Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad

When you’re looking for a refreshing, crisp, and delicious salad that’s perfect for any meal, this Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad has got your back. It’s light, vibrant, and packed with flavor—think crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a little tangy onion all tossed in a simple, zesty dressing. It’s the kind of salad that’s so easy to make, you’ll find yourself tossing it together on the regular. Whether you’re pairing it with grilled meats, enjoying it as a side, or just craving something fresh on a warm day, this salad is the perfect solution.

Why You’ll Love Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad

This isn’t just your average salad. Here’s why it’s so special:

Super Simple: With just a few basic ingredients, you can create something fresh, flavorful, and satisfying in no time. No fuss, just goodness!

Refreshingly Light: It’s the perfect balance of crunchy, juicy, and tangy, with just the right amount of zing to wake up your taste buds without being overpowering.

Versatile: This salad pairs wonderfully with almost anything! Serve it alongside grilled meats, seafood, or as a side dish for your favorite sandwiches.

Healthy & Fresh: Packed with vitamins and nutrients, this salad is a light, refreshing way to enjoy veggies. Plus, it’s naturally low-calorie and full of goodness.

Quick & Easy: It only takes a few minutes to chop everything and whisk together the dressing. Perfect for busy days or when you need a last-minute side.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need for this simple, flavorful salad:

Cucumbers

The cool, crisp crunch of cucumbers forms the base of this salad. Choose fresh, firm cucumbers with the skin still on for the best texture.

Tomatoes

Plump, juicy tomatoes add sweetness and color to the mix. Any variety will do, but cherry or grape tomatoes are especially sweet and pop with flavor.

Red Onion

The onion adds just the right amount of bite. Red onions are milder and sweeter than yellow onions, making them perfect for salads.

Olive Oil

The rich, smooth texture of olive oil helps create the perfect dressing base. It also brings out the freshness of the vegetables.

Vinegar

A little vinegar (apple cider or red wine) adds a tangy kick to balance the sweetness of the veggies.

Salt and Pepper

Simple but essential—season to taste with salt and pepper to bring everything together.

Fresh Herbs (optional)

A sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or dill, can elevate the flavors and add a little extra pop of freshness.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Making this salad is as simple as can be. Here’s how:

Prepare the Vegetables

Start by slicing your cucumbers into thin rounds, cutting your tomatoes into wedges or halves, and thinly slicing the red onion. If the onion is too strong for your taste, you can soak it in cold water for a few minutes to mellow out the flavor.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can also add a little sugar if you prefer a touch of sweetness.

Toss and Serve

In a large bowl, combine the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions. Pour the dressing over the top and toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated.

Garnish (Optional)

If you like, sprinkle fresh parsley or dill over the salad for an extra burst of flavor. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 150

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

How to Serve Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad

This fresh, vibrant salad pairs perfectly with just about anything! Here are a few serving suggestions to enjoy it at its best:

Grilled Meat: This salad is a fantastic side to grilled chicken, steak, or fish. The cool, crisp veggies offer a refreshing contrast to the warm, smoky flavors of grilled meats.

Sandwiches or Wraps: Serve it alongside a hearty sandwich or wrap to balance out the richness. A classic BLT or a veggie wrap would be a perfect match.

BBQ or Picnic: If you’re hosting a BBQ or enjoying a picnic, this salad is a crowd-pleaser. Its fresh flavors and vibrant colors will brighten up the spread.

Rice or Quinoa: Pair it with a side of rice or quinoa to make a simple, light meal. Add some feta or grilled chicken for extra protein.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to get the most out of this salad:

Use Fresh Veggies: For the best flavor and texture, make sure your cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions are fresh and firm. They’ll make all the difference.

Make It Ahead: You can prep the veggies and dressing ahead of time, but wait to toss them together until right before serving to keep everything crisp.

Add Cheese: Crumbled feta or goat cheese adds a creamy, salty element that complements the veggies perfectly.

Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Switch Up the Herbs: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fresh herbs. Mint, basil, or oregano would all be delicious additions to this salad.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of onion?
A1: Yes, you can use yellow or white onions, but red onions are milder and sweeter, making them ideal for fresh salads.

Q2: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A2: Yes, you can prepare the vegetables and dressing ahead of time. Just keep them separate until you’re ready to serve, so the salad stays fresh and crisp.

Q3: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. The flavors will meld together, but the veggies will start to lose their crunch.

Q4: Can I use a different type of vinegar?
A4: Absolutely! Red wine vinegar, white wine vinegar, or even lemon juice will all work as great substitutes for apple cider vinegar.

Q5: Can I add other vegetables?
A5: Definitely! You can add bell peppers, cucumbers, or even olives for extra flavor and color.

Q6: Can I add a sweetener to the dressing?
A6: Yes! A teaspoon of honey or sugar can add a touch of sweetness to balance out the acidity of the vinegar.

Q7: Is this salad good for meal prep?
A7: It’s best to make this salad fresh, but you can prep the vegetables ahead of time. Just be sure to toss it together with the dressing just before eating to keep everything crisp.

Q8: Can I add protein to this salad?
A8: Absolutely! Grilled chicken, tuna, or chickpeas are great protein options to make this salad more filling.

Q9: Can I make this salad spicy?
A9: Yes! A pinch of red pepper flakes, chopped jalapeños, or a drizzle of hot sauce will give this salad a nice spicy kick.

Q10: Can I skip the onion if I don’t like it?
A10: Yes, you can leave out the onion if you prefer. You could replace it with some finely chopped scallions for a milder taste or just add extra cucumbers and tomatoes.

Conclusion

Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad is the perfect side dish for any occasion. Its simple, fresh ingredients come together to create a light, tangy salad that’s both refreshing and flavorful. Whether you’re serving it with grilled meats, sandwiches, or just enjoying it on its own, this salad is sure to become a go-to favorite. Fresh, easy, and always delicious—what’s not to love? Enjoy!

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