If you’ve ever sliced into a garden-fresh cucumber and inhaled that clean, cool scent, you already know half the appeal of this classic salad. Add juicy tomatoes, a zingy dressing, and you’ve got summer in a bowl. But there’s so much more to cucumber tomato salad than just throwing some veggies together!

Today I’m sharing everything I’ve learned about making the perfect cucumber salad with tomatoes – from selecting the best ingredients to creative variations that’ll have your family begging for seconds. Ready to up your salad game?

What is Cucumber Salad with Tomatoes?

At its core, cucumber tomato salad is exactly what it sounds like – a simple salad featuring fresh cucumbers and tomatoes as the star ingredients. But don’t let the simplicity fool you! This classic combination is beloved worldwide, appearing in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, European, and American cuisines with countless regional spins.

The beauty of cucumber salad with tomatoes lies in its versatility and simplicity. Most versions feature crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes tossed with some form of acid (vinegar or lemon juice), oil, and herbs. Some variations add onions, cheese, or additional vegetables, but the cucumber-tomato pairing remains the foundation.

What makes this salad so universally appealing is the perfect contrast between the cool, mild crunch of cucumber and the sweet, juicy acidity of tomatoes. Together, they create a refreshing dish that complements almost any meal while standing perfectly fine on its own.

Why You’ll Love This Salad

Ever wondered why cucumber tomato salad remains a staple in so many households? Here’s why I can’t get enough of it:

Quick and Easy: Whips up in 10-15 minutes with minimal effort
No Cooking Required: Perfect for hot summer days when you can’t bear to turn on the stove
Incredibly Versatile: Works as a side dish, light lunch, or healthy snack
Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable, accessible ingredients
Healthy and Nutritious: Low-calorie, hydrating, and packed with vitamins
Customizable: Easily adaptable to dietary preferences and what’s in your fridge
Crowd-Pleaser: Appeals to picky eaters and foodies alike
Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared in advance (with a few tricks I’ll share later)

When I’m scrambling for a last-minute side dish or need something fresh to balance a heavier meal, cucumber tomato salad never lets me down. It’s my culinary equivalent of that reliable friend who always shows up when you need them. 🙂

Ingredients: Choosing the Best

The secret to an amazing cucumber tomato salad? Starting with exceptional ingredients. Here’s my guide to selecting and preparing the core components:

Cucumbers

Not all cucumbers are created equal! Here are your best options:

English/Hothouse Cucumbers: My personal favorite for salads. They have thinner skin, fewer seeds, and don’t need peeling. Plus, they’re not waxed like regular cucumbers.
Persian Cucumbers: Small, crisp, and sweet with minimal seeds. Perfect bite-sized option!
Garden Cucumbers: The standard grocery store variety. They have thicker skin and more seeds, so you might want to peel and seed them.
Kirby Cucumbers: Often used for pickles but equally delicious in salads. They’re crisp with thin skin.

Pro Tip: For extra-crisp cucumbers, slice them, sprinkle with a bit of salt, and let them drain in a colander for 15-30 minutes. Rinse and pat dry before adding to your salad. This draws out excess water and concentrates the flavor!

Tomatoes

The tomato world is vast! Here are excellent options for your salad:

Cherry or Grape Tomatoes: Sweet, juicy, and hold their shape well. My go-to for cucumber salads.
Roma/Plum Tomatoes: Less watery than other varieties, with a firm texture and sweet flavor.
Heirloom Tomatoes: Stunning colors and complex flavors, especially in summer. Worth the splurge!
Beefsteak Tomatoes: Juicy and large, best used when perfectly ripe.
Campari Tomatoes: Between cherry and regular tomatoes in size, with excellent flavor year-round.

Pro Tip: For the best flavor, store tomatoes at room temperature, never in the refrigerator! Only slice them just before assembling your salad.

Onions

Onions add a necessary bite that balances the mild cucumber and sweet tomatoes:

Red Onions: My preferred choice for their color and milder flavor.
Sweet Onions: Vidalia or Walla Walla varieties add sweetness without as much bite.
Green Onions/Scallions: For a milder, fresher onion flavor.
Shallots: More delicate than regular onions with a hint of garlic flavor.

