There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish that feels like summer in a bowl. This cucumber tomato salad is just that—crisp, cool, and refreshingly tangy, with a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s the kind of recipe you can throw together in under 15 minutes, yet it somehow tastes like you spent much longer preparing it. With crunchy cucumbers, juicy grape tomatoes, sharp red onion, and a generous handful of fresh parsley all tossed in a zesty homemade dressing, every bite is a celebration of fresh ingredients done right.
I first made this salad on a particularly hot day when turning on the stove sounded like the worst idea ever. I opened the fridge, saw a few cucumbers, some tomatoes, and half a red onion, and decided to just make something light to go alongside our grilled chicken. I wasn’t expecting much—it was more of a “use what’s in the fridge” situation—but the results completely surprised me. The vinegar-based dressing brought everything to life, the sugar balanced out the acidity, and the herbs tied it all together. My family loved it so much that we’ve made it part of our regular rotation, especially when the weather starts to warm up.
What makes this cucumber tomato salad so special is not only its simplicity but also how customizable and versatile it is. It can be a side dish, a healthy snack, or even a light lunch when paired with a protein. And the best part? It tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for an hour or two, which makes it perfect for meal prep or entertaining. This salad is proof that fresh, wholesome ingredients don’t need much fuss to shine.
Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this cucumber tomato salad, but let’s start with the most obvious—it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and a few pantry staples for the dressing, you can have this salad ready in under 15 minutes. That’s not an exaggeration. You’ll spend more time deciding what to serve it with than you will preparing it.
Another reason this salad wins hearts so easily is its fresh, vibrant flavor. The cucumbers bring that signature cool crunch, while the grape tomatoes add juicy sweetness and brightness. The red onions provide just enough sharpness to contrast the mellow richness of the olive oil dressing. And the fresh parsley gives it a burst of herby freshness that ties all the ingredients together in the most beautiful way.
Beyond flavor, this salad is also incredibly versatile. It’s one of those dishes that fits in everywhere. You can bring it to a potluck, serve it alongside grilled meat or baked fish, enjoy it as a side to your lunch sandwich, or even toss it with some cooked quinoa or chickpeas to turn it into a more filling meal. It’s light, yet satisfying—perfect for hot weather or anytime you want something refreshing and healthy.
Additionally, the ingredients are affordable and accessible. You don’t need to hunt for anything fancy, and if you grow your own herbs or veggies, you might already have everything you need. The dressing is simple but full of flavor—olive oil, red wine vinegar, a bit of sugar for balance, and dried basil. You likely have all of that in your pantry already.
What truly seals the deal, though, is that this salad actually tastes better after chilling for a bit. So if you’re the type who likes to plan ahead or prep meals for the week, this recipe has your back. It’s not just easy and tasty—it’s reliable.
Health Benefits of this Cucumber Tomato Salad
This cucumber tomato salad isn’t just a treat for your taste buds—it’s also packed with health benefits that make it a smart choice for any meal. First, let’s talk about cucumbers. These crisp green veggies are low in calories but high in water content, which helps keep you hydrated throughout the day. They’re also a good source of vitamin K, which supports bone health, and they contain antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Next up are the grape tomatoes. These little bursts of flavor are full of important nutrients, especially vitamin C, which is essential for immune health, and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that may help reduce the risk of certain diseases, including heart disease. Tomatoes are also rich in potassium, a mineral that supports healthy blood pressure levels and contributes to heart health.
The red onion in this recipe brings its own set of benefits to the table. Red onions contain compounds like quercetin and sulfur, which are known for their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. They may also support better heart health and improve circulation. Plus, their sharp, slightly sweet flavor adds a lot of dimension to the salad without needing to rely on high-calorie additions.
The parsley shouldn’t be underestimated either. Often used as just a garnish, parsley is actually packed with vitamins A, C, and K. It also has antioxidant properties and supports kidney health thanks to its diuretic effects. Including fresh herbs like parsley in your diet is a great way to boost your nutrient intake with very few calories.
Finally, the dressing made from olive oil and red wine vinegar is both flavorful and heart-healthy. Olive oil contains monounsaturated fats that support cholesterol balance and overall heart health. Red wine vinegar, while tangy and bold, has been associated with improved digestion and blood sugar regulation. Altogether, this salad is low in calories, rich in antioxidants, full of fiber, and naturally gluten-free. It’s a refreshing way to nourish your body and fuel your day.
Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information
One of the standout qualities of this cucumber tomato salad is how quickly it comes together. From start to finish, you’re looking at about 15 minutes of prep time. That includes washing, chopping, whisking the dressing, and tossing everything together. After that, you’ll want to let it chill in the fridge for at least one hour to allow the flavors to really meld together, although it’s totally fine if you serve it right away, too.
Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Chilling Time (Optional, but recommended): 1–2 hours
Total Time: Approximately 15 minutes active, plus chilling
Servings: This recipe yields about 4 generous servings as a side dish
Calories Per Serving: ~167 calories
Basic Nutritional Profile per Serving:
Calories: 167
Protein: 1.5g
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Sugar: 5g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: Variable (based on added salt)
These numbers make it a perfect addition to nearly any eating plan, whether you’re focusing on lighter meals, trying to eat more whole foods, or simply looking for a balanced side that won’t weigh you down. This salad is naturally vegetarian and gluten-free, and with halal-friendly ingredients, it’s widely suitable for various dietary needs.
It’s worth noting that the fat in this dish comes mainly from the olive oil, which provides healthy monounsaturated fats known for their heart-protective qualities. The sugar content is modest and serves to balance the vinegar’s acidity rather than make the salad sweet. If you’re watching your sugar intake, you can reduce the sugar to ½ tablespoon or use a natural alternative like honey or date syrup. Either way, this salad remains a wholesome choice.
Ingredients List of this Cucumber Tomato Salad
You don’t need a long list of ingredients to make a memorable dish. This cucumber tomato salad proves that point beautifully. All the ingredients are fresh, simple, and easy to find, making it ideal for quick meals or impromptu gatherings. Here’s what you’ll need to make it:
Vegetables and Herbs:
- 1 English cucumber, sliced and quartered: This variety of cucumber has thin skin and fewer seeds, making it perfect for salads. The crunch it adds is unbeatable.
- 2 cups grape tomatoes, halved: Grape tomatoes are juicy and sweet, with a firmer texture than cherry tomatoes. They hold up well in salads and don’t get mushy.
- ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced: Red onions are milder and sweeter than yellow or white onions, and their vibrant color adds visual appeal. Thin slices ensure their sharpness doesn’t overwhelm the dish.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Parsley adds a fresh, herby note that balances the acidity of the dressing. Flat-leaf parsley is ideal, but curly works too.
For the Dressing:
- ¼ cup olive oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor and health benefits. It’s rich, fruity, and helps carry the other flavors throughout the salad.
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar: This gives the salad its zippy tang and helps cut through the richness of the olive oil.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: This small amount balances the acidity and makes the salad more palatable without being sweet.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a subtle earthiness and complements the fresh parsley beautifully.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Start with a pinch of each, then adjust to your preference once the salad is dressed.
Optional Add-ins:
- Sliced black olives for a briny punch
- Crumbled feta for a creamy, salty element
- Cooked chickpeas for added protein and heartiness
This salad is a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients, when combined with care, can result in something really special.
Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions
One of the most appealing things about this cucumber tomato salad is how straightforward the preparation is. Even if you’re just starting out in the kitchen or you’re short on time, you can whip this up without any stress. Each step is easy to follow and doesn’t require special tools or advanced techniques. Let’s walk through the entire process together so you can create this refreshing, flavor-packed salad with confidence.
Step 1: Wash and Prep Your Ingredients
Before you start slicing and chopping, begin by washing all your produce thoroughly. This includes the cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and parsley. Use cold water and a clean cloth or paper towel to pat them dry. Clean ingredients are the foundation of any great salad, and since we’re not cooking anything, this step is especially important.
Once everything is clean and dry, set up your cutting board and grab a sharp knife. It’s time to prep.
Step 2: Slice the Cucumber
Using an English cucumber here means you don’t need to peel it, thanks to its thin, tender skin. Slice the cucumber lengthwise down the middle, then again into quarters. Now, slice across to create quartered pieces—bite-sized and perfect for scooping with a fork. This cut helps the dressing coat each piece evenly and ensures every bite delivers crunch and freshness.
If you’re using regular cucumbers, consider peeling them first, especially if the skin is thick or bitter. Also, you may want to scoop out some of the seeds to prevent the salad from getting watery later.
