This cucumber tomato salad is one of those fresh, no fuss sides we love to make as a team when the weather warms up. Juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and a bright vinegar dressing come together in minutes, which for us is exactly what real food for real life is all about.
This cucumber tomato salad combines juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and crunchy onion, all dressed in a tangy vinegar based dressing. Fresh, flavorful, and ready in just 10 minutes, it is perfect as a side dish for any meal or a refreshing light lunch. A little time in the fridge lets the flavors meld, making this cucumber tomato salad even better.
What makes this cucumber tomato salad so good is the tangy dressing. A simple vinegar dressing brightens the juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and onion as they chill.
Watch the Recipe Video
Watch how this cucumber, onion, and tomato salad comes together, step by step.
Why You Will Love This Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad
- Fresh and crisp. Juicy tomatoes and crunchy cucumbers in every bite.
- Tangy and bright. A simple vinegar dressing ties it together.
- Quick to make. Ready in just 10 minutes.
- Make ahead friendly. This cucumber tomato salad melds beautifully as it chills.
- Versatile. A perfect side for almost any meal.
What Makes This Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad So Good
Crisp cucumbers are refreshing and hydrating, bringing a cool, crunchy bite that balances the juicy tomatoes.
Juicy tomatoes and onion add flavor. Ripe tomatoes bring sweetness, while thinly sliced onion adds a zesty bite.
A tangy vinegar dressing brings it together. A simple mix of vinegar, oil, and a touch of sugar enhances all the fresh ingredients.
Juicy tomatoes are the other star here, adding sweetness, color, and a good dose of vitamin C to the salad.
Optional Pro Tip: The Best Flavor
Let it chill before serving. Even 15 to 20 minutes lets the dressing soak in and the flavors meld.
Use ripe tomatoes. The juiciest tomatoes make the best cucumber tomato salad.
Tips for the Best Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad
- Use ripe tomatoes. The juiciest tomatoes give the best flavor.
- Slice evenly. Uniform pieces make for nicer bites.
- Dissolve the sugar and salt. Whisk the dressing until they dissolve.
- Slice the onion thinly. This spreads the flavor without overpowering.
- Let it marinate. Chilling lets this cucumber tomato salad meld.
- Adjust the tang. Add more vinegar or sugar to taste.
- Drain before serving. Lift the veggies out if you prefer less dressing.
- Serve chilled. It is most refreshing cold.
Variations and Add Ins
This cucumber tomato salad is easy to customize.
- Add herbs. Fresh dill, parsley, or basil brighten it.
- Add cheese. Crumbled feta makes it Mediterranean style.
- Add avocado. Diced avocado adds creaminess.
- Use cherry tomatoes. Halved cherry tomatoes work beautifully.
- Add cucumbers unpeeled. Leave the skin on for extra crunch.
- Make it creamy. Add a spoonful of sour cream or yogurt.
- Add a kick. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds heat.
- Use red onion. For a milder, sweeter bite.
How to Store and Serve Later
Store the cucumber tomato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. It is best fresh, as the cucumbers soften over time.
Give it a stir before serving. If you are making it well ahead, you can keep the dressing separate and toss it together just before serving for the crispest texture.
Serving Suggestions for Cucumber Tomato Salad
This cucumber tomato salad is a refreshing side for almost any meal, pairing beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or a hearty main. It adds a cool, crisp contrast to richer dishes.
It is right at home at a cookout or potluck, alongside burgers, kebabs, or other summer salads. It also makes a light, refreshing lunch all on its own.
For a fresh finish, scatter chopped herbs over the top, or add crumbled feta and a final drizzle of olive oil. Serve it chilled for the best flavor.
- With grilled chicken. A cool, crisp side.
- At a cookout. Great with burgers or kebabs.
- As a light lunch. Refreshing on its own.
- With feta and herbs. For a Mediterranean touch.
For a hearty main to serve alongside, our high protein creamy beef pasta is a great one to try.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should it marinate?
Even 15 to 20 minutes in the fridge lets the flavors meld and the dressing soak in. You can chill it longer for an even tangier salad.
Should I peel the cucumbers?
It is up to you. Peeling gives a softer texture, while leaving the skin on adds extra crunch and color.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, though it is best within a day or two. For the crispest texture, keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving.
What vinegar works best?
White vinegar or apple cider vinegar both work beautifully. Use whichever you have on hand for a bright, tangy dressing.
What tomatoes are best?
The ripest, juiciest tomatoes you can find. Cherry or grape tomatoes also work well, simply halved.
Can I add cheese?
Absolutely. Crumbled feta is a delicious addition that gives the salad a Mediterranean flavor.
How do I make it less tangy?
Add a little more sugar or oil to the dressing, or use a bit less vinegar to soften the tang.
Why does it get watery?
The salt and vegetables release water as they sit, which is normal. Drain off excess liquid or lift out the veggies before serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days, knowing the cucumbers will soften over time.
What should I serve it with?
It pairs with grilled chicken, fish, burgers, or kebabs, and also makes a light, refreshing lunch on its own.
A Fresh, Tangy Side
This cucumber tomato salad brings together juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and crunchy onion in a simple, tangy vinegar dressing. Fresh, crisp, and refreshing, it is ready in just 10 minutes.
Make ahead friendly and endlessly customizable, it is a wonderful side for cookouts, weeknight dinners, and light lunches. Once you try it, this cucumber tomato salad is sure to become a warm weather favorite.
Craving more easy, satisfying favorites? Our creamy Cajun chicken pasta is another crowd pleaser to try next.
Results vary by ingredients, equipment, and cooking conditions. Always taste and adjust seasoning as you go.
Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, and thinly sliced onion.
- In a separate bowl or jar, whisk together the vinegar, cracked pepper, sugar, salt, water, and olive oil until the sugar and salt are dissolved.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to combine.
- Let the salad sit for at least 15 to 20 minutes in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Nutrition
Notes
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