Pro Tip: To tame the bite of raw onions, soak sliced onions in ice water for 10 minutes, then drain and pat dry before adding to the salad.

Herbs

Fresh herbs elevate a simple cucumber tomato salad to something special:

Dill: Classic pairing with cucumbers, adds a fresh, slightly tangy note.
Basil: Perfect complement to tomatoes with its sweet, aromatic flavor.
Mint: Adds bright, cooling notes – especially good in Mediterranean versions.
Parsley: Fresh, clean flavor that pairs well with everything.
Oregano: Distinctive flavor perfect for Greek-style salads.
Chives: Mild onion flavor and beautiful purple blossoms when in season.

Pro Tip: Add delicate herbs like basil and mint just before serving to prevent browning.

Additional Add-ins

These optional ingredients can transform your basic salad:

Cheese: Feta, goat cheese, fresh mozzarella, or cotija cheese
Olives: Kalamata, green, or black olives for briny richness
Avocado: For creamy texture and healthy fats
Bell Peppers: For color and crunch
Chickpeas or White Beans: To make the salad more substantial
Grains: Cooked quinoa, farro, or bulgur to create a hearty main dish

Step-by-Step Instructions : Cucumber Salad with Tomatoes

Let’s walk through creating the perfect classic cucumber tomato salad:

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

Wash the cucumbers thoroughly.
Decide whether to peel them (I usually leave English cucumber skin on, but peel garden cucumbers).
Slice thinly (about ⅛ inch) using a sharp knife or mandoline for consistent thickness.
Optional: For less watery salad, place cucumber slices in a colander, sprinkle with ½ teaspoon salt, and let sit for 30 minutes. Rinse and pat dry.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomatoes

Wash tomatoes and pat dry.
For cherry tomatoes: Slice in half or quarter if large.
For larger tomatoes: Remove core and cut into bite-sized pieces.
If tomatoes are very juicy, you can drain excess liquid in a colander to prevent a watery salad.

Step 3: Prepare the Onions

Peel and slice the onion thinly (I prefer half-moons).
To reduce sharpness, soak sliced onions in ice water for 10 minutes, then drain and pat dry.

Step 4: Chop the Herbs

Rinse herbs and pat dry.
Remove tough stems if necessary.
Roughly chop or tear larger herbs like basil.
Set aside until final assembly.

Step 5: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (or white vinegar, lemon juice)
- 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 6: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cucumber slices, tomatoes, and onions.
Pour the dressing over the vegetables.
Add fresh herbs.
Toss gently to combine all ingredients without breaking down the vegetables.
Let sit for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Pro Tip: Reserve a few herbs to sprinkle on top just before serving for a fresh, attractive presentation.

Delicious Variations

Once you’ve mastered the basic cucumber tomato salad, it’s time to explore these mouthwatering variations! Each one transforms the classic into something new while maintaining its refreshing essence.

Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad

This version channels sunny Mediterranean flavors:

Add: Kalamata olives, feta cheese, bell peppers
Herbs: Fresh oregano, basil
Dressing: Olive oil, lemon juice, pinch of dried oregano
Finish with: Sprinkle of sumac for tangy flavor

I love making this version for potlucks – the bold flavors stand up well to other dishes, and it always disappears quickly!

Greek Cucumber Tomato Salad (Horiatiki)

The famous Greek salad is essentially a cucumber tomato salad with distinctive additions:

Add: Chunk-cut feta (not crumbled), green bell peppers, red onions, whole Kalamata olives
Herbs: Dried oregano (authentic Greek style uses less fresh herbs)
Dressing: High-quality Greek olive oil and a splash of red wine vinegar
Serving style: Traditionally served with minimal tossing, more like arranged ingredients

When I visited Greece, I was surprised to learn authentic Greek salad never contains lettuce! This chunky, rustic salad is meant to showcase the incredible quality of fresh produce.

