Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cucumber tomato salad is light, refreshing, and packed with fresh ingredients. The combination of cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions is complemented by a tangy apple cider vinegar dressing that’s perfectly balanced with a touch of sugar. It’s easy to make, customizable with optional additions like feta cheese or avocado, and it’s an excellent side dish for grilled meats or as a standalone light meal.

Ingredients

Cucumbers – Persian, English, or Waxy cucumbers
Tomatoes – Roma tomatoes (or cherry tomatoes)
Red onion – Milder and colorful for a fresh bite
Apple cider vinegar – For tanginess
Granulated sugar – Balances the acidity of the vinegar
Kosher salt and pepper – To taste
Fresh dill – For the best flavor
Feta cheese (optional) – For added creaminess
Avocado (optional) – Adds extra texture and flavor

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Place the cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions in a large bowl.
In a jar, combine water, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Shake for about 10 seconds to mix.
Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss to coat.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Drain any excess liquid, then sprinkle fresh dill on top before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour

Variations

Add crumbled feta or diced avocado for a richer flavor and texture.
For a sweeter taste, use balsamic vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar.
Try using different herbs like parsley or basil for a fresh twist.

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The longer it sits, the more the tomatoes will break down, so enjoy it within a day or two for the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I make cucumber tomato salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. However, the tomatoes may start to break down the longer it sits.

Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Yes, rice vinegar can be used as a substitute for apple cider vinegar if preferred.

Is this salad vegan-friendly?

Yes, this cucumber tomato salad is naturally vegan. Just leave out the feta and avocado if you want to keep it fully plant-based.

Can I use different types of cucumbers?

You can use any variety of cucumber that you prefer, such as English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers. The skin can be left on or peeled, depending on your preference.

How long should I chill the salad before serving?

For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving.

Can I add more vegetables to the salad?

Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, carrots, or even olives for more flavor and texture.

What can I serve this salad with?

It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken, steak, or shrimp. It also works well as a side dish for burgers and sandwiches.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Can I make this salad spicy?

If you like heat, you can add a sliced jalapeño or red pepper flakes to the salad for an extra kick.

Can I freeze this salad?

It’s not recommended to freeze cucumber tomato salad as the texture will change once thawed.

Conclusion

This Cucumber Tomato Salad is a simple, delicious, and versatile dish that will quickly become a favorite. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a barbecue, or just enjoying a light meal at home, it’s sure to impress with its fresh flavors and easy preparation.

Cucumber Tomato Salad

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This Cucumber Tomato Salad is a refreshing and healthy dish perfect for hot summer days. With a tangy apple cider vinegar dressing and optional feta or avocado, this easy-to-make salad is ideal as a side dish for grilled meats or a light meal. Quick, customizable, and packed with fresh flavors, it’s perfect for any occasion.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 4-6 servings
Category: Side Dish, Salad
Method: No-cook, Quick
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegan

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions.
In a jar, mix water, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Shake for about 10 seconds.
Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss to coat evenly.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
After chilling, drain any excess liquid and sprinkle fresh dill on top before serving.
Optional: Add feta cheese or diced avocado for a richer flavor.

Notes

You can customize this salad by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added crunch.
If you prefer a sweeter dressing, swap the apple cider vinegar with balsamic vinegar.
To make the salad spicier, consider adding sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.