Cucumber and Tomato Salad
There are some recipes I make so often that I barely need to think about them, and this Cucumber and Tomato Salad is one of those favorites. I first started making it on warm weekends when I wanted something fresh to serve alongside grilled chicken or fish. A friend actually recommended adding a little red onion and fresh herbs, and that simple suggestion made the salad even better.
Last weekend, I made a big bowl for my family. The crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, creamy feta, fresh herbs, and tangy lemon dressing were exactly what we needed on a warm afternoon. Everyone loved how refreshing it was, and somehow the entire bowl disappeared before dinner was over.
I especially love making this salad when I’m busy because it takes just a few minutes to put together. It’s also one of those recipes I can make when I’m stressed and don’t feel like cooking something complicated.
If you love fresh Mediterranean flavors, this simple salad is definitely one to keep in your regular rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
Fresh and refreshing
Ready in about 10 minutes
Naturally gluten-free
No cooking required
Mediterranean-inspired
Great for summer meals
Easy to customize
Ingredients
2 large cucumbers, diced
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
½ small red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
¼ cup Kalamata olives, pitted
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
Lemon Herb Dressing
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 garlic clove, finely minced
½ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Wash the cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly.
Dice the cucumbers and halve the tomatoes.
Thinly slice the red onion.
Add everything to a large serving bowl.
Step 2: Add the Mediterranean Ingredients
Add the Kalamata olives, feta cheese, parsley, and fresh dill.
Gently toss everything together.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
Taste and adjust the lemon, salt, or pepper as desired.
Step 4: Toss the Salad
Pour the dressing over the vegetables.
Gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for about 15–20 minutes before serving.
Give it one gentle toss before bringing it to the table.
Tips for the Best Cucumber Tomato Salad
Use ripe, flavorful tomatoes for the best taste.
English or Persian cucumbers are excellent because they’re crisp and have fewer seeds.
If your cucumbers are particularly watery, lightly salt them and let them sit for 10 minutes before draining.
Add the feta just before serving if you want it to remain extra creamy.
Fresh lemon juice makes the dressing much brighter than bottled juice.
Don’t overdress the salad—the vegetables should still taste fresh.
Mediterranean Variations
Try adding:
Avocado
Chickpeas
Roasted red peppers
Artichoke hearts
Fresh basil
Green olives
A sprinkle of za’atar
Grilled chicken or shrimp
For a more substantial lunch, add grilled chicken and serve the salad over a small portion of quinoa.
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs beautifully with:
Grilled chicken
Baked cod
Grilled salmon
Air fryer chicken breast
Shrimp skewers
Roasted vegetables
Crispy herb potatoes
Hummus and whole-grain pita
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Because cucumbers and tomatoes release water as they sit, the salad is best enjoyed fresh.
For meal prep, keep the dressing separate and toss it with the vegetables just before serving.
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
None
Total Time
10 minutes
Servings
4 servings
Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)
Calories: 175
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Fat: 14g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 390mg
Nutrition is approximate and will vary depending on the amount of feta, olives, and dressing used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but for the freshest texture, prepare the vegetables ahead and add the dressing shortly before serving.
Can I make this salad without feta?
Absolutely. You can leave it out or replace it with avocado, chickpeas, or another cheese you enjoy.
What type of cucumber is best?
English or Persian cucumbers are excellent because they’re crisp and generally less watery. Regular cucumbers work too.
Can I add protein?
Definitely. Grilled chicken, shrimp, tuna, salmon, or chickpeas can turn this simple side salad into a satisfying meal.
Is this cucumber and tomato salad low-carb?
It’s relatively low in carbohydrates compared with grain-based salads. If you’re following a specific carbohydrate target, pay attention to portions and the amount of feta or other additions.
How can I make it more Mediterranean?
Add Kalamata olives, feta, fresh oregano, extra virgin olive oil, lemon, and fresh herbs. A little chickpea or grilled chicken can also make it a more complete Mediterranean-style meal.