Introduction of Recipe

If there’s one dish that instantly says “summer,” it’s this Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe. Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, thinly sliced onions, and a light homemade dressing come together in a bowl of pure freshness. It’s simple, vibrant, and exactly the kind of recipe Pinterest home cooks love—quick to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for gatherings.

This easy cucumber tomato salad is a staple at backyard BBQs, potlucks, weeknight dinners, and holiday cookouts across the United States. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, and comfort food classics. Best of all? It takes just minutes to prepare.

Whether you’re looking for a healthy cucumber tomato onion salad, a refreshing side for summer, or a light salad recipe that won’t weigh you down, this one checks every box.

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3. History / Background

The beauty of cucumber tomato salad lies in its simplicity—and its global roots.

Variations of cucumber and tomato salads appear in many cuisines around the world. In the Mediterranean, you’ll find similar versions in Greek and Italian cooking. In Eastern Europe, vinegar-based cucumber salads are traditional. In American kitchens, the salad became especially popular in the South and Midwest, where home gardens overflowed with cucumbers and tomatoes during the summer months.

Tomatoes originally come from Central and South America, while cucumbers have been cultivated for thousands of years in Asia and the Middle East. Over time, these ingredients made their way into European cuisine and then into American kitchens.

In regions like the southern United States, a simple cucumber tomato onion salad dressed with vinegar, oil, salt, and pepper became a seasonal classic. Families passed down their versions for generations—some sweet, some tangy, some with fresh herbs.

What makes this dish special is that it’s adaptable. It can be Mediterranean-inspired, Southern-style, or garden-fresh and modern. But at its heart, it’s always about celebrating peak-season produce.

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4. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This easy cucumber tomato salad recipe is the kind of dish you’ll come back to again and again.

It’s refreshing, healthy, and incredibly versatile. Plus, it requires zero cooking, making it perfect for hot summer days when you don’t want to turn on the stove.

Here’s why you’ll love it:

• ✅ Ready in under 20 minutes

• ✅ No cooking required

• ✅ Light, healthy, and naturally gluten-free

• ✅ Low-calorie and low-carb

• ✅ Budget-friendly ingredients

• ✅ Perfect for BBQs and potlucks

• ✅ Great way to use garden vegetables

• ✅ Family-friendly and kid-approved

If you love fresh summer flavors, this healthy cucumber tomato salad will quickly become a household favorite.

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5. Ingredient Notes

Let’s break down the simple ingredients that make this cucumber tomato salad recipe shine.

Cucumbers

English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers are ideal because they’re less watery and have fewer seeds. If using regular cucumbers, consider peeling and seeding them.

Substitution: Zucchini (thinly sliced) can work in a pinch.

Tomatoes

Use ripe, firm tomatoes for best flavor. Roma tomatoes hold their shape well, while cherry or grape tomatoes add sweetness and color.

Tip: Avoid overly soft tomatoes—they’ll make the salad watery.

Red Onion

Adds a sharp, slightly sweet bite that balances the freshness.

Substitution: Sweet onion or shallots for a milder flavor.

Olive Oil

Extra virgin olive oil provides richness and balances the acidity.

Red Wine Vinegar

Adds bright tangy flavor. You can also use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar.

Fresh Herbs (Optional but Recommended)

Fresh parsley, dill, or basil elevate the salad beautifully.

Salt & Pepper

Simple seasoning enhances the natural sweetness of tomatoes.

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6. Equipment Needed

• Sharp knife

• Cutting board

• Large mixing bowl

• Small bowl (for dressing)

• Whisk or fork

• Measuring spoons

• Serving bowl or platter

That’s it—simple tools for a simple salad.

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Tips & Variations

This cucumber tomato onion salad is incredibly versatile.

🧀 Add Feta

Turn it into a Mediterranean-style salad by adding crumbled feta cheese.

🥑 Add Avocado

For creaminess and healthy fats.

🌶 Make It Spicy

Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

🧄 Garlic Lovers

Add a small minced garlic clove to the dressing.

🥒 Creamy Version

Mix in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or sour cream for a creamy cucumber tomato salad.

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10. Pro Chef Tips

• Use a mandoline for perfectly even cucumber slices.

• Season tomatoes separately with a pinch of salt before mixing.

• Let the salad rest for 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

• Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

• Use high-quality olive oil—it makes a noticeable difference.

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11. Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Over-salting early – Causes excess water release.

2. Using watery tomatoes – Choose firm, ripe varieties.

3. Skipping the resting time – Flavors need time to develop.

4. Over-mixing – Gentle tossing prevents mushy tomatoes.

5. Serving ice-cold – Slightly chilled or room temperature is best.

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12. Storage & Meal Prep

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

• Best eaten within 24 hours.

• Stir before serving as juices settle.

• Do not reheat—this is a cold salad.

If meal prepping, store dressing separately and combine before serving.

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13. Make-Ahead & Freezer Notes

Can it be made ahead?

Yes, but for best texture, combine dressing just before serving.

Freezer-Friendly?

No. Cucumbers and tomatoes become mushy after freezing.

Best Serving Method

Chill lightly, then bring out 10 minutes before serving.

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14. Serving Suggestions

This healthy cucumber tomato salad pairs beautifully with:

• Grilled chicken

• Burgers

• BBQ ribs

• Grilled salmon

• Sandwiches and wraps

• Garlic bread

• Lemonade or iced tea

It’s the perfect refreshing balance to heavier comfort foods.

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15. FAQs Section

1. Can I make cucumber tomato salad ahead of time?

Yes, but store dressing separately for best texture.

2. How do I keep it from getting watery?

Salt just before serving and use firm tomatoes.

3. Can I use cherry tomatoes?

Absolutely! They add sweetness and color.

4. Is this salad healthy?

Yes, it’s low-calorie, low-carb, and packed with fresh vegetables.

5. What herbs go best?

Parsley, dill, and basil are all excellent choices.

6. Can I make it creamy?

Yes—add Greek yogurt or sour cream for a creamy twist.

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16. Conclusion

This easy cucumber tomato salad recipe is fresh, simple, and bursting with flavor. It’s the kind of reliable, healthy side dish every home cook needs in their rotation—especially during summer.

If you try this refreshing cucumber tomato onion salad, leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out. And don’t forget to save it on Pinterest so you can make it again and again!

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17. Pinterest Pin Titles (5 Options)

1. Easy Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe for Summer

2. Fresh & Healthy Cucumber Tomato Onion Salad

3. The Best Simple Cucumber Tomato Salad

4. Quick No-Cook Summer Salad Recipe

5. Light & Refreshing Garden Cucumber Tomato Salad

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18. Pinterest Pin Descriptions (5 Options)

1. This easy cucumber tomato salad recipe is fresh, healthy, and perfect for summer BBQs. Ready in just 15 minutes!

2. Looking for a light and refreshing side dish? This healthy cucumber tomato onion salad is simple and delicious.

3. The perfect no-cook summer salad! Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a tangy dressing.

4. Fresh garden vegetables tossed in a simple vinaigrette—this easy cucumber tomato salad is a must-try!

5. Need a quick side dish? This refreshing cucumber tomato salad pairs perfectly with grilled meals.

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19. Pinterest Hashtags

#CucumberTomatoSalad #SummerSalad #HealthyRecipes #EasySideDish #NoCookRecipe #FreshSalad #BBQSideDish #LowCarbRecipes #GlutenFreeMeals #HomeCooking #GardenRecipes #SimpleRecipes #QuickMeals #VegetarianRecipes #PinterestFood