Step 3: Halve the Grape Tomatoes
Take your washed grape tomatoes and slice each one in half. This helps release some of their natural juices, which mix beautifully with the dressing and create an almost marinated effect after chilling. If your tomatoes are particularly large, you can quarter them instead.
This step is essential to making sure the tomatoes hold their shape but still soak in flavor. Their natural sweetness also balances out the sharpness of the red onion and vinegar in the dressing.
Step 4: Thinly Slice the Red Onion
Use a very sharp knife or a mandolin slicer to create paper-thin slices of red onion. The thinner you slice them, the more subtle their bite becomes. If you’re sensitive to raw onion flavor, here’s a helpful tip: soak the slices in cold water for 5–10 minutes before adding them to the salad. This mellows out their sharpness and leaves you with a slightly sweeter, more palatable flavor.
Red onions bring both crunch and a sharp edge to the salad, balancing the mellow flavor of cucumbers and the sweetness of tomatoes.
Step 5: Chop the Parsley
Chop the parsley finely. You want enough to distribute evenly throughout the salad, without overpowering it. If you’re using curly parsley, take a little extra time to chop it well, since it can be a bit tougher than flat-leaf parsley.
Fresh parsley adds brightness and freshness, enhancing the salad’s flavor with a clean, herby finish. It’s not just a garnish—it plays a real role in the flavor profile.
Step 6: Make the Dressing
Now it’s time to prepare the simple but oh-so-important dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, sugar, and dried basil. Add a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste. Keep whisking until the sugar is dissolved and the oil and vinegar are well combined.
This dressing has a beautiful balance—tangy from the vinegar, slightly sweet from the sugar, rich from the olive oil, and earthy from the basil. It’s light yet flavorful and perfectly suited to fresh vegetables.
For a little extra depth, you can add a small clove of grated garlic or a squeeze of lemon juice. If you prefer a touch of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes works beautifully here too.
Step 7: Combine the Salad
Place the chopped cucumber, halved tomatoes, sliced onion, and chopped parsley in a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over the top, using a rubber spatula or large spoon to scrape every last drop from the bowl. Then, gently toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated.
Take your time with this step. You don’t want to mash the tomatoes or bruise the cucumbers, so toss gently but thoroughly. The dressing should lightly coat each piece, infusing the salad with flavor without making it soggy.
At this point, take a quick taste. Adjust the seasoning if needed by adding a bit more salt, pepper, or even a splash more vinegar if you like things extra tangy.
Step 8: Chill for Best Flavor
This step is technically optional—but highly recommended. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container and place it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This allows the vegetables to soak up the dressing, and it also helps the flavors to meld and mellow together.
During this time, the salad takes on more of a marinated feel, and you’ll notice that the cucumbers become slightly more tender, the tomatoes release a bit of juice, and the onions lose some of their sharp edge. It’s a beautiful transformation and absolutely worth the wait.
If you’re in a hurry, you can serve it immediately. It will still be delicious, just a little fresher and crunchier.
Step 9: Stir and Serve
When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing and juices that may have settled at the bottom. Serve chilled, either in individual bowls or family-style in a large serving dish.
This salad is at its best when cool, crisp, and fresh. You can garnish it with a little extra parsley or even a few crumbles of feta cheese if you’d like to dress it up a bit more.
And that’s it—your fresh cucumber tomato salad is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve this Cucumber Tomato Salad
This cucumber tomato salad is as versatile in how it can be served as it is easy to make. Whether you’re serving it as a quick lunch, a side dish for dinner, or bringing it to a picnic or potluck, it fits seamlessly into nearly any meal.
One of the most classic ways to serve this salad is as a side dish to grilled or roasted meat. Its fresh acidity and crisp texture make it a perfect complement to richer, heavier mains. Think grilled chicken, lamb kebabs, beef kofta, or even roasted fish. The salad cuts through the richness and adds a light, refreshing contrast to every bite.
It’s also fantastic next to vegetarian mains like falafel, lentil patties, or even a warm bowl of quinoa or couscous. The bright flavors from the dressing soak into the grains beautifully if they’re served together.
Here are some great serving suggestions:
Serve it as part of a mezze platter, alongside hummus, pita, olives, and baba ganoush for a light, Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Spoon it over warm rice or grain bowls with grilled meat or tofu for a quick, satisfying lunch.
Use it as a topping for sandwiches, wraps, or pita pockets—it adds crunch and freshness to just about anything.
