Spring is right around the corner, which means many of us will soon have an abundance of fresh tomatoes and cucumbers from the garden. What better way to use them than in this easy and refreshing cucumber and tomato salad? This simple salad is crisp, light, and full of flavor, making it the perfect dish for a hot day.
Not only is this salad incredibly easy to make, but it also pairs well with almost any meal. You can bring it to a cookout, serve it as a side for a weeknight dinner, or even enjoy it as a light lunch on its own. With a simple homemade dressing and fresh ingredients, this cucumber and tomato salad is as delicious as it is healthy.
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Why You’ll Love This Cucumber and Tomato Salad
- Quick and Easy: Takes just 10 minutes to prepare.
- Healthy and Refreshing: Made with fresh vegetables and a light dressing.
- Versatile: Great as a side dish or a standalone salad.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.
Tools You’ll Need
To make this cucumber and tomato salad even easier, here are some kitchen tools that will help:
- Sharp Chef’s Knife – A good-quality knife makes chopping cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions a breeze.
- Wooden Cutting Board – Prevents slipping and protects your countertops.
- Mixing Bowls – Great for tossing and marinating the salad.
- Salad Spinner – If you’re washing cucumbers and tomatoes, this helps remove excess water.
- Mason Jars – Perfect for storing leftover dressing or meal-prepping the salad.
These tools will not only make preparation easier but also help streamline the process!
Ingredients & Why They Work
Salad:
- 3 mini cucumbers, diced into large chunks – Mini cucumbers are crisp and have fewer seeds than regular cucumbers, making them perfect for salads.
- 3 large tomatoes, diced into large chunks – Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor and juiciness.
- ½ onion, diced – Red onion adds a slight sharpness and crunch that balances the flavors.
Dressing:
- Apple cider vinegar – Adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor that complements the vegetables.
- Olive oil – Helps coat the salad and enhances the taste.
- Onion powder – Adds subtle depth to the dressing.
- Garlic powder – Provides a mild garlic flavor without being overpowering.
- Salt – Enhances all the flavors.
- Black pepper – Adds a touch of heat and depth.
How to Make Cucumber and Tomato Salad
Step 1: Dice the Vegetables
Wash and dry the cucumbers and tomatoes before dicing them into large chunks. Dice the onion into small pieces to distribute the flavor evenly.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Combine Everything
In a large bowl, add the diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onion. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss everything together until well coated.
Step 4: Let It Marinate
For the best flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes the salad even more delicious.
How to Store and Make Ahead
- Refrigeration: Store the cucumber and tomato salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Make-Ahead Tip: If making ahead, keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to prevent the vegetables from becoming too soft.
Additional Toppings & Variations
Want to switch things up? Try adding these ingredients for extra flavor:
- Blue Cheese: Adds a bold, tangy flavor.
- Feta Cheese: A classic addition that pairs beautifully with tomatoes and cucumbers.
- Mozzarella: Use fresh mozzarella balls for a creamy texture.
- Fresh Dill: Brings a bright, herby freshness to the salad.
What to Serve with Cucumber and Tomato Salad
This salad is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes, including:
- Grilled Chicken – A healthy and protein-packed pairing.
- Steak – The freshness of the salad balances out a rich, juicy steak.
- Seafood – Complements dishes like grilled salmon or shrimp.
- Pasta Dishes – A refreshing side for hearty pasta meals.
Cucumber and Tomato Salad
This refreshing cucumber and tomato salad is a simple, light dish perfect for any meal. Crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes are tossed with a zesty dressing, creating a vibrant and healthy side that’s both easy to make and full of flavor.
Ingredients
- 3 mini cucumbers, diced into large chunks
- 3 large tomatoes, diced into large chunks
- ½ onion, diced
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Wash and dice the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the diced vegetables to a large bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
Tomatoes: Use cherry, grape, or Roma tomatoes. Cherry or grape tomatoes are sweeter and provide a burst of flavor, while Roma tomatoes offer a firmer texture.
Cucumbers: English cucumbers work best for salads because they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin. If using regular cucumbers, peel them to remove the bitter skin.
Red Onion (optional): Adds a mild sharpness. Soaking the red onion in cold water for 10 minutes before adding it can mellow the flavor.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or dill are ideal. Fresh thyme or mint can add an interesting twist.
Cheese (optional): Feta adds a creamy, salty element, while mozzarella gives a softer, milder taste. Crumbled goat cheese is another great option.
Cucumber and tomato salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings out the best of fresh summer produce. Whether you serve it as a side at a barbecue, pair it with grilled meat, or enjoy it as a light meal, this salad is a must-try. With its easy preparation and healthy ingredients, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Give this recipe a try and let me know how you like it in the comments below!
Looking for more meal ideas? Be sure to check out our 7-day dinner ideas and meal prep posts for easy, delicious meals throughout the week!
