Fresh, crisp, and bright — this Quick Italian Cucumber Salad is an easy side that comes together in minutes. Lightly dressed cucumbers and cherry tomatoes make a refreshing partner for grilled proteins or a picnic spread. If you love creamy twists, try this creamy cucumber salad for a different texture and flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Quick Italian Cucumber Salad
- Bursting with fresh, bright flavors and a simple tangy dressing.
- Ready in under 10 minutes, perfect for weeknights or last-minute sides.
- Great for meal prep and keeps well for 1–2 days in the fridge.
- Family-friendly and pairs easily with sandwiches or pasta salads, like an Italian grinder pasta salad.
Ingredients Needed
- Veggies
- 2 large cucumbers, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- Herbs
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Spices
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Slice the cucumbers and cherry tomatoes. Thinly slice the red onion.
- In a large bowl, combine the cucumbers, tomatoes, onion, and parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions Quick Italian Cucumber Salad
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a light meal.
- Spoon over toasted crostini and top with shaved Parmesan for a simple appetizer.
- Add to a picnic plate with olives and crusty bread.
- Pair with an Italian grinder salad for a classic deli-style combo: serve with an Italian grinder salad.
Tips for Success Quick Italian Cucumber Salad
- Use firm, cold cucumbers for the best crunch.
- Slice cucumbers uniformly so they dress evenly.
- Toss just before serving to keep vegetables crisp.
- Taste and adjust salt and vinegar after chilling to balance flavors.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 48 hours; dressing may separate, so re-toss before serving.
Variations
Here are a few easy ways to change it up:
- Add a diced avocado for creaminess.
- Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced pepperoncini for heat.
- Make it dairy-free by keeping it as-is or adding toasted pine nuts for texture.
Follow us on Pinterest for more cozy ideas.
Quick Italian Cucumber Salad
Fresh, crisp, and bright, this Quick Italian Cucumber Salad is an easy side that comes together in minutes. Lightly dressed cucumbers and cherry tomatoes make a refreshing partner for grilled proteins or a picnic spread.
Ingredients
Veggies
- 2 large large cucumbers, sliced Use firm, cold cucumbers for the best crunch.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced Thinly sliced for best flavor.
Herbs
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
Spices
- to taste salt and pepper Adjust after chilling to balance flavors.
Instructions
Preparation
- Slice the cucumbers and cherry tomatoes. Thinly slice the red onion.
- In a large bowl, combine the cucumbers, tomatoes, onion, and parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
Store in an airtight container for up to 48 hours; dressing may separate, so re-toss before serving.