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Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe in a large glass bowl with black pepper.
SavorAndSpice

Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe (No Lettuce made in 10 Minutes)

This easy cucumber tomato salad is a fresh, crisp, and healthy side dish that comes together in just 10 minutes. Perfect as a quick vegetable salad, a side dish salad, or a refreshing summer salad recipe, it pairs wonderfully with rice, grilled meats, and other meals.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: international, Mediterranean
Calories: 88

Ingredients
  

  • Cucumbers - 1 cup sliced
  • Tomatoes - 1 cup diced
  • Red Onion - 2 tbsp thinly sliced
  • Olive Oil - 2 tbsp
  • Fresh Lemon Juice or Vinegar - 1 tbsp
  • Salt - ¼ tsp adjust to taste
  • Black Pepper - ¼ tsp
  • Fresh Herbs Optional - 1 tbsp, chopped parsley or cilantro

Equipment

  • 1 Cutting board & knife
  • 2 mixing bowls
  • 1 spatula

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
  1. Wash cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly. Slice cucumbers into rounds or half-moons, and dice the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Add the Onion
  1. Thinly slice red onion and add it to the cucumbers and tomatoes.
Step 3: Season Lightly
  1. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and let the vegetables rest for 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
Step 4: Add the Dressing
  1. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice (or vinegar) over the vegetables.
Step 5: Toss Gently
  1. Toss everything lightly to coat the vegetables without crushing the tomatoes.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
  1. Add black pepper and fresh herbs if desired. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately or store dressing separately if preparing ahead.

Notes

  • For a crispier salad, salt the cucumbers and drain excess water before tossing.
  • Store dressing separately if making ahead to prevent sogginess.
  • Add variations like bell peppers, radishes, avocado, or feta for extra flavor.