Refreshing Cucumber & Tomato Medley

Name: Refreshing Cucumber & Tomato Medley
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large cucumbers, diced; 3 medium tomatoes, diced; 1/4 red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Wholesome & Clean Eating

I love making this Refreshing Cucumber & Tomato Medley, especially during the warmer months when fresh produce is abundant. The crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes come together in a simple yet satisfying dish that bursts with flavor. I often serve it as a side salad at barbecues or picnics, and it never fails to impress. Just a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of herbs is all it needs to elevate these garden-fresh ingredients. It's a quick and easy recipe that celebrates the beauty of summer vegetables.

Created by

Leo

Last updated on 2026-02-12T09:50:19.460Z

When preparing the Refreshing Cucumber & Tomato Medley, I discovered that letting the ingredients sit together for a few minutes helps the flavors meld beautifully. This marinating step allows the natural juices to combine, resulting in a refreshing salad that's even better after a short chill in the fridge. I often add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice just before serving for an extra zing.

One of my favorite tips is to use fresh herbs, like basil or parsley. They not only enhance the flavor but also add a pop of color to the dish. The beauty of this medley is its versatility; you can adjust it to your taste or even add other ingredients like feta cheese or olives for a Mediterranean twist.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crisp and refreshing combination of flavors
Quick and easy preparation with minimal ingredients
Perfect for summer gatherings and picnics

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using the freshest cucumbers and tomatoes is essential for the best flavor in this medley. Look for cucumbers that are firm with a vibrant color and minimal blemishes. If possible, choose vine-ripened tomatoes for their rich taste and juicy texture. Avoid overripe or mealy tomatoes, as they can detract from the freshness of the dish. I even enjoy picking these vegetables directly from my garden when in season, as it truly enhances the flavor profile.

For the parsley, fresh is always preferable compared to dried. It adds not just color, but also a burst of herbal brightness that complements the vegetables. When chopping, aim for a fine consistency, which allows its flavor to mix seamlessly throughout the salad. This attention to freshness elevates the entire recipe, making each bite a vibrant celebration of summer.

Preparation Tips for Optimal Texture

To maintain a crisp texture in your salad, avoid dicing the cucumbers too early. If prepared too far in advance, they can release excess moisture, turning your salad soggy. I recommend preparing the cucumbers right before you mix the ingredients to keep that crunch intact. A quick tip: if you slice the cucumbers and sprinkle a little salt on them, let them sit for a few minutes. This will draw out some water, allowing you to pat them dry before combining them with the other ingredients.

When it comes to the tomatoes, cutting them into uniform pieces ensures even distribution of flavors and a consistent bite. After dicing, place them in a colander for a few minutes to drain excess juice, which can water down the dressing. This simple technique will help preserve the salad's bright textures, allowing every component to stand out in this wonderfully refreshing medley.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Cucumber & Tomato Medley is incredibly versatile. I love serving it alongside grilled meats or seafood, as it provides a cooling contrast to the charred flavors. Consider adding crumbled feta or mozzarella for a creamy element. If you're looking for more protein, chickpeas are a fantastic addition that pairs well with the existing flavors while making it heartier.

For a twist, experiment with the dressing by adding herbs like dill or basil, which can give a unique herbal undertone. You could also use lemon juice in place of red wine vinegar for a bright citrus zip. This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days if kept in an airtight container, although it’s best enjoyed fresh. Just be sure to give it a quick toss before serving to redistribute the flavors.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your medley:

Ingredients

2 large cucumbers, diced
3 medium tomatoes, diced
1/4 red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix these ingredients well, ensuring they are evenly coated with the dressing.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your medley:

Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing all the vegetables thoroughly. Dice the cucumbers and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Finely chop the red onion and parsley.

Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper to create a dressing.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, toss the diced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and parsley. Pour the dressing over the salad and mix well.

Serve

Let the medley sit for a few minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving. Enjoy this refreshing side dish chilled or at room temperature.

For an extra touch, consider garnishing with additional herbs or a sprinkle of feta cheese just before serving.

Pro Tips

Experiment with different herbs and dressings to personalize this salad to your liking. Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also enhance the flavors further.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue you may encounter is a watery salad. If your cucumbers or tomatoes are particularly juicy, be sure to drain them as suggested earlier. It's crucial to mix the salad ingredients just before serving, as this minimizes moisture loss and keeps everything crisp. If you've already mixed the salad and find it watery, adding a bit more parsley can help absorb excess liquid without compromising flavor.

Another challenge could be achieving the right balance of flavors. If the dish tastes flat, it might need a pinch more salt or a drizzle of extra olive oil. On the other hand, if it’s too salty, adding more diced tomatoes or cucumbers can help dilute the saltiness while maintaining the integrity of the dish.

Make-Ahead Storage Tips

If you plan to prepare this cucumber and tomato medley in advance, consider keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This way, the freshness of the cucumbers and tomatoes is preserved, and you avoid any sogginess. Store the salad ingredients in one container and the dressing in a small jar or bowl. Just toss them together right before serving for the best texture and flavor.

When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this salad can last for about two days, though it’s always best enjoyed fresh. If you notice that the ingredients have started to soften, incorporating some fresh herbs just before serving can revitalize the dish and make it feel brand new.

Scaling the Recipe Up or Down

This is an excellent recipe to scale up for larger gatherings. For every additional four servings, simply multiply the quantity of ingredients accordingly. Just ensure your bowl is large enough to handle the extra volume. If you’re making a significantly larger batch, I suggest mixing the dressing in a separate bowl to maintain control over the potency, especially if more salt or vinegar is needed.

Conversely, if you want to make a smaller portion, consider using smaller cucumbers or even a single tomato, adjusting the other ingredients proportionately. Leftovers can be transformed into a delightful topping for grilled items or simply enjoyed as a refreshing snack. This flexibility makes it a delightful recipe to prepare according to your needs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead, but it's best to add the dressing at the last minute to keep the cucumbers crisp.

→ What other ingredients can I add?

Feel free to include bell peppers, avocado, or olives for added flavor and texture.

→ How long will leftovers keep in the fridge?

This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it's a great option for meal prep! Pack it in mason jars for a quick grab-and-go side dish.