Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe
Cucumber Tomato Salad is a fresh, vibrant and healthy side dish made with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, red onion, fragrant herbs and a light homemade dressing. Ready in just 15 minutes, this colourful salad is perfect for BBQs, picnics, potlucks or everyday family meals. Refreshing, flavourful and incredibly easy to prepare, it's a delicious way to enjoy fresh vegetables any time of the year.
Equipment
- 1 Chef's Knife -
- 1 Cutting Board -
- 1 Large Mixing Bowl
- 1 Small Bowl –
- 1 Whisk
- 1 Serving Bowl -
- Salad Servers:
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers
- 5 medium ripe tomatoes
- 1 medium red onion
- 3 tablespoons fresh parsley - chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill - chopped
- 4 tablespoons olive oil - extra virgin
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 2 garlic cloves - minced
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon honey - optional
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
- Wash the cucumbers thoroughly under cold running water.
- Trim both ends before slicing them into thin rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference.
- If the cucumbers contain many seeds, remove some using a spoon before slicing.
- Transfer the sliced cucumbers into a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Prepare the Tomatoes
- Wash the tomatoes carefully.
- Cut each tomato into bite-sized wedges or chunks.
- Remove any tough stem sections.
- Add the tomatoes to the bowl with the cucumbers.
Step 3: Slice the Onion
- Peel the red onion.
- Slice it into very thin strips for a milder flavour throughout the salad.
- If desired, soak the onion slices in cold water for 10 minutes to reduce their sharpness.
- Drain well before adding them to the vegetables.
Step 4: Prepare the Herbs
- Finely chop the fresh parsley.
- Chop the dill into small pieces.
- Sprinkle both herbs evenly over the vegetables.
Step 5: Make the Dressing
- Pour the olive oil into a small bowl.
- Add the fresh lemon juice.
- Stir in the red wine vinegar.
- Add the minced garlic.
- Mix in the honey, if using.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Whisk vigorously until the dressing becomes smooth and fully combined.
Step 6: Assemble the Salad
- Pour the dressing evenly over the vegetables.
- Gently fold everything together using salad servers or a large spoon.
- Ensure every piece of cucumber and tomato is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes before serving to allow the flavours to develop.
Notes
- 🥒 For the freshest flavour and crunch, use firm cucumbers and ripe but firm tomatoes.
- 🍅 Slice the vegetables into similar-sized pieces to ensure even flavour and an attractive presentation.
- 🧅 If you prefer a milder onion flavour, soak the sliced red onion in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain well before adding it to the salad.
- 🌿 Fresh herbs such as parsley and dill provide the best flavour. Avoid dried herbs if possible.
- 🫒 Use good-quality extra virgin olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice for a brighter, more flavourful dressing.
- 🥗 Toss the salad gently to keep the tomatoes intact and prevent them from becoming mushy.
- ❄️ Chill the Cucumber Tomato Salad for 15–30 minutes before serving to allow the flavours to blend beautifully.
- 🧂 Season just before serving to help maintain the vegetables' crisp texture and reduce excess moisture.
- 🍽️ This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- 🚫 Freezing is not recommended, as the cucumbers and tomatoes will lose their crisp texture after thawing.
- 🌞 Perfect as a refreshing side dish for grilled meats, seafood, rice dishes, sandwiches, picnics, potlucks and summer barbecues.
- 🧀 Feel free to customise the salad by adding feta cheese, avocado, olives or chickpeas for extra flavour and texture.