Asian-Inspired Cucumber Tomato Salad

This east-meets-west fusion adds exciting new dimensions:

Add: Thinly sliced radishes, chopped peanuts for crunch
Herbs: Fresh cilantro, mint
Dressing: Rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, minced ginger, touch of honey
Finish with: Sesame seeds, sliced green onions

I created this version during a summer cooking rut when I wanted something different. The sesame-ginger flavors transform the familiar ingredients completely!

Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad

For a richer, more indulgent version:

Add: Thinly sliced radishes for extra crunch
Herbs: Fresh dill, chives
Dressing: ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon vinegar, 1 teaspoon sugar, salt and pepper
Pro tip: This version is best made at least 30 minutes ahead, but add tomatoes just before serving

This creamy variation reminds me of my grandmother’s cucumber salad, but with the welcome addition of juicy tomatoes to balance the richness.

Spicy Cucumber Tomato Salad

For heat lovers, this version packs a punch:

Add: Thinly sliced jalapeños or serrano peppers, corn kernels
Herbs: Cilantro, green onions
Dressing: Lime juice, olive oil, honey, minced garlic
Spice options: Red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or finely diced hot peppers
Finish with: Tajin seasoning or chili powder

Ever since visiting Mexico, I’ve been obsessed with adding heat to fresh, crisp salads. The contrast between cool cucumbers and spicy peppers is absolutely addictive!

Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad

Perfect for make-ahead situations:

Prepare: Slice vegetables slightly thicker than usual
Herbs: Dill, parsley (hardier herbs that stand up to marinating)
Marinade: Equal parts vinegar and water, salt, pepper, and a touch of sugar
Process: Combine all ingredients and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight
Finish with: Drain excess liquid before serving; add fresh herbs

I make this version when I know I’ll have a busy day but want a ready-to-go side dish. The marinating process actually improves the flavor!

Dressing Guide: Beyond Basic Vinaigrette

The dressing can make or break your cucumber tomato salad. Here are my favorite options to complement those fresh veggies:

Classic Vinaigrette Recipe

This timeless dressing lets the vegetables shine:

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon honey (optional)
1 small garlic clove, minced or grated
¼ teaspoon salt
Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Whisk all ingredients together until emulsified, or shake in a jar with a tight-fitting lid.

Creamy Dressing Recipe

For a richer alternative:

½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon honey or sugar
1 small garlic clove, minced
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Whisk all ingredients until smooth. This dressing thickens in the refrigerator, so you may need to thin it with a splash of water before using.

Herb-Infused Dressing Ideas

Take your dressing to the next level with these herb-forward options:

Basil Vinaigrette: Blend ¼ cup fresh basil leaves with classic vinaigrette ingredients
Dill Lemon Dressing: Add 2 tablespoons fresh dill and use lemon juice instead of vinegar
Mint Lime Dressing: Substitute lime juice for vinegar and add 1 tablespoon finely chopped mint
Herb Garden Blend: Combine equal parts parsley, dill, and chives with vinaigrette base

I discovered the power of blended herb dressings last summer and haven’t looked back. They add incredible flavor and a beautiful color to your salad!

Tips for Adjusting Dressing to Your Taste

Creating the perfect dressing is all about balance:

Too acidic? Add a pinch more salt or a drizzle of honey
Too bland? Add more acid (vinegar or citrus) or a bit more salt
Too oily? Increase acid component or add a splash of water
Want more flavor? Add minced shallot, extra herbs, or a pinch of red pepper flakes
Need creaminess without dairy? Use avocado or a splash of tahini

Remember: always start with less dressing than you think you need. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away once it’s mixed in!

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Cucumber Tomato Salad

After years of making cucumber tomato salads, I’ve collected these game-changing tricks:

How to Prevent Watery Salad

Nobody likes a pool of liquid at the bottom of their salad bowl! Try these techniques:

Salt and drain cucumbers: Place sliced cucumbers in a colander, sprinkle with ½ teaspoon salt, and let sit for 30 minutes. Rinse and pat dry before assembling.
Remove tomato seeds: For larger tomatoes, cut in half and gently squeeze out seeds and excess juice.
Serve with a slotted spoon: Keep a slotted serving spoon with the salad to leave excess liquid behind.
Use English or Persian cucumbers: They naturally contain less water than garden varieties.
Dress just before serving: Add dressing right before you plan to eat.

Best Ways to Chop Cucumbers and Tomatoes

How you cut your vegetables affects both presentation and eating experience:

Cucumber Cutting Options:

Thin rounds: Classic presentation, best for creamy dressings
Half-moons: Cut cucumber in half lengthwise, then slice for more manageable bites
Quarters: Cut cucumber into spears, then slice for chunky texture
Diced: Small cubes for more uniform bites with tomatoes

Tomato Cutting Options:

Cherry tomatoes: Halved or quartered depending on size
Regular tomatoes: Medium dice or wedges
Mixed cuts: Different shapes add visual interest

Pro Tip: For a restaurant-worthy presentation, try cutting cucumbers with a crinkle cutter to create ridged slices that hold more dressing!

Making It Ahead of Time (Storage Tips)

Yes, you can prep ahead without ending up with a soggy mess:

Component prep: Slice cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions separately and store in individual containers.
Partial assembly: Mix cucumbers and onions with dressing up to 4 hours ahead, add tomatoes just before serving.
Drain before finishing: If prepping a full day ahead, drain any accumulated liquid before final assembly.
Store properly: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Refresh before serving: Add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice and a drizzle of olive oil to revive flavors.

My go-to method when hosting: I prep all components in the morning, store separately, then quickly assemble right before guests arrive.

Serving Suggestions

Wondering what pairs perfectly with cucumber tomato salad? Here are my favorite combinations:

Main Dish Pairings:

Grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp
Mediterranean-style lamb
Burgers or grilled sandwiches
Quiche or frittata
Falafel or other bean patties
Pizza (especially with rich toppings)

Complete Menu Ideas:

Greek feast: Cucumber tomato salad + souvlaki + rice pilaf + pita bread
Summer BBQ: Cucumber tomato salad + grilled burgers + corn on the cob
Light lunch: Cucumber tomato salad + crusty bread + hummus + olives
Vegetarian dinner: Cucumber tomato salad + stuffed bell peppers + quinoa

Presentation Tips:

Serve in a shallow bowl to showcase the colors
Garnish with extra fresh herbs and a drizzle of good olive oil
For entertaining, serve in individual portions on lettuce cups

Nutritional Information

One of the many reasons to love cucumber tomato salad is its impressive nutritional profile! Here’s what you’re getting in a typical 1-cup serving of basic cucumber tomato salad with vinaigrette:

Calories: Approximately 90-120 calories (varies with dressing amount)
Carbohydrates: 8-10g
Protein: 2-3g
Fat: 6-8g (mostly heart-healthy unsaturated fats from olive oil)
Fiber: 2-3g
Vitamins: High in vitamins A, C, and K
Minerals: Good source of potassium, manganese, and magnesium
Water content: Over 90% water, making it incredibly hydrating

Health Benefits of Cucumber Tomato Salad

This simple salad packs a surprising nutritional punch:

Hydration: Both cucumbers and tomatoes have high water content, helping maintain hydration
Antioxidants: Tomatoes provide lycopene, especially beneficial for heart and skin health
Anti-inflammatory properties: Cucumbers contain compounds that may help reduce inflammation
Digestive health: The fiber supports healthy digestion
Weight management: Low in calories but filling due to water and fiber content
Heart health: The combination of potassium, fiber, and antioxidants supports cardiovascular health

I always notice how refreshed and satisfied I feel after eating this salad, especially during hot weather when staying hydrated is essential!

