Bright bursts of ruby-red cherry tomatoes mingle with crisp, cool slices of cucumber in this delightful Tomato Cucumber Salad. Each forkful sends your taste buds on a joyful spark of freshness, as the juicy tomatoes gently pop, releasing a sweet-tart juice that dances with the crisp cucumber rounds. There’s something almost magical about how a handful of basic ingredients—red onion, freshly torn basil, a drizzle of olive oil, a splash of red wine vinegar, and a sprinkle of garlic powder—can transform into a sensational side dish that steals the show at any table. As a home cook who treasures the simplicity of garden-to-plate recipes, I find myself reaching for this salad time and again when I crave something light yet deeply satisfying.
Recently, I brought this vibrant salad to a casual backyard barbecue, and within minutes, guests were clamoring for seconds. It’s not just the rainbow of colors that draws them in; it’s the way each element complements the next. The sweet notes of cherry tomatoes contrast beautifully with the sharp bite of red onion, while the fragrant basil leaves weave a subtle but irresistible herbal thread through every bite. Salesy labels aside, this is truly a beginner-friendly recipe: no cooking required, just 15 minutes of hands-on time and a brief 10-minute rest to let the flavors meld. At just around 200 calories per serving, it’s a guilt-free champion for any occasion—be it a solo lunch, a potluck contribution, or a fresh accompaniment to grilled mains.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN TOMATO CUCUMBER SALAD
Every sensational salad begins with quality components that bring both flavor and texture to life. This Tomato Cucumber Salad thrives on simplicity, with each ingredient playing a vital role in crafting a harmonious blend that bursts with summer energy.
- Cherry Tomatoes
These juicy orbs deliver a sweet-tart pop with every bite, providing vibrant color and a hydrating burst of flavor that balances the crunch of cucumber.
- Cucumber
Thinly sliced for maximum crispness, cucumber adds a cool, refreshing quality and a delicate crunch that contrasts beautifully with softer ingredients.
- Red Onion
Thin rings of red onion lend a bright, pungent bite, injecting a subtle sharpness that elevates the overall taste profile without overpowering the salad.
- Basil Leaves
Torn basil infuses the dish with aromatic, peppery notes and a touch of garden-fresh herbaceousness that ties the ingredients together.
- Olive Oil
A silky, fruity base for the dressing, olive oil brings richness and helps coat each vegetable evenly.
- Red Wine Vinegar
This tangy splash adds lively acidity that cuts through the oil’s richness and enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Salt
A fundamental seasoning that elevates every flavor, ensuring each component shines.
- Black Pepper
Freshly ground pepper contributes a mild heat and earthy undertones, rounding out the dressing.
- Garlic Powder
A subtle layer of savory depth that complements the crisp vegetables without overwhelming their delicate profiles.
- Feta Cheese
Optional but highly recommended, crumbled feta brings creamy, salty pockets that melt in your mouth and add a luxurious finish.
HOW TO MAKE TOMATO CUCUMBER SALAD
Preparing this salad is a breeze, yet every step lets you infuse a dash of love and intention into the final dish. Gather your freshest produce and your favorite mixing bowls—soon you’ll have a vibrant side that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
1. Begin by preparing your vegetables: halve the cherry tomatoes and slice the cucumber and red onion into thin rounds or half-moons. Take care to use a sharp knife for clean cuts, then place all the sliced vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the torn basil leaves to the bowl, gently tucking the leafy bits among the tomatoes, cucumber, and onion so every forkful will capture that signature herbal aroma.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until the dressing turns smooth and slightly emulsified.
4. Pour the dressing evenly over the vegetables in the large mixing bowl, ensuring no corner is left untouched by the tangy, olive-oil-rich blend.
5. Gently toss the ingredients with clean hands or salad tongs, working from the bottom so each slice glistens with flavor and color.
6. If you’d like a bit of creaminess, sprinkle the feta cheese over the top, letting those salty crumbles rest on the vegetables.
7. Allow the salad to sit for at least 10 minutes before serving. This resting period encourages the flavors to meld, balancing acidity, sweetness, and herbal notes.
