How to Make the Best Cucumber Tomato Salad

Hey there, fellow food lovers! 🌞 Are you ready to dive into a refreshing, easy-to-make salad that’s perfect for those warm summer days? Look no further! Today, I’m excited to share with you my secret to creating the best cucumber tomato salad that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re planning a picnic, a quick family dinner, or just need a light and delicious side dish, this recipe has got you covered. Plus, it’s one of those quick recipes that can be ready in no time—because who doesn’t love a 30-minute meal? 😊

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light, fresh, and bursting with flavor—perfect for summer!
• Ready in just 30 minutes—great for weeknight dinner ideas or quick family dinners.
• Customizable to your taste—add your favorite herbs or a sprinkle of cheese for extra flair.
• Healthy and guilt-free—packed with fresh veggies and a simple vinaigrette.
• Make-ahead friendly—prep it in the morning and let it chill until dinner time.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this fresh and flavorful cucumber tomato salad:

• 1 English cucumber (sliced into rounds then quartered)
• 2 cups grape tomatoes (sliced in half)
• ½ cup red onion (sliced into thin strips)
• 2 Tbsp chopped parsley
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 Tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 Tbsp granulated sugar (or honey)
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp ground black pepper

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s walk through the simple steps to create this delicious cucumber tomato salad:

1. Wash and chop the vegetables. Slice the cucumber into rounds then slice each one into quarters. Slice the red onion into thin strips. Slice the grape tomatoes in half.
2. Mix together the salad dressing ingredients in a small bowl: olive oil, red wine vinegar, granulated sugar, dried basil, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the chopped vegetables to a large bowl. Drizzle the salad dressing overtop. Toss everything together. Cover with a lid or plastic wrap and place in the fridge for 2 hours to let vegetables absorb the dressing flavors. Stir together just before serving.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are a few tips to take your cucumber tomato salad to the next level:

• Let it marinate! The longer the salad sits, the more flavorful it becomes. Prep it in the morning for a quick family dinner in the evening.
• Add a bit of crunch by tossing in some crumbled feta cheese or toasted pine nuts.
• For a sweeter twist, swap the granulated sugar for honey or maple syrup.
• Swap the red onion for shallots if you prefer a milder flavor.

How to Serve

This salad is as versatile as it is delicious! Here are a few ways to serve it:

• As a side dish for grilled meats, fish, or quick recipes like buffalo cauliflower.
• As a light lunch on its own or paired with a slice of crusty bread.
• As a topping for salads or wraps for extra freshness and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

One of the best things about this cucumber tomato salad is that it’s a great make-ahead option. Prep it up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. The flavors will only get better with time! For storage, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

There you have it—my go-to recipe for the best cucumber tomato salad that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s light, fresh, and full of flavor, making it a must-have for your summer menu. Whether you’re looking for quick family dinners or easy pasta recipes, this salad pairs perfectly with just about anything. So go ahead, give it a try, and let me know what you think in the comments below! 🥗✨