When the weather gets warm and you're craving something fresh, light, and full of flavor, this cucumber tomato salad is always a wonderful choice. It's one of those simple recipes that proves you don't need a long list of ingredients or hours in the kitchen to make something delicious.
Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and a simple homemade dressing come together to create a refreshing salad that tastes like summer in every bite. A little olive oil, vinegar, fresh herbs, salt, and black pepper bring everything together without overpowering the natural flavors of the vegetables.
I especially love making this salad when tomatoes and cucumbers are fresh and plentiful. It takes only a few minutes to prepare, requires no cooking, and pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, burgers, fish, sandwiches, or almost any family dinner.
Whether you're planning a backyard barbecue, preparing a quick lunch, or looking for an easy side dish to serve during the week, this cucumber tomato salad deserves a place at your table.
Why You'll Love This Cucumber Tomato Salad
There are plenty of reasons to keep this recipe in your regular meal rotation.
Quick and easy: You can prepare everything in about 15 minutes without turning on the stove.
Fresh ingredients: Cucumbers and tomatoes provide a crisp, juicy combination that tastes naturally refreshing.
Simple homemade dressing: Olive oil and vinegar add just enough tanginess to complement the vegetables.
Perfect for warm weather: It's a cool and refreshing side dish for summer meals and outdoor gatherings.
Easy to customize: Add feta cheese, avocado, olives, or fresh herbs to create your own version.
Naturally vegetarian: The basic recipe is made with simple plant-based ingredients.
Great for sharing: It makes an easy addition to potlucks, picnics, barbecues, and family dinners.
Ingredients You'll Need
You only need a few everyday ingredients to make this colorful salad.
2 large cucumbers: English cucumbers or regular garden cucumbers both work well. Choose firm cucumbers with smooth skin.
3 medium ripe tomatoes: Roma tomatoes, vine-ripened tomatoes, or cherry tomatoes are all excellent choices.
½ small red onion: Thinly sliced for a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a little crunch.
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: Gives the dressing a smooth texture and rich flavor.
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar: Adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Brings a fresh citrus flavor to the dressing.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Adds color and a light herbal taste.
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill: Optional, but particularly delicious with cucumber.
½ teaspoon salt, or to taste: Helps bring out the natural flavors of the vegetables.
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a gentle touch of seasoning.
Optional additions:
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
¼ cup sliced black or Kalamata olives
1 ripe avocado, diced
A pinch of dried oregano
A little minced garlic
How to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad
