Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad: A Crisp and Vibrant Delight
There’s something truly refreshing about a simple salad that celebrates the natural flavors of fresh vegetables. This Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad is exactly that — a crisp, colorful, and vibrant dish that’s perfect for warm-weather meals, quick lunches, or as a delightful side to grilled dishes. With its bright crunch and tangy dressing, it brings a welcome burst of freshness to any table.
Rooted in Mediterranean-inspired flavors, this salad combines garden-fresh cucumbers and sweet cherry tomatoes with just the right balance of acidity and a touch of sweetness. Whether you’re looking for a light appetizer or a versatile side, this recipe is easy to make and guaranteed to brighten your meals. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and vegan-friendly, making it a crowd-pleaser for all dietary needs.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes, perfect for busy days.
- Bright and Flavorful: Balanced with tangy apple cider vinegar and a hint of honey.
- Versatile: Ideal as a side dish or a fresh topping for grilled meats or sandwiches.
- Healthy and Light: Made from fresh veggies and heart-healthy olive oil.
- Customizable: Add herbs, cheese, or nuts for extra texture and taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced for a crisp texture
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved to release their natural sweetness
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced for a subtle sharpness
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped for a burst of herbaceous flavor
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, for a rich, silky dressing base
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, adding perfect tang
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional), to balance flavors with sweetness
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Vegetables
Start by slicing your cucumber into thin, even rounds—this ensures every bite is crunchy and refreshing. Next, halve the cherry tomatoes to bring out their juicy sweetness, and thinly slice the red onion, which adds a delicate, tangy bite to the salad.
2️⃣ Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey or sugar if you prefer a touch of sweetness. Add a pinch of salt and a few cracks of black pepper. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning until it perfectly balances tang, richness, and a hint of sweetness.
3️⃣ Toss the Salad
Combine the sliced cucumber, halved tomatoes, and red onion in a large bowl. Drizzle the dressing evenly over the vegetables and toss gently until every piece is coated in that flavorful vinaigrette.
4️⃣ Garnish and Serve
Finish by sprinkling the chopped parsley over the top for a fresh pop of green and herbaceous flavor. Serve immediately for a crisp, refreshing salad, or refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to let the flavors mingle and deepen.
Expert Tips & Variations
- Use English or Persian cucumbers for thinner skins and fewer seeds, meaning no peeling necessary.
- Soak red onions in cold water for 5 minutes if you want to mellow their sharpness.
- Add fresh herbs like dill, basil, or mint for an aromatic twist.
- Toss in crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy, tangy contrast.
- Add toasted nuts or seeds such as pine nuts or pumpkin seeds for crunch.
- Try lemon juice instead of vinegar for a bright citrus flavor.
Important Notes
- Serve fresh for best texture—the salad is crispest within a couple of hours after dressing.
- Adjust salt gradually, especially if adding cheese or salty toppings.
- Chilling the salad can enhance flavors but avoid overly long storage to prevent sogginess.
- Slice vegetables evenly for the best texture and presentation.
Nutritional Information (per 1-cup serving, approximate)
- Calories: 80 kcal
- Fat: 7g (mostly from olive oil)
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1.2g
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 120mg (varies based on added salt)
This light salad is a nutrient-rich, low-calorie side packed with hydration and antioxidants.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I prepare this salad in advance?
A: Yes! Prepare the veggies and dressing separately, then toss just before serving to maintain crispness.
Q: What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?
A: White wine vinegar or fresh lemon juice are great substitutes.
Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Try bell peppers, radishes, or even thinly sliced zucchini for variety.
Q: Is this salad suitable for keto or low-carb diets?
A: Yes, it’s low in carbs and perfect for keto, paleo, and whole30 lifestyles.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Best eaten fresh.
Serve This Salad With…
Pair your fresh cucumber and tomato salad with grilled chicken, fish, or tacos for a refreshing contrast. It also makes a vibrant topping for toasted bread or a colorful side at your next BBQ.
Enjoy this Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad as your new favorite way to celebrate fresh, simple ingredients and add a crisp, flavorful boost to your meals all year round! 🥒🍅✨