Pair it with a bowl of soup or a sandwich to round out a lunch plate.
Add a scoop of the salad on top of cooked chickpeas or white beans for a hearty, plant-based bowl.
This salad also shines as a stand-alone dish. If you want a light lunch or snack, just add a protein like grilled chicken, canned tuna, or a boiled egg, and you’ve got a simple, nutritious, and satisfying meal.
The crisp vegetables and zesty dressing make this dish the kind that disappears quickly at gatherings, so don’t be surprised if it vanishes within minutes when served to guests.
Pairing Suggestions
When it comes to pairing this fresh cucumber tomato salad, the options are endless. Thanks to its light and vibrant profile, it acts as a perfect balance to heartier dishes or can be paired with other fresh components to create a fully cohesive, refreshing meal. The key here is to complement the tangy, crisp notes of the salad without overpowering its natural simplicity.
For main courses, grilled proteins are an absolute go-to. Think grilled chicken skewers marinated in lemon and herbs, juicy turkey burgers, or even herb-roasted salmon. The cool crunch of the cucumbers and the acidity of the red wine vinegar cut through richer, savory flavors, making each bite more balanced and satisfying. Roasted or grilled halal beef kebabs also pair beautifully, especially when you add a soft flatbread or warm rice pilaf on the side.
Vegetarian dishes also find an excellent companion in this salad. Try pairing it with a serving of mujadara (lentils and rice with caramelized onions) or a simple bowl of herbed couscous. The salad’s freshness lightens the meal and adds a layer of texture and brightness.
Here are some more pairing ideas:
Serve it with:
- Grilled chicken shawarma with garlic sauce
- Spiced turkey meatballs with rice or bulgur
- Roasted vegetable and chickpea bowls
- Falafel wraps with tahini
- Halal beef or lamb kofta with flatbread
For a lighter meal, it pairs wonderfully with other salads like tabbouleh, fattoush, or a chickpea salad. Together, they can create a vibrant salad spread full of different textures and flavors. You can also include it in a mezze board with items like hummus, stuffed grape leaves, olives, and pita triangles.
For beverages, think simple and refreshing. A chilled glass of cucumber-mint lemonade or a lightly sweetened iced tea complements this salad perfectly. Sparkling water with lemon or lime adds a crisp finish to your meal without any heaviness.
And of course, if you’re serving this salad as part of a family meal or during a gathering, be sure to make a larger batch. It tends to disappear quickly—especially when served alongside savory, spiced dishes.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions
One of the many perks of this cucumber tomato salad is how well it holds up in the fridge, making it a fantastic option for meal prepping or preparing ahead for a party. Since it doesn’t include dairy or delicate greens, it keeps its texture and flavor for several days, which is ideal if you love to have something fresh and healthy on hand.
Storing Leftovers
After serving, any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because the salad contains vinegar and salt, the vegetables will continue to release a bit of liquid over time. This is completely normal. In fact, many people find that the flavor gets even better a day or two after preparation, as everything marinates together.
Store the salad in the fridge for up to 3 days. While it’s still safe to eat beyond that, the cucumbers may start to lose their crispness and the tomatoes could become too soft.
What to Do About Excess Liquid
If you notice that the salad has released a lot of liquid by the next day, simply give it a quick stir before serving. You can also use a slotted spoon to transfer it to a plate if you prefer a less juicy presentation. Alternatively, drain off a little of the excess liquid and add a splash of fresh olive oil or vinegar to reinvigorate the flavors.
Freezing—Not Recommended
This salad is not suitable for freezing. Cucumbers and tomatoes have high water content, and freezing them changes their texture dramatically. Once thawed, they become mushy and watery, which compromises the crisp, fresh nature of the salad. If you’re planning meals in advance and want to include this salad, it’s best to make it fresh or store it in the fridge for short-term use.
Reheating—Not Applicable
Because this is a chilled salad with raw vegetables, there’s no need for reheating. It’s meant to be served cold or at room temperature. If it’s been in the fridge for a while, let it sit out for 10 to 15 minutes before serving so the flavors can open up and the dressing becomes more aromatic.
Make-Ahead Tips
If you’re prepping this salad in advance for a gathering or for the week ahead, consider mixing the dressing separately and storing it in a small container. Chop the veggies and keep them in another container. Combine them 1 to 2 hours before serving for the best texture and flavor. This also helps prevent the vegetables from getting overly soft.
