If you’re craving a fresh, vibrant, and utterly irresistible dish, you’ve got to try this Tomato Cucumber Salad Recipe. It’s that perfect balance of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a zesty, herb-infused dressing that brightens up any meal. Whether you want a light lunch or a colorful side for dinner, this salad brings a burst of summer flavors to your table with minimal effort. Once you make it, you’ll understand why it’s become one of my absolute favorites to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Tomato Cucumber Salad Recipe is a breeze because the ingredients are simple, fresh, and each adds its own magic to the final dish. From the crunch of the cucumber to the tang of red wine vinegar, every element plays an essential role in creating that perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color.
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved: Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for the sweetest burst of flavor in every bite.
- 1 large cucumber, sliced into thin rounds or half-moons: Crisp and refreshing, cucumbers provide a cooling bite that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced: Adds a mild sharpness and slight crunch, making the salad more exciting.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn: Basil gives that fresh, aromatic lift that takes the salad to the next level.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: The foundation of the dressing that ties all the flavors together smoothly.
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar: Adds just the right amount of tang and brightness to awaken your taste buds.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors of the vegetables beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Brings a subtle warmth and slight spice to the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: A gentle garlic hint that deepens the dressing’s complexity without overpowering.
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional): For a salty, creamy finishing touch that complements the crisp veggies perfectly.
How to Make Tomato Cucumber Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
First up, grab those fresh veggies and start by halving your cherry tomatoes and slicing the cucumber and red onion into thin rounds or half-moons. These cuts allow each ingredient to mingle wonderfully in the salad, ensuring a mix of textures in every forkful. Toss everything into a nice, large mixing bowl to give you plenty of room to work.
Step 2: Add the Fresh Basil
Next, tear up those fragrant basil leaves and add them right into your bowl of veggies. The torn basil, rather than chopped, releases just the right amount of aroma and flavor without becoming overpowering, giving the salad a fresh herbal note that makes it pop.
Step 3: Whisk the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. This simple homemade dressing is really where the magic happens—it’s tangy, slightly salty, and infused with just enough garlic to bring everything to life without overshadowing the natural flavors of the salad.
Step 4: Combine and Toss
Pour that delicious dressing over your tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and basil, then gently toss everything together. The key here is to mix lightly but thoroughly so every piece gets coated in the flavorful dressing, creating a perfectly balanced salad where every bite sings.
Step 5: Add Feta Cheese
If you’re a fan of feta, sprinkle it on top at this point. The creamy, tangy cheese adds a wonderful contrast to the crisp veggies and bright dressing, making the Tomato Cucumber Salad Recipe even more delightful.
Step 6: Let the Flavors Meld
Patience is a virtue here—let your salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the flavors combine and deepen, turning a simple mix of ingredients into a harmonious medley that’s even better than the sum of its parts.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Finally, dish out your vibrant Tomato Cucumber Salad and enjoy the burst of fresh, Mediterranean-inspired flavors. It’s so satisfying and simple, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner!
How to Serve Tomato Cucumber Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For a little extra flair and flavor, try garnishing your salad with a few fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper, or a drizzle of your favorite balsamic glaze. These tiny touches add visual appeal and a subtle taste boost.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or even a fresh baguette. It’s a fantastic way to lighten up heavier meals or complement Mediterranean and summer-inspired dishes thanks to its fresh, vibrant flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not get a little creative? Serve this salad in hollowed-out tomatoes or cucumbers for a fun presentation, or layer it in a jar for an on-the-go lunch option. The colorful layers look stunning and give your meal an inviting, homemade feel.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, keep your Tomato Cucumber Salad Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best enjoyed within a day to keep the veggies crisp and fresh, though the flavors will continue to meld for a little extra tastiness.
Freezing
This salad is not suitable for freezing due to the high water content of tomatoes and cucumbers, which can become mushy once thawed. It’s definitely a fresh-eating treat best enjoyed fresh.
Reheating
No need to reheat this one! Tomato Cucumber Salad is always served chilled or at room temperature, making it a perfect no-cook dish for any season or occasion.
FAQs
Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
Absolutely! Just chop regular tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Cherry tomatoes just have a naturally sweeter, juicier profile that works wonderfully, but any ripe tomato will do.
Is there a way to make this salad vegan?
Yes, simply leave out the feta cheese. You can also add nuts or seeds for a bit of extra texture and protein if you like.
Can I substitute the red wine vinegar with something else?
Sure! Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice are great alternatives that provide similar acidity and brightness to the dressing.
How long can I prepare the salad in advance?
It’s best to prepare and enjoy this salad within the same day. If prepping in advance, keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving to maintain the veggies’ crispness.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in bell peppers, radishes, or even olives for a tasty twist, but be mindful that extra ingredients can change the classic flavor balance.
Final Thoughts
This Tomato Cucumber Salad Recipe is truly a fresh, simple pleasure that never gets old. It’s the kind of dish that brightens up your day and brings everyone to the table with a smile. From the crisp cucumbers to the juicy tomatoes and fragrant basil, each bite is a celebration of summer’s best flavors. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this salad as much as I do—it’s destined to become a cherished go-to in your recipe collection.
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Tomato Cucumber Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and simple Tomato Cucumber Salad featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, and aromatic basil, all tossed in a tangy red wine vinaigrette and optionally topped with creamy feta cheese. Perfect as a light side dish or summer appetizer with minimal prep and no cooking required.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 large cucumber, sliced into thin rounds or half-moons
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Optional
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Instructions
- Prepare Vegetables: Begin by halving the cherry tomatoes and slicing the cucumber and red onion into thin rounds or half-moons. Place all the prepared vegetables into a large mixing bowl.
- Add Basil: Add the torn fresh basil leaves to the bowl with the vegetables, distributing them evenly.
- Make Dressing: In a small separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until well combined to create the dressing.
- Toss Dressing with Vegetables: Pour the dressing over the vegetables and basil in the large bowl.
- Mix Salad: Gently toss all the ingredients together until the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Add Feta Cheese: If using, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the top of the salad.
- Let Flavors Meld: Allow the salad to sit at room temperature for at least 10 minutes before serving; this helps the flavors to blend nicely.
- Serve: Serve the fresh and vibrant Tomato Cucumber Salad as a refreshing side dish and enjoy.
Notes
- For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or substitute with a plant-based alternative.
- You can add a splash of lemon juice for additional acidity if desired.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator before serving to make it extra refreshing on warm days.
- This salad is best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
