze of lemon linking it was simple linking quick linking and always so satisfying.

Since then linking this salad has become my favorite go-to side for barbecues linking picnics linking and even just light lunches linking it’s refreshing linking full of flavor linking and so easy to make linking you can prep it in minutes linking and it always disappears fast linking I know it’ll become a staple in your kitchen too!

Ingredients

• Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
• Cherry tomatoes – Sweet and juicy, they add a bright burst of flavor.
• Cucumbers – Refreshing crunch that pairs perfectly with the tomatoes.
• Red onion – Adds a sharp, savory bite and beautiful color.
• Fresh parsley – Brings a fresh, herbaceous note.
• Olive oil – Gives the salad richness and helps tie the flavors together.
• Lemon juice – Adds brightness and balances the oil.
• Salt – Enhances all the natural flavors.
• Black pepper – Adds a hint of warmth and spice.

Tools You’ll Need

• Sharp knife – For slicing the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions evenly.
• Cutting board – Keeps everything tidy and makes prep easier.
• Mixing bowl – Perfect for tossing everything together without making a mess.
• Wooden spoon or salad tongs – For mixing gently to avoid squishing the tomatoes.
• Citrus juicer (optional) – Helps get every drop of juice from the lemon.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the vegetables

I start by slicing the cucumbers into thin rounds and cutting the cherry tomatoes in half. I thinly slice the red onion so it doesn’t overpower the salad.

Step 2: Add to bowl

I place all the sliced vegetables into a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Add herbs

I chop the fresh parsley finely and sprinkle it over the veggies.

Step 4: Dress the salad

I drizzle in the olive oil and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top. Then, I season generously with salt and black pepper.

Step 5: Toss gently

I toss everything together gently so the vegetables are evenly coated without getting smashed.

Step 6: Taste and adjust

I always taste and adjust seasoning, adding more lemon juice, salt, or pepper if needed.

Tips

If you like extra crunch, I sometimes add sliced bell peppers. For even more flavor, try adding crumbled feta cheese or avocado chunks. I also love letting the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving so the flavors can mingle.

Ways to Serve

This cucumber tomato salad is perfect as a side dish with grilled meats or fish. I also love adding it on top of toasted bread for a quick bruschetta or tossing it with cooked pasta for a fresh pasta salad. It’s also great served on its own as a light lunch!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make cucumber tomato salad ahead of time?

Yes! It tastes even better after sitting for a bit. Just keep it in the fridge and add herbs right before serving.

How long does cucumber tomato salad last?

It stays fresh for about 2 days in the refrigerator, though it’s best eaten the same day for the crispest texture.

Can I use different herbs?

Absolutely! Basil, mint, or dill all work beautifully in this salad.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this cucumber tomato salad a try! It’s a bright, easy, and healthy dish that brings so much joy to the table. I’d love to see how you serve it, so share your creations and let me know your favorite add-ins!

Happy Cooking!

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