In short, this salad stores beautifully in the fridge, doesn’t require any reheating, and can be prepped ahead to fit into even the busiest of schedules.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even a simple salad like this cucumber tomato version can go sideways if a few small but important steps are overlooked. To ensure that your salad turns out delicious every single time, here are some common mistakes to watch out for—and how to avoid them.
Using Overripe or Bland Vegetables
The heart of this salad is in its fresh produce, so make sure your cucumbers are firm and your tomatoes are sweet and ripe. Overripe tomatoes can become mushy, and underripe ones will lack flavor. If your tomatoes aren’t very sweet, you might want to use cherry tomatoes instead of grape, or add a tiny bit more sugar to balance the acidity.
Skipping the Chill Time
It’s tempting to serve the salad right away, especially when you’re short on time. But allowing it to chill for at least an hour makes a big difference in flavor. The ingredients need that time to absorb the dressing and meld together. Without chilling, the salad might taste a little disjointed and overly sharp.
Forgetting to Season Properly
This recipe includes a basic salt and pepper guideline, but seasoning is always a personal thing. Once your salad is dressed and tossed, taste it. Does it need more salt? A touch more vinegar? Adjust it to suit your preferences. Undersalted vegetables can taste flat, while overseasoning can overpower the natural flavors.
Not Slicing Ingredients Evenly
Uniform slices are more than just about looks—they ensure that every bite includes a balanced mix of textures and flavors. If some cucumber pieces are thick and others thin, the salad won’t feel as cohesive. Take your time during prep to keep everything evenly chopped.
Adding Dressing Too Early Without Serving Soon
If you’re not planning to serve the salad for several hours or until the next day, consider keeping the dressing separate and mixing it in closer to serving time. While the salad holds up well, the cucumbers can get slightly soft if dressed for too long. Mixing just before serving helps retain that satisfying crunch.
Avoiding these small pitfalls will help you create a salad that’s consistently crisp, flavorful, and perfectly balanced.
Pro Tips
Even the simplest recipes can benefit from a few expert tricks to elevate them from good to absolutely unforgettable. This cucumber tomato salad is no exception. Whether you’re making it for the first time or the fiftieth, these pro tips will help you get the best results every single time.
1. Use English Cucumbers for the Best Crunch
English cucumbers are longer, thinner, and have fewer seeds than traditional slicing cucumbers. Their skin is more delicate and doesn’t require peeling, which not only saves time but also keeps that refreshing crunch intact. If you only have regular cucumbers on hand, peel them and remove the seeds for a similar texture.
2. Slice the Onion Thin—Really Thin
Red onions are sharp when raw, and if the slices are too thick, they can overpower the rest of the salad. Use a sharp chef’s knife or mandolin slicer to get paper-thin slices that add a subtle bite without overwhelming the dish. For extra-mild onions, soak them in cold water for 5–10 minutes before using.
3. Make the Dressing in a Jar
To save time and ensure a well-emulsified dressing, add all your dressing ingredients to a small mason jar or any container with a tight-fitting lid. Then just shake it up. It’s faster and cleaner than whisking, and you can store any leftover dressing easily.
4. Chill the Salad Before Serving
While it’s tempting to dive in right after mixing, chilling the salad for at least an hour improves both the taste and texture. The veggies absorb the dressing and soften slightly, and the flavors meld into a more cohesive dish. It’s especially worth doing if you’re making the salad for a gathering.
5. Add the Dressing Slowly
You don’t have to pour all the dressing in at once. Start with about two-thirds of it, toss the salad, and then decide if you want to add more. This lets you control the flavor and ensures the salad isn’t overly saturated.
6. Use Fresh Herbs Liberally
Fresh parsley brings so much life to this salad. Don’t be shy with it. And if you want to change things up, try using fresh dill or mint instead for a totally different twist that still fits beautifully with the flavor profile.
7. Upgrade with Optional Add-Ins
This salad is amazing as-is, but it’s also a great base for adding extras. Crumbled feta, diced avocado, cooked chickpeas, or even a scoop of quinoa can turn it into a full meal. Just be mindful of the added ingredients’ moisture content to avoid watering down the salad.
These tips may seem small, but together, they make a big difference. With just a little extra attention to detail, you’ll be turning out cucumber tomato salads that your friends and family will ask for again and again.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, absolutely. In fact, this salad tastes even better when made an hour or two ahead of serving. This gives the dressing time to marinate the vegetables and allows the flavors to develop. If you’re making it more than a day ahead, consider storing the dressing separately and mixing it just before serving to preserve the crunch of the cucumbers.
How long does this salad last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, this salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. After that, the cucumbers might start to lose their crispness and the tomatoes could become overly soft. Always give it a quick toss and taste before serving leftovers.
Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of grape tomatoes?
Definitely. Cherry tomatoes are slightly juicier and sweeter than grape tomatoes but work perfectly in this salad. Just be sure to halve or quarter them depending on their size, so they match the other ingredients in bite-size pieces.
What can I use instead of red wine vinegar?
If you don’t have red wine vinegar on hand, apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar, or even fresh lemon juice are all great alternatives. Each will bring a slightly different flavor profile, but the salad will still be delicious.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe contains no gluten ingredients and is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe choice for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Can I add protein to make this salad a full meal?
Absolutely. This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, boiled eggs, tuna, or chickpeas for a protein boost. Adding a protein makes it a satisfying lunch or light dinner.
Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?
While you can use dried parsley in a pinch, the flavor and texture of fresh parsley are far superior in a salad like this. If you do use dried parsley, reduce the amount to about 2 teaspoons, since dried herbs are more concentrated.
What if my cucumbers are watery?
If you’re concerned about excess moisture, you can sprinkle the cucumber slices with a little salt and let them sit for 10 minutes. Then pat them dry before adding them to the salad. This helps reduce water content and keeps the salad from becoming soggy.
Can I use a different herb besides parsley?
Yes, feel free to experiment with other herbs. Fresh dill, mint, or cilantro can each add a unique twist to the salad. Just be sure to use them in moderation, as some herbs can be more potent than parsley.
Is this salad suitable for a halal diet?
Yes, this recipe contains only halal-friendly ingredients and does not use alcohol, pork, or non-halal animal products. It’s a wholesome, family-friendly option that fits within halal dietary guidelines.
Conclusion & Call to Action
There’s something undeniably wonderful about a recipe that brings freshness, flavor, and simplicity together in one bowl. This cucumber tomato salad with red onion and parsley proves that you don’t need complicated techniques or expensive ingredients to create something that tastes amazing and makes you feel good. With its crisp textures, bold yet balanced dressing, and refreshing herbs, it’s the kind of dish that belongs on your weekly rotation.
Whether you’re making this salad as a quick lunch, a healthy side for dinner, or a dish to share at a picnic or potluck, you can count on it to deliver. It’s approachable, customizable, and crowd-pleasing. And because it’s naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, and halal-friendly, it’s perfect for a wide variety of diets.
Remember, the magic of this salad lies in its simplicity—but also in the small details. Use the freshest vegetables you can find, taste and adjust the dressing to suit your palate, and give it a little time in the fridge to let everything come together. Those little steps are what take this from a basic salad to something you’ll crave again and again.
Now it’s your turn to bring this delicious salad to life in your own kitchen. Try it out, tweak it to your liking, and make it your own. And if you do, I’d love to hear how it went! Leave a comment, share your thoughts, or even tag me in your photos on social media—I’m always excited to see your kitchen creations.
Happy chopping, tossing, and enjoying. Here’s to fresh, simple food that brings joy to every table.
PrintCucumber Tomato Salad with Red Onion and Parsley
- Total Time: 15 minutes + chilling (optional)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A quick, refreshing cucumber tomato salad tossed with thinly sliced red onion, fresh parsley, and a tangy homemade olive oil and red wine vinegar dressing. Perfect for warm days, picnics, and light meals.
Ingredients
-
1 English cucumber, sliced and quartered
-
2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
-
½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
-
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing: -
¼ cup olive oil
-
3 tbsp red wine vinegar
-
1 tbsp granulated sugar
-
1 tsp dried basil
-
Salt and black pepper, to taste.
Instructions
-
Wash and prep all vegetables.
-
Slice cucumber into quarters, halve tomatoes, thinly slice red onion, and chop parsley.
-
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, sugar, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
-
Toss vegetables in a large bowl and drizzle with dressing. Mix until evenly coated.
-
Chill for 1–2 hours to enhance flavors. Stir before serving
Notes
-
For extra crunch, don’t slice cucumbers too thin.
-
Soak onion slices in cold water to reduce sharpness.
-
Add feta or chickpeas for a heartier version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired