Cucumber Tomato Salad

Fresh cucumber tomato salad with cherry tomatoes, red onion, thyme, and a simple vinaigrette. An easy summer side dish for any meal.

When garden cucumbers are crisp and tomatoes are bursting with flavour, this easy Cucumber Tomato Salad is the perfect way to showcase them. Tossed in a simple red wine vinaigrette with fresh thyme and red onion, it’s a refreshing side dish that’s ready in minutes.

Juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion come together in a light dressing that complements the vegetables without overpowering them. Perfect for barbecues, picnics, and weeknight dinners, this fresh summer salad pairs beautifully with everything from grilled chicken and burgers to seafood and sandwiches.

Tips for the Best Cucumber Tomato Salad

• Use ripe, sweet tomatoes for the best flavour.
• Slice the red onion as thinly as possible so it blends nicely with the other ingredients.
• Let the salad sit for 10 to 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavours to meld.
• Taste before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, or vinegar as needed.
• Serve chilled for the most refreshing flavour and texture.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The vegetables will release liquid as they sit, so this salad is best enjoyed fresh or within the first day.

Ingredients & Substitutions

• Cherry Tomatoes – Their sweet flavour makes them ideal for this salad, but grape tomatoes or chopped garden tomatoes can also be used.
• English Cucumber – Crisp, mild, and easy to prepare thanks to its thin skin and small seeds.
• Red Onion – Adds colour and a sharp bite. For a milder flavour, soak the sliced onion in cold water for 10 minutes before adding it to the salad.
• Fresh Thyme – Adds a subtle earthy flavour. Fresh basil, parsley, or dill are excellent alternatives.
• Olive Oil – Forms the base of the simple vinaigrette.
• Red Wine Vinegar – Adds brightness and acidity. White wine vinegar or fresh lemon juice can be substituted.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for balancing and enhancing the flavours.

Variations

• Add crumbled feta cheese for a creamy, tangy finish.
• Toss in diced avocado just before serving.
• Add chickpeas for a more substantial salad.
• Include small mozzarella balls and fresh basil for an Italian-inspired variation.
• Mix in diced bell peppers for additional colour and crunch.

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Cucumber Tomato Salad

Yields: 4-6 servings | Prep time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 English cucumber, sliced
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

Directions

1. Place the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion in a large serving bowl.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, black pepper, and fresh thyme until combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
4. Let the salad stand for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the flavours to meld, or serve immediately.