Cucumber Tomato Salad That Screams Summer

There’s something magical about the snap of fresh cucumber and the juicy pop of ripe tomatoes. This cucumber tomato salad is my go-to when the sun’s blazing, the grill’s heating up, and all I want is something cool, crisp, and wildly satisfying. It’s light, zippy, and ridiculously easy to throw together. You’re going to love this one promise.

Where This Recipe Comes From

My Summer Garden Favorite

Every summer, my mom’s backyard would explode with tomato vines and wild parsley. I’d help her gather armfuls of cucumbers from the garden still warm from the sun and we’d slice them up right there on the patio. She always had a big glass bowl waiting, ready to toss it all in a tangy vinegar dressing. It’s the kind of memory that just smells like sunshine.

Why It Matters to Me

A Bowl of Crunchy Comfort

Now that I’m the one cooking, I keep this salad close. It’s fast. It’s fresh. And every bite gives you that perfect sweet-acid balance that makes your mouth happy. Whether it’s a solo lunch or a dish to share, this salad just fits no fuss, all flavor.

What Makes This Salad Shine

Freshness + Simplicity

The real stars here? Crunchy cucumbers and juicy grape tomatoes. Red onion brings the zip, parsley keeps it bright, and a quick homemade vinaigrette pulls everything together. Nothing fancy, just clean, crisp goodness. You can easily mix it up with zucchini, different herbs, or cherry tomatoes whatever you’ve got.

If you’re craving more crunch and vinegar tang, try this zesty Korean cucumber salad next time.

My Favorite Add-Ons

From Cheese to Crunch

You know what makes this even better? A few crumbles of feta or creamy mozzarella balls. Maybe a handful of chopped walnuts for crunch. Or some grilled chicken if you want to turn it into lunch. Don’t forget fresh herbs like basil or dill they take things up a notch.

Love creamy salads too? This creamy cucumber salad is a crowd-pleaser with just the right richness.

How To Make This Cucumber Tomato Salad

Step-by-Step Prep

Making this salad is as easy as flipping on a fan and pouring a cold drink.

1. Wash and chop: Slice 1 English cucumber into rounds, then quarter them. Halve 2 cups of grape tomatoes. Thinly slice ½ cup of red onion. Chop a handful of fresh parsley.
2. Mix the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup olive oil, 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1 teaspoon dried basil, and a few good pinches of salt and pepper.
3. Toss together: Throw everything into a big bowl. Drizzle the dressing over and toss gently until it all glistens.
4. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for 1–2 hours. Letting it soak brings everything to life.

Pro tip: Use a wooden spoon to toss gently no squished tomatoes allowed.

When and How I Serve It

From Lazy Lunches to Sunny BBQs

This salad is my go-to for everything from weekday lunches to backyard BBQs. It pairs perfectly with grilled meats, crusty bread, or a bowl of soup. For tomato lovers, don’t miss this vibrant fresh tomato salsa perfect on tacos or as a snack.

Handy Tips for the Best Flavor

• Chill it for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld
• Chop everything bite-sized for better texture
• Add fresh herbs just before serving for a bold pop
• Don’t overdress just enough to coat is perfect

FAQ

Try it, tweak it, toss in your favorite extras and let me know what you think. Leave a comment or snap a photo and tag us.

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