8. Serve and enjoy your fresh Tomato Cucumber Salad, savoring every crisp, vibrant bite.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR TOMATO CUCUMBER SALAD
When it comes to showcasing this colorful salad, a little creativity goes a long way. Whether you’re plating for a family dinner or setting up a festive buffet, these serving ideas will help you elevate the dish and win over every palate.
- As a side to grilled proteins
Pair the salad with grilled chicken or steak kabobs. The cool, zesty flavors contrast beautifully with smoky meats—serve on a chilled platter to keep everything crisp.
- In individual mason jars
Layer the salad in tall mason jars for a trendy, portable presentation. Start with dressing at the bottom, then add tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, basil, and feta—shake well just before eating.
- Over crusty artisan bread
Top thick slices of toasted ciabatta or sourdough with a generous scoop of the salad. The bread soaks up the dressing for a deliciously rustic bruschetta twist.
- Alongside Mediterranean staples
Create a colorful mezze board by placing bowls of hummus, olives, and pita next to the salad. Its bright flavors tie together the spread, making every bite an adventure.
HOW TO STORE TOMATO CUCUMBER SALAD
To keep your salad tasting as fresh as the day you made it, a few simple storage strategies will go a long way. Proper refrigeration and careful handling help maintain the vibrant texture and zesty flavors—even if you make a big batch ahead of time.
When storing:
- Seal in an airtight container
Transfer the salad from the serving bowl into a container with a tight-fitting lid. This prevents moisture loss and stops the vegetables from absorbing other fridge odors.
- Keep the dressing separate
If you know you’ll have leftovers, store the dressing in a small jar on the side. Toss just before serving again so cucumbers retain their crunch and tomatoes stay plump.
- Consume within two days
For optimal freshness, enjoy leftovers within 48 hours. After that, cucumbers may soften and tomatoes could become watery.
- Stir gently before serving
Give the salad a soft toss to redistribute any dressing that has settled at the bottom and revive its original vibrancy.
CONCLUSION
This Tomato Cucumber Salad has everything you need for a show-stopping, yet effortlessly simple, addition to your summer repertoire. From the burst of juicy cherry tomatoes and the crisp crunch of cucumber to the bright zing of red wine vinegar and the aromatic lift of torn basil, every ingredient plays a starring role. With only 15 minutes of preparation, zero cooking time, and a brief 10-minute rest, this beginner-friendly recipe proves that incredible flavor doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, a light lunch, or a refreshing side for dinner, the versatility of this salad adapts to every occasion. Feel free to print this article and save it for later use—keep it taped to the fridge or stashed in your favorite recipe binder. You’ll also find a FAQ below to answer any lingering questions you might have, from ingredient swaps to advanced presentation tips.
I’d love to hear how your own Tomato Cucumber Salad adventure turns out! Did you swap in mint for basil this time? Maybe you’ve discovered a unique serving style or a beloved add-in that makes the dish truly yours. Leave a comment if you have thoughts, questions, or feedback on the process. If you hit a snag or need help tweaking flavors, I’m here to chat and troubleshoot. Your kitchen stories make these recipes come alive—so share away!
Tomato Cucumber Salad
Description
This Tomato Cucumber Salad bursts with vibrant colors and fresh flavors, combining juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and aromatic basil. It's a delightful addition to any summer meal or picnic.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Begin by preparing your vegetables: halve the cherry tomatoes and slice the cucumber and red onion. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
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Add the torn basil leaves to the bowl with the prepared vegetables.
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In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to form a dressing.
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Pour the dressing over the vegetables in the large mixing bowl.
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Gently toss the ingredients together until they are evenly coated with the dressing.
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If desired, sprinkle the feta cheese over the top of the salad.
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Allow the salad to sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
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Serve and enjoy your fresh Tomato Cucumber Salad.
Note
- This salad is best served fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- You can add other herbs like parsley or mint for additional flavor.
- Use heirloom tomatoes for a more colorful presentation.
- This is a light and refreshing dish perfect for summer picnics or grill sessions.
