Zesty Cucumber and Tomato Salad

Name: Zesty Cucumber and Tomato Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium cucumbers, diced; 3 ripe tomatoes, diced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Wholesome & Clean Eating

I love making this Zesty Cucumber and Tomato Salad during the warm months when fresh produce is at its peak. The crisp, refreshing cucumbers paired with juicy tomatoes create a vibrant dish that bursts with flavor. I usually toss in some herbs like parsley or cilantro to elevate the taste even further. This salad is perfect as a side dish for summer barbecues or a light lunch on its own. Plus, it’s super quick to prepare, making it a go-to in my kitchen for any occasion.

Created by

Leo

Last updated on 2026-02-09T16:53:27.886Z

When I first made this salad, I was surprised by how something so simple could be so delicious. The balance of the tart dressing and the sweetness of the tomatoes creates a delightful explosion of flavors. I discovered that allowing the salad to sit for a few minutes before serving lets the vegetables absorb all the zesty goodness, making it even tastier!

Over the years, I’ve learned to experiment with different herbs, and fresh dill has become a new favorite. It adds an aromatic touch that pairs wonderfully with the cucumber. I suggest serving this salad chilled for the best experience—it’s refreshing and light, perfect for hot days.

Why You'll Love This Salad
Refreshing blend of garden-fresh vegetables
Quick and easy prep time for busy days
Versatile and pairs well with any meal

Choosing the Right Ingredients

To achieve a truly zesty flavor in your salad, selecting high-quality, ripe tomatoes is essential. Look for tomatoes that are vibrant in color and slightly firm to the touch. They should give a little when pressed, indicating they’re perfectly ripe. Avoid overripe tomatoes, as they can be mushy and less flavorful, adversely affecting your salad's texture and taste.

Cucumbers are another critical ingredient. Opt for English cucumbers for their crispness and minimal seeds, which enhance the salad’s texture. If you only have regular cucumbers, peel them slightly and remove the seeds to prevent excess water in your salad. Fresh, vibrant parsley adds a bright herbaceous note that complements the tomatoes and cucumbers, but feel free to swap in cilantro for a bolder flavor.

Preparing Your Salad

When preparing the salad, it's important to dice the cucumbers and tomatoes into uniform pieces, about half an inch, to ensure even mixing and consistent bites. If you find your vegetables release too much water, especially the tomatoes, consider salting them lightly beforehand and letting them drain in a colander for about 10 minutes. This technique will help prevent a watery salad and intensify the flavors of the vegetables.

Mixing is also crucial—use a spatula to gently fold the ingredients rather than aggressively stirring. This helps to keep the cucumber and tomato pieces intact, preserving the salad's delightful crunch and texture. Letting the salad rest for a few minutes after tossing allows the flavors to meld together more completely, enhancing the overall taste experience.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

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

Mix these ingredients together in a large bowl for a delicious salad.

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and sliced red onion. Use a spatula to gently mix the vegetables together without mashing them.

Add Herbs and Dressing

Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the vegetable mix. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper before drizzling it over the salad.

Toss and Serve

Gently toss the salad to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Enjoy this refreshing salad on a warm day!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of feta cheese.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Zesty Cucumber and Tomato Salad can be prepared a few hours in advance, making it a great choice for meal prep. To keep it fresh, store your salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you’re anticipating leftovers, consider keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This will prevent the cucumbers and tomatoes from becoming too soggy, ensuring your salad remains crisp and appealing.

If you want to meal prep this salad for the week, chop the veggies and herbs but leave them uncombined. Store them in separate containers and mix them together with the dressing right before serving. This way, you can enjoy the fresh flavors without compromising on texture throughout the week.

Serving Suggestions

This salad makes a perfect side dish, but it can also stand alone as a light lunch. To turn it into a heartier meal, try adding some protein such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. Adding feta cheese or avocado can also introduce creaminess and additional flavor that pairs beautifully with the zesty elements of the salad.

For an exciting variation, consider incorporating seasonal ingredients. In the summertime, add in diced bell peppers for a sweet crunch, or throw in some radishes for a peppery bite. Each of these additions will not only bring unique flavors but also enhance the visual appeal of the dish, creating a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance, but it's best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to get creative! Bell peppers, avocados, or radishes work well and add different textures and flavors.

→ How long does this salad last in the fridge?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days in the refrigerator.

→ Can I make it vegan?

Absolutely! This salad is already vegan; just ensure your red wine vinegar is vegan-friendly.