If you’re searching for a vibrant, refreshing dish that effortlessly celebrates the best of garden-fresh produce, this Cucumber and Tomato Salad Recipe is an absolute must-try. Bursting with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a zingy dressing that ties it all together, this salad is quick to make yet incredibly satisfying. Whether it’s a perfect side for summer barbecues or a light, healthy lunch, this dish delivers bright flavors and that delightful crunch you’ll want to revisit again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this salad is incredibly simple, but together, they create a harmony of fresh taste, texture, and color that makes every bite unforgettable. These pantry staples and fresh garden picks bring essential balance to the dish.
- 1 large cucumber: Thinly sliced for crispness and a cooling effect that’s key to the salad’s refreshing nature.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes: Halved to add sweetness, juiciness, and a pop of vibrant red color.
- 1/2 red onion: Thinly sliced for a sharp, slightly sweet bite that contrasts perfectly with the other veggies.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley: Chopped finely to lend a fresh herbal note and gorgeous green flecks throughout.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: A smooth, fruity base for the dressing, bringing a silky texture to the salad.
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar: Adds a bright acidity to balance the sweetness of tomatoes and mellow cucumber.
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (black and white): Provides a subtle nutty crunch and an appealing contrast against the salad’s colors.
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): A gentle kick of heat that wakes up your taste buds without overpowering the freshness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning that enhances all the natural flavors.
How to Make Cucumber and Tomato Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by combining the thinly sliced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion in a large bowl. This trio forms the heart of your Cucumber and Tomato Salad Recipe, bringing a balance of crunchy and juicy textures that are key to the salad’s charm.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper until everything comes together in a smooth, tangy blend. This dressing is incredibly simple but essential — it coats the vegetables lightly, allowing their natural freshness to shine while adding a subtle zing.
Step 3: Toss the Salad
Pour the dressing over your prepared vegetables and toss gently to ensure every slice of cucumber and tomato is kissed by the flavorful vinaigrette. This gentle tossing helps maintain the crispness while blending all those delightful textures.
Step 4: Garnish
Sprinkle the salad with fresh parsley, sesame seeds, and the optional red pepper flakes for a beautiful finish. These garnishes introduce pops of color, a hint of nuttiness, and just enough heat to make each bite more exciting.
Step 5: Serve or Chill
When you serve your Cucumber and Tomato Salad Recipe immediately, you’ll enjoy peak freshness and crunch. Alternatively, refrigerate it for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully, creating an even richer taste experience.
How to Serve Cucumber and Tomato Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few extra garnishes can elevate this simple salad to a showstopper at your table. Consider fresh basil leaves or crumbled feta cheese for an extra layer of creaminess and herbaceous aroma. A drizzle of good-quality balsamic glaze can also add a subtle sweetness and shine.
Side Dishes
This Cucumber and Tomato Salad Recipe pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken or fish, as well as vegetarian dishes such as stuffed peppers or grain bowls. Its crisp texture and bright flavors complement richer sides beautifully, offering a refreshing balance that lifts the whole meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing presentation, serve this salad in a large, wide-rimmed bowl or even individual glass jars for picnic-style charm. Layering the salad with whole cherry tomatoes and curled cucumber ribbons on top adds a touch of elegance and makes the colors pop.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers from your Cucumber and Tomato Salad Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within one to two days for maximum freshness and crunch, as the cucumbers can release moisture over time.
Freezing
Freezing this salad is not recommended because cucumbers and fresh tomatoes have high water content and will become mushy upon thawing, losing that crisp texture that’s so delightful in this recipe.
Reheating
Since this is a fresh salad best served cold or at room temperature, reheating is not necessary and can alter the texture negatively. Instead, give any refrigerated salad a gentle toss before serving again, allowing it to regain some of its vibrancy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of vinegar instead of red wine vinegar?
Absolutely! While red wine vinegar offers a balanced acidity, you can substitute with white wine vinegar or even apple cider vinegar for a slightly different but still delicious flavor profile.
Is this Cucumber and Tomato Salad Recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance and keep it chilled. However, for best texture, add the dressing and garnishes just before serving to avoid soggy veggies.
Can I add cheese to this salad?
Crumbling some feta or adding small mozzarella balls gives a creamy contrast to the fresh vegetables and complements the tangy dressing beautifully.
What if I don’t have sesame seeds? Is there a substitute?
If you don’t have sesame seeds, you can omit them or try toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunchy addition with a nutty flavor.
How spicy does the red pepper flakes make the salad?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle heat that enhances the salad’s flavor without overwhelming it. You can adjust the amount according to your preference or leave them out entirely if you prefer no spice.
Final Thoughts
This Cucumber and Tomato Salad Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a bright summer hug in every bite—simple, fresh, and bursting with flavor. It’s perfect any time you want something light yet satisfying, and I truly encourage you to make it your own with little tweaks and additions. Get those crisp cucumbers and sweet tomatoes ready, and enjoy the ease and joy of this beautiful salad!
Print
Cucumber and Tomato Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and vibrant cucumber and tomato salad featuring thinly sliced cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and red onions, tossed in a light olive oil and red wine vinegar dressing. Garnished with fresh parsley, sesame seeds, and optional red pepper flakes, this salad is perfect as a crisp side dish or a healthy snack.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (black and white)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the cucumber, tomato, and onion mixture. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Garnish: Sprinkle the salad with chopped parsley, sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes if using, to add texture and a slight kick.
- Serve: Serve immediately for a fresh and crisp salad, or refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Enjoy your crisp and nutritious salad!
Notes
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours.
- For a nuttier flavor, try toasting the sesame seeds lightly before adding.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your spice preference or omit for a milder taste.
- Add fresh herbs like dill or mint for a different flavor profile.
- Use a mandoline slicer for uniformly thin cucumber and onion slices.
