The crisp coolness of cucumbers and the juicy sweetness of cherry tomatoes come together in this garden-fresh salad. Enhanced with a simple vinaigrette of olive oil, vinegar, and herbs, it’s a dish that celebrates the peak flavors of summer produce. This salad is a go-to side for grilled dishes, a fresh topping for sandwiches, or a light and healthy snack on its own. Ready in just minutes and requiring no cooking, it’s ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or sunny afternoons when you crave something refreshing and wholesome.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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3 cups cucumbers, sliced (about 2 medium cucumbers)
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2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
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1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
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1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
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Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions:
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In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onions.
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In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper until well emulsified.
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Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the vegetables.
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Let sit for 10–15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.
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Garnish with freshly chopped parsley just before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes
Kcal: 110 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
A Timeless Classic: The Humble Origins of Cucumber Tomato Salad
Cucumber Tomato Salad is one of those quintessential summer dishes that has been passed down through generations, with countless variations around the world. From Mediterranean meze tables to American backyard barbecues, this refreshing salad has carved a place in countless cuisines due to its simplicity, versatility, and ability to showcase the flavors of fresh, seasonal produce. In many traditional cultures—especially in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Southern Europe—variations of this salad are a daily staple during warmer months.
The classic combination of cucumbers and tomatoes is not only delicious but also symbolic of summer’s bounty. Its roots are humble, grounded in peasant food traditions where people relied on what they grew in their own gardens. Despite its simplicity, this salad stands out for its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and cooling qualities, making it a timeless and globally appreciated dish.
Why This Salad Is a Summer Must-Have
The charm of this Cucumber Tomato Salad lies in its crisp, juicy, and tangy flavor profile. Cucumbers provide a refreshing crunch, while tomatoes contribute a burst of sweetness and acidity. Red onions add sharpness, and a light vinaigrette ties everything together with just the right amount of zest.
This dish is ideal for those hot days when you don’t want to cook—or even turn on the stove. In just 10 minutes, you can have a healthy, flavor-packed side dish ready to complement grilled meats, sandwiches, or plant-based mains. Because it requires no cooking, it’s also an energy-efficient choice and perfect for people looking to eat clean with minimal prep time.
Moreover, it’s an excellent way to use up those summer garden vegetables before they spoil. Many home gardeners find themselves with a surplus of cucumbers and tomatoes, and this salad is the perfect way to let those fresh ingredients shine.
Nutritional Benefits of Cucumber Tomato Salad
Beyond its refreshing taste, Cucumber Tomato Salad packs a punch in terms of nutritional value. Both cucumbers and tomatoes are low in calories but high in essential nutrients. Cucumbers are hydrating and provide a good amount of vitamin K, while tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, potassium, folate, and lycopene—a powerful antioxidant linked to heart health and reduced cancer risk.
Olive oil, used in the vinaigrette, adds healthy fats that support brain and heart health, and it aids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. The addition of red onion and herbs like parsley or oregano not only enhances flavor but also introduces anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compounds into the dish.
For those following plant-based, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or Mediterranean diets, this salad fits perfectly into your meal planning. It’s proof that healthy food doesn’t need to be complicated to be effective and enjoyable.
Versatility and Customization
One of the greatest features of this recipe is its adaptability. You can mix and match ingredients depending on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Here are some popular customizations:
- Add cheese: Feta crumbles or fresh mozzarella balls add creaminess and extra protein.
- Incorporate legumes: Chickpeas or white beans make it heartier and boost fiber content.
- Introduce grains: Adding cooked quinoa or bulgur transforms it into a complete meal.
- Experiment with herbs: Basil, dill, or cilantro can replace or complement parsley and oregano for a new flavor profile.
- Spice it up: A sprinkle of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce gives it a kick for those who love heat.
This flexibility makes the salad a great go-to recipe for families, meal preppers, and entertainers alike. It’s also ideal for people with dietary restrictions or allergies, as it can easily be modified to suit individual needs.
A Perfect Side for Every Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a summer potluck, planning a beach picnic, or looking for a light weekday lunch, this salad fits seamlessly into any scenario. Its colorful appearance makes it visually appealing on any spread, and its clean, bright flavors balance out heavier mains like grilled meats, fried foods, or rich pastas.
Because it’s quick to prepare and travels well, Cucumber Tomato Salad is excellent for potlucks, picnics, and office lunches. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent the veggies from getting soggy. You can also prepare the salad ahead of time and let it marinate for a few hours to deepen the flavor.
Its refreshing nature makes it a favorite among kids and adults alike, encouraging healthy eating without any fuss. For those seeking lighter alternatives to creamy or heavy salads, this dish is a welcome change that doesn’t sacrifice taste.
Global Appeal and Cultural Connections
Cucumber Tomato Salad is a culinary bridge connecting various cultures. In Greece, it resembles Horiatiki (Greek salad), often with olives and feta. In Turkey, it’s part of the “Çoban salatası.” Israeli and Palestinian cuisines celebrate a finely chopped version called “Salat Katzutz.” Russians and Ukrainians also feature a similar salad with sour cream or sunflower oil as the base.
Despite these regional differences, the unifying element is always freshness. This is a dish that honors the land, celebrating ingredients at their peak ripeness with minimal processing.
Its simplicity also underscores a cultural philosophy of letting good ingredients speak for themselves—a notion increasingly embraced in modern clean-eating and slow-food movements.
How to Store and Make Ahead
This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To prevent sogginess, you can store the dressing separately and combine it just before serving. If you’re prepping ahead, consider salting and draining the cucumbers for 10–15 minutes to remove excess moisture, which will help maintain the salad’s crisp texture.
If you make a larger batch, it can also serve as a great base for other meals. Toss in a protein like grilled chicken or tofu for a complete next-day lunch. Add a grain and a squeeze of lemon for a quick grain bowl. The possibilities are endless.
Conclusion
Cucumber Tomato Salad is more than just a simple side dish—it’s a celebration of freshness, nourishment, and culinary tradition. With its crisp texture, vibrant colors, and zesty flavors, this salad brings the best of the garden to your table with minimal effort. It’s endlessly versatile, nutritionally dense, and suitable for almost every diet and occasion.
Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this dish is a must-have in your summer recipe rotation. Make it once, and you’ll see why it’s a staple in kitchens around the world. Add it to your weekly meal plan, share it at your next gathering, or keep it on hand as your go-to light lunch—you really can’t go wrong.
