There’s nothing quite like a simple dish that tastes like sunshine. This cucumber tomato salad truly delivers on that promise. It’s a vibrant symphony of crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes, dressed in a zesty vinaigrette. You’ll love its refreshing crunch!

I often whip this up on warm evenings, when I crave something light. It’s perfect with grilled chicken or fish. My family also devours it at potlucks, always asking for the recipe.

Why I Love This Recipe

This cucumber tomato salad holds a special place in my heart! It’s

Super quick: Ready in minutes for busy weeknights.
Bursting with flavor: Each bite is so refreshing.
A crowd-pleaser: Everyone always asks for seconds.
So versatile: It goes with almost any meal.

It truly makes healthy eating feel easy and delicious. This salad is sunshine in a bowl!

Cucumber Tomato Salad Ingredients

Creating this amazing cucumber tomato salad starts with fresh, vibrant ingredients. Each one plays a part, building layers of flavor and delightful textures. It’s truly a delicious combination!

Cucumbers: These are the star, providing that cool, crisp crunch. I love English cucumbers for fewer seeds.
Roma Tomatoes: Their firm texture and sweet juiciness are perfect. They hold up well in the salad.
Red Onion: Just a little bit adds a fantastic, tangy bite. Sliced thin, it’s not too overpowering.
Fresh Basil: This herb brings a sweet, aromatic note. It instantly makes the salad feel gourmet.
Fresh Dill: Its unique, slightly tangy flavor truly brightens things up. It pairs so well with cucumbers.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The base of our vinaigrette, it adds richness. Use a good quality oil for the best taste.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This creates a lovely tang in our dressing. It’s wonderfully refreshing and healthy too.
Red Wine Vinegar: A touch gives depth and a little extra zip. It complements the apple cider vinegar well.
Granulated Sugar: Just a pinch balances the acidity of the vinegars. It creates a harmonious dressing.
Kosher Salt: Essential for seasoning, it brings out all the flavors. Always add to your taste!
Black Pepper: A fresh grind adds a subtle, warm spiciness. It finishes the dressing perfectly.

Substitutions and Tips

Don’t have fresh dill? No worries! You can use dried dill in a pinch. Start with less and add more. Feel free to swap red onion for green onions too. If you prefer, a splash of lemon juice could replace some vinegar. For exact measurements, check out the printable recipe card below!

How to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad

Making this cucumber tomato salad is so simple. It’s a breeze, truly! You’ll be enjoying this fresh salad in no time. Follow these easy steps for delicious results.

Preparing Your Vegetables

First, wash all your veggies well. Slice those crisp cucumbers. Aim for about 3 cups. Next, chop up your Roma tomatoes. You’ll need roughly 2 ½ cups. Then, thinly slice the red onion. Just ½ cup is perfect. Now, julienne or chop your fresh basil. About ¼ cup will do. Finally, chop your fresh dill. Two teaspoons works wonders. Place all these lovely ingredients in a large bowl. Toss them gently to combine everything. This colorful mix is already looking amazing!

Whisking the Vinaigrette Dressing

Grab a large measuring cup now. Or, a small bowl works too. Add ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil. Pour in ¾ cup of apple cider vinegar. Don’t forget 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar. Spoon in 1 teaspoon granulated sugar. Add ¼ teaspoon kosher salt. A dash of black pepper (¼ teaspoon) finishes it. Whisk everything together really well. Make sure the sugar dissolves completely. This simple dressing really makes the salad sing!

Combining and Tossing for the Perfect Cucumber Tomato Salad

Now for the fun part! Take your whisked vinaigrette dressing. Drizzle it all over the prepared vegetables. Use a large spoon or salad tongs. Toss the ingredients gently. You want every piece coated evenly. Make sure that beautiful dressing hugs each veggie. This ensures every bite is flavorful. This is how you get a perfect summer salad! Serve your delicious cucumber tomato salad right away. It’s truly a delight!

How to Store Cucumber Tomato Salad

Storing your cucumber tomato salad properly is important. It helps keep it fresh and tasty. I always recommend eating it within a few hours. That’s when it tastes the best. The cucumbers stay super crisp then. If you have leftovers, no problem at all. Just make sure to use an airtight container. This keeps air out, preserving the freshness. Place the container in your refrigerator right away. This fresh salad can last for up to two days. However, the vegetables might get softer. The dressing can also make them a bit watery. This is totally normal, though. A quick gentle stir can help. Enjoy your delicious leftovers soon!

Tips for Success

Choose firm, fresh vegetables for best texture.
Slice onions very thinly to avoid harshness.
Always taste your dressing before adding to salad.
Adjust salt and pepper to your personal preference.
Don’t over-dress the salad; add a little at a time.
Serve immediately for the crispiest results.
Use quality vinegars and olive oil for flavor.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Large mixing bowl: Essential for tossing ingredients.
Sharp knife: Makes chopping veggies easy and safe.
Cutting board: Protects your counters.
Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient amounts.
Whisk or fork: To perfectly blend your vinaigrette.
Salad tongs: Great for gentle tossing and serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this salad with grilled chicken or fish.
It pairs wonderfully with juicy burgers.
Enjoy it as a light and refreshing side dish.
Add crumbled feta cheese for extra zing.
Garnish with fresh parsley for color.
It’s amazing with crusty bread for dipping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cucumber tomato salad ahead of time?

You certainly can! While it’s best served fresh, you can prep the veggies beforehand. Keep the dressing separate until just before serving. This ensures your cucumber tomato salad stays crisp.

What are some variations for this fresh salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add diced bell peppers for more color. A sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese adds lovely tang. You could also try different fresh herbs like mint or cilantro for a new twist. This fresh salad is very adaptable!

How long does cucumber tomato salad last in the fridge?

This tasty cucumber tomato salad can last up to 2 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. The veggies might soften a bit, but it will still be delicious. Give it a gentle toss before serving the leftovers!

Conclusion

There you have it, friends! This cucumber tomato salad is more than just a recipe. It’s a simple joy, a burst of summer in every bite. I truly love how effortlessly it comes together. It brightens up any meal, adding freshness and flavor. Whether you’re a busy mom or a professional woman, this salad fits right into your life. It proves that delicious, healthy food doesn’t need to be complicated. So go ahead, give it a try this week! You’ll be so glad you did. Enjoy every refreshing spoonful!