Simple Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe – Ready in 10 Minutes

This cucumber tomato salad recipe is a refreshing, fuss-free dish that works for almost any occasion. If you’re looking for a simple cucumber tomato salad that doesn’t require fancy ingredients or long prep time, this one is perfect. It’s fresh, light, and comes together in just 10 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy days when you still want something wholesome on your plate.

What makes this a cucumber tomato salad best is its versatility. You can enjoy it as a quick vegetable salad for lunch, or serve it as a side dish salad with your favorite meals. I often pair this fresh vegetable salad with vegetable fried rice when I want something cooling and refreshing to complement the flavors.

This recipe also works beautifully as a healthy cucumber tomato salad, especially if you prefer lighter meals without heavy dressings. Since it’s a no lettuce salad, it stays crisp and juicy instead of wilting quickly. It’s especially popular as a summer salad recipe, thanks to its cooling ingredients and bright flavors. Whether you need a quick side for dinner or a light, refreshing option during warmer months, this cucumber tomato salad recipe fits effortlessly into your routine.

Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe

• This is a simple cucumber tomato salad made with everyday ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
• It’s an easy cucumber tomato salad recipe that comes together in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy weekdays.
• This recipe works well as a quick vegetable salad when you need something fresh without turning on the stove.
• It’s a healthy cucumber tomato salad with no heavy dressings, making it light yet satisfying.
• Since it’s a no lettuce salad, it stays crisp and fresh instead of wilting quickly.
• This salad doubles as a refreshing side dish salad that pairs well with rice, soups, and grilled vegetables.
• It’s an ideal summer salad recipe, thanks to its cooling cucumbers and juicy tomatoes.
• You can easily customize this fresh vegetable salad with herbs, spices, or a splash of lemon to match your taste.

Recipe Details

Prep Time	Cook Time	Total Time	Servings
10 minutes	0 minutes	10 minutes	2-3

What Ingredients Do You Need for Cucumber Tomato Salad?

This cucumber tomato salad recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients that come together to create a light and refreshing dish. Using good-quality produce is the key to making this fresh vegetable salad taste its best.

• Cucumbers – Crisp, fresh cucumbers form the base of this salad. I always use fresh, firm cucumbers for the best crunch. English or regular cucumbers both work well in this cucumber tomato salad.
• Tomatoes – Ripe, juicy tomatoes add natural sweetness and balance the crispness of the cucumbers. I recommend using cherry or regular tomatoes for this recipe. Whether you use cherry tomatoes or regular ones, their freshness makes a big difference in how flavorful this easy cucumber tomato salad turns out.
• Red Onion – Thinly sliced red onion adds a mild sharpness that enhances the flavor without overpowering the salad.
• Fresh Lemon Juice or Vinegar – A splash of acidity brightens everything up. This adds brightness and helps bring all the flavors together in this easy cucumber tomato salad. My favorite item to add to salad recipes.
• Olive Oil – A small amount of olive oil adds richness and smooths out the acidity of the dressing.
• Salt – Salt helps draw out moisture and enhances the natural flavors of the vegetables.
• Black Pepper – Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle kick and finishes the salad nicely.
• Fresh Herbs (Optional) – Herbs like parsley or cilantro add freshness and make this healthy cucumber tomato salad even more flavorful.

How To Make Cucumber Tomato Salad Step by Step?

Making this cucumber tomato salad recipe always feels like a small, calming moment in the kitchen. I usually start by washing the vegetables well and letting them air-dry for a minute. Fresh ingredients really make this simple cucumber tomato salad shine. Here is the step-by-step guide to my cucumber salad recipe.

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing the cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons and cut the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Keeping the pieces similar in size helps the salad feel balanced and easy to eat.

Step 2: Add the Onion

Thinly slice the red onion and add it to the bowl with the cucumbers and tomatoes. This adds a gentle sharpness that blends beautifully with the fresh vegetables without overpowering the salad.

Step 3: Season Lightly

Sprinkle a small pinch of salt over the vegetables and let them sit for about a minute. This simple step helps draw out natural juices and enhances the flavor of this simple cucumber tomato salad.

Step 4: Add the Dressing

Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables, followed by the lemon juice or vinegar. These two ingredients bring everything together and give this easy cucumber tomato salad its fresh, bright taste.

Step 5: Toss Gently

Using a spoon or clean hands, gently toss the salad until the vegetables are lightly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to overmix so the tomatoes stay intact.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Finish with freshly ground black pepper and chopped herbs if using. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve this healthy cucumber tomato salad immediately while it’s crisp and refreshing.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	90 kcal	5%
Total Fat	6 g	8%
Saturated Fat	0.8 g	4%
Cholesterol	0 mg	0%
Sodium	220 mg	10%
Total Carbohydrates	7 g	3%
Dietary Fiber	2 g	8%
Sugars	4 g	—
Protein	1 g	2%
Vitamin A	700 IU	14%
Vitamin C	18 mg	30%
Calcium	30 mg	3%
Iron	0.5 mg	3%

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet.

What Is the Best Dressing for Cucumber Tomato Salad?

If you want to take this simple cucumber tomato salad to the next level, there are a few easy tricks that make a big difference. Start by letting the cucumbers and tomatoes sit with a pinch of salt for a few minutes. It draws out their natural juices and intensifies the flavor. Adding a splash of fresh lemon juice or a mild vinegar brightens the salad instantly, while a drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds richness without weighing it down.

Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill can transform this easy cucumber tomato salad into a fragrant, vibrant dish, and a light sprinkle of black pepper gives just the right kick. For an extra touch, try adding finely chopped garlic or a few toasted seeds for texture. These small adjustments make this healthy cucumber tomato salad taste far beyond its simple ingredients and turn it into a refreshing summer salad recipe or a standout quick vegetable salad that everyone will love.

Can You Make Cucumber Tomato Salad Ahead of Time?

One of the great things about this Best cucumber tomato salad is that you can prepare it ahead of time, but a little care goes a long way. I usually slice the cucumbers and tomatoes and store them separately in airtight containers if I’m prepping in advance, then mix everything just before serving. This keeps the vegetables crisp and prevents the salad from becoming watery.

The dressing, especially if it includes lemon juice or vinegar, can be made ahead and stored in the fridge as well. When I’m short on time, I like to toss everything together 10-15 minutes before serving. It gives the flavors a chance to meld without losing that fresh crunch that makes this easy cucumber tomato salad so enjoyable.

How to Store Cucumber Tomato Salad Without It Getting Watery?

Storing cucumber tomato salad properly is key if you want to keep it fresh and crisp. The biggest culprit for a watery salad is the natural moisture in the cucumbers and tomatoes. To prevent this, start by slicing the cucumbers and sprinkling a pinch of salt over them, then let them sit in a colander for 10-15 minutes so excess water drains away.

Pat them dry with a paper towel before mixing with the other ingredients. If you’re making the salad ahead, it’s best to store the dressing separately in a small container and toss it with the vegetables just before serving. Use an airtight container for the salad itself and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. This simple method ensures your healthy cucumber tomato salad stays crisp, flavorful, and perfect as a quick vegetable salad or refreshing summer salad recipe without turning soggy.

What to Serve With Cucumber Tomato Salad?

This easy cucumber tomato salad is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a wide range of meals. For a comforting, flavorful plate, I often serve it alongside garlic rice . It also adds a fresh, crisp contrast to hearty dishes like beef stir fry with broccoli and bell peppers or Jamaican curry chicken. If you’re in the mood for something savory and bite-sized, pair it with garlic butter chicken bites for a delightful combination.

This salad also complements cold or creamy dishes like yellow potato Peruvian salad, or it can be served alongside grilled favorites such as carne asada. For lighter sides or snacks, it’s perfect with air fryer zucchini fries, and for a fun, casual meal, try it as a filling in turkey sloppy joe. No matter what you serve it with, this cucumber tomato salad works as a refreshing side dish salad or a vibrant summer salad recipe, bringing color, crunch, and a healthy boost to your meal while naturally linking your other recipes.

Variations Of Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe

This simple cucumber tomato salad is wonderfully versatile. For a no lettuce salad twist, try adding bell peppers or radishes for extra crunch. You can make it a fresh vegetable salad with avocado or cucumber ribbons for a modern touch, or turn it into a summer salad recipe by adding feta cheese and olives for a Mediterranean vibe. These small variations let you enjoy the same easy cucumber tomato salad in exciting new ways while keeping it crisp and flavorful.

Is Cucumber Tomato Salad Healthy?

This healthy cucumber tomato salad is as good for your body as it is for your taste buds. Made with fresh cucumbers and juicy tomatoes, it’s low in calories but high in fiber and water content, which helps support digestion and satiety. The olive oil provides heart-healthy fats, which research shows can promote cardiovascular wellness. You can check the Health Benefits of the cucumber.

Adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro increases antioxidants and micronutrients, enhancing the overall nutritional value. Since it’s a no-lettuce salad, it stays crisp and refreshing, perfect for a summer salad recipe or anytime you want a light, wholesome addition to your meal. Eating this salad regularly can help you enjoy more vegetables in your diet without complicated preparation, making healthy eating effortless and enjoyable.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Cucumber Tomato Salad

• Slicing vegetables too early – Cutting cucumbers and tomatoes too far in advance can make the salad watery. Slice them just before serving or let the cucumbers drain first.
• Using overripe or wilted produce – Fresh, firm cucumbers and ripe tomatoes are key for crispness and flavor. Avoid soft or old vegetables.
• Over-seasoning – Too much salt or heavy dressing can overpower the natural freshness of the salad. Keep it light and balanced.
• Adding dressing too early – Tossing the salad with dressing too soon can cause it to become soggy. For best results, mix the dressing just before serving.
• Skipping the resting step for cucumbers – A quick salt-and-rest step helps draw out excess moisture and enhances the flavor. Don’t skip this simple trick.
• Ignoring flavor balance – Failing to adjust acidity, herbs, or seasoning can leave the salad tasting flat. Taste and tweak before serving.

Final Thoughts on My Easy Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe

This easy cucumber tomato salad is a fresh, crisp, and versatile dish that’s perfect as a side dish salad or a light summer salad recipe. With just a few simple ingredients, it comes together in minutes while packing flavor, crunch, and nutrition. Whether you’re serving it alongside rice, grilled meats, or your favorite comfort foods, it always adds a refreshing touch to any meal.

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to explore our other salad recipes, which make perfect companions to your meals. Try them out and bring more color, flavor, and healthy variety to your table. Don’t forget to share with your loved ones.

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