Cucumber Salad with Tomatoes

Emma

Need a quick, healthy salad? This Cucumber Salad with Tomatoes is crisp, delicious, and perfect for any meal. Learn how to make it in minutes!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 0

Total Time 15

Course Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine American, Mediterranean

Servings 4

Calories 90 kcal

Ingredients

2 English cucumbers or 4 Persian cucumbers, thinly sliced
1 pint cherry tomatoes halved
1/2 red onion thinly sliced
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 clove garlic minced (optional)
1/4 cup fresh herbs such as basil, dill, or parsley, chopped
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon honey or sugar optional

Instructions

Wash and slice the cucumbers into thin rounds (about 1/8 inch thick). If using garden cucumbers, you may want to peel them.
Halve the cherry tomatoes, or cut larger tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
Thinly slice the red onion into half-moons.
Optional: To reduce the sharpness of the onion, place sliced onions in a bowl of ice water for 10 minutes, then drain and pat dry.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and honey (if using) to create the dressing.
In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions.
Pour the dressing over the vegetables.
Add the chopped fresh herbs and toss gently to combine all ingredients.
Let the salad sit for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Keyword Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad, Easy Cucumber Tomato Salad, gluten-free

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to the most common questions I receive about cucumber tomato salad:

Can I make cucumber tomato salad ahead of time?

Yes, but with some precautions. For best results, prepare components separately and combine up to 4 hours before serving. For longer storage, keep cucumbers and tomatoes separate until serving time, as tomatoes can become mealy in the refrigerator.

How long does cucumber tomato salad last in the refrigerator?

Dressed cucumber tomato salad will remain good for 1-2 days, though the vegetables will soften and release more water over time. Undressed, prepped ingredients can last 3-4 days when stored properly.

Do I need to peel the cucumbers?

It depends on the type of cucumber and personal preference. English/hothouse and Persian cucumbers have thin, tender skins that don’t require peeling. Regular garden cucumbers have thicker, sometimes bitter skins that you may want to remove. If using unwaxed, organic cucumbers, leaving the skin on adds color, nutrition, and texture.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Fresh herbs provide the best flavor for cucumber tomato salad, but dried herbs can work in a pinch. Use about 1/3 the amount called for in the recipe, as dried herbs are more concentrated. Dried oregano and dill work better than dried basil or parsley, which can lose much of their flavor when dried.

How can I make my cucumber tomato salad less watery?

Salt and drain the cucumbers before mixing, remove seeds from tomatoes, and add the dressing just before serving. Using English or Persian cucumbers and Roma tomatoes will also result in a less watery salad.

What’s the best type of vinegar to use?

Red wine vinegar is classic, but white wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, and rice vinegar all work well. Balsamic vinegar can overwhelm the delicate flavors but can be used sparingly. Fresh lemon or lime juice makes an excellent alternative to vinegar.

Can I make cucumber tomato salad without onions?

Absolutely! The salad is still delicious without onions. You can either omit them entirely or substitute with milder alternatives like chives or green onions if you want a hint of onion flavor without the strength.

Is cucumber tomato salad keto-friendly?

Yes! Cucumbers and tomatoes are both low in carbs, making this salad suitable for keto diets when using a sugar-free dressing. Tomatoes do contain some carbs, so keep portions moderate if strictly counting carbs.

Can I add protein to make this a complete meal?

Definitely! Add chickpeas, white beans, grilled chicken, hard-boiled eggs, tuna, feta cheese, or tofu to transform this side dish into a satisfying main meal.

Final Thoughts

There’s something deeply satisfying about a dish that’s simultaneously simple and spectacular. Cucumber tomato salad embodies that perfect balance – accessible enough for beginners yet versatile enough to keep experienced cooks interested.

What I love most about this salad is how it connects us to seasonal eating patterns. When gardens and farmers’ markets overflow with fresh cucumbers and tomatoes in summer, this salad becomes not just delicious but economical and environmentally friendly.

Whether you’re making the classic version for a quick weeknight side or exploring international variations for your next dinner party, cucumber tomato salad deserves a permanent spot in your recipe collection. It’s stood the test of time across cultures for good reason!

I hope this guide inspires you to create your own perfect cucumber tomato salad. Remember, the beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability – don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own!

Have you tried making cucumber tomato salad before? What’s your favorite variation? I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below!

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