Cucumber Tomato Onion Salad

Name: Cucumber Tomato Onion Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 English cucumber, sliced; 2 beefsteak tomatoes, diced; ½ red onion, thinly sliced; ¼ cup feta cheese crumbles; ½ tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; ½ tablespoon fresh dill, chopped; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; ½ teaspoon sugar; Salt and pepper, to taste

Author: Clara Hastings

Published: July 28, 2025

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Introduction to Cucumber Tomato Onion Salad

Hey there, fellow food lovers! When the sun is shining and your schedule is packed, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing Cucumber Tomato Onion Salad to keep your spirits high. I get it—busy days can make meal prep feel like a daunting task. But this salad is your quick solution! With crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and zesty red onions, it’s a delightful dish that caters to your palate while barely taking any time at all. Whether you’re trying to impress your loved ones or looking for a no-fuss side, this salad is both vibrant and fulfilling!

Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Tomato Onion Salad

This Cucumber Tomato Onion Salad is all about simplicity and flavor. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for those hectic days when time is slipping through your fingers. Just think: a refreshing dish ready in just 10 minutes! Plus, the combination of fresh veggies and a zesty dressing will tickle your taste buds, leaving you feeling satisfied and energized. It’s a meal that feels indulgent without the fuss!

Ingredients for Cucumber Tomato Onion Salad

This vibrant Cucumber Tomato Onion Salad is all about fresh flavors! Here’s what you’ll need:

English cucumber: Known for its mild flavor and crisp texture, it adds a refreshing crunch.
Beefsteak tomatoes: These juicy beauties are perfect for dicing. They sweeten the salad and provide color.
Red onion: Adds a zingy sharpness. Thinly slice it to keep the flavor balanced.
Feta cheese: This crumbly cheese introduces a creamy factor, giving a contrast to the crisp veggies.
Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley brightens the dish and adds a burst of color.
Fresh dill: This herb brings a lovely aromatic touch, enhancing the Mediterranean flair.
Extra virgin olive oil: A healthy fat that serves as the base for the dressing. Look for high-quality oil for the best flavor.
Apple cider vinegar: This adds a tangy kick, which perfectly complements the sweetness of the tomatoes.
Sugar: A hint of sweetness balances the acidity in the dressing.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning that enhances all the flavors in the salad.

Feeling adventurous? You can add other veggies like colorful bell peppers or crunchy carrots for extra texture. For those interested in a richer taste, consider mixing in some olives or avocado. The options are endless!

If you’re curious about exact measurements, check the bottom of the article for a printable recipe. Happy cooking!

How to Make Cucumber Tomato Onion Salad

Creating the perfect Cucumber Tomato Onion Salad is as easy as pie! This is a dish that comes together in a snap. Let’s walk through the steps so you can whip it up effortlessly.

Combine the Veggies

Start by prepping your veggies. Slice the English cucumber into thin rounds—this makes for a perfect, crunchy bite. Next, dice the beefsteak tomatoes, allowing their juicy goodness to add depth to the salad. For the red onion, thinly slice it so that its sharp flavor enhances the mix without overwhelming it.

Place all these beautiful vegetables in a large salad bowl. A gentle toss is all you need to combine them, ensuring that every cucumber and tomato gets acquainted with its zesty counterpart.

Add Fresh Herbs

Now, let’s elevate those flavors! Sprinkle in the feta cheese crumbles, fresh parsley, and fresh dill. These herbs and cheese act like a warm hug for the salad, adding texture and brightness. Dill, in particular, brings a lovely Mediterranean twist that truly sets this salad apart.

Mix everything lightly to ensure the herbs and feta spread evenly, making every bite a flavorful delight!

Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, it’s time to create the dressing. Start by adding the extra virgin olive oil and apple cider vinegar. The olive oil offers a rich base, while the vinegar delivers that tangy punch.

Next, add sugar, salt, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until they become a smooth, emulsified dressing. This step is key! A well-blended dressing ensures that every morsel of salad is deliciously coated.

Toss and Serve

Finally, it’s time to bring it all together! Drizzle your dressing over the colorful veggie mix and give everything a good toss. The goal here is to coat every piece without losing that lovely crunch.

Now, it’s ready to serve! You can enjoy the salad immediately for a refreshing taste or refrigerate it for a short while to let the flavors mingle. Either way, it’s a crowd-pleaser!

Tips for Success

Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor; they should feel firm yet slightly yielding when squeezed.
Slice cucumbers just before serving to maintain their crunch.
If possible, let the salad sit for 5-10 minutes post assembly for enhanced flavor.
Experiment with other herbs like cilantro or mint for a unique twist.
For extra zest, an additional splash of lemon juice never hurts!

Equipment Needed

Large salad bowl: Perfect for mixing everything up. A big mixing bowl will also do just fine.
Cutting board: Essential for chopping those fresh veggies. A sturdy plate works in a pinch too!
Sharp knife: A good chef’s knife makes slicing safe and easy. A paring knife can tackle smaller tasks.
Whisk: Ideal for blending your dressing smoothly. A fork can work for smaller batches.

Variations of Cucumber Tomato Onion Salad

Greek Twist: Add Kalamata olives and a sprinkle of oregano for a true Mediterranean treat.
Avocado Delight: Incorporate diced avocado for added creaminess and healthy fats.
Quinoa Boost: Mix in some cooked quinoa for a protein-packed salad that’s filling and nutritious.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a zesty, spicy version.
Vegan Option: Swap feta cheese for nutritional yeast or your favorite plant-based cheese to keep it dairy-free.

Serving Suggestions for Cucumber Tomato Onion Salad

Pair this salad with grilled chicken or fish for a colorful, balanced meal.
Serve it alongside whole grain pita bread or flatbreads for added texture.
For drinks, a chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon complements its flavors beautifully.
Presentation tip: Serve in a colorful bowl to highlight the vibrant ingredients!

FAQs about Cucumber Tomato Onion Salad

Can I make Cucumber Tomato Onion Salad in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the salad a few hours ahead of time. Just remember, the veggies are freshest right before serving. If you plan to store it, toss the salad with the dressing just before serving to keep everything crisp.

What can I use instead of feta cheese?

If feta isn’t your thing, you can substitute it with goat cheese or even leave it out for a dairy-free option. Nutritional yeast is a fantastic alternative for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

How long does the salad last in the fridge?

This Cucumber Tomato Onion Salad is best enjoyed fresh. However, it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. The longer it sits, the softer the veggies become.

Can I add more vegetables to this salad?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or even shredded carrots. Adding variety enhances flavor and texture while boosting nutrition.

Is this salad suitable for dietary restrictions?

This salad is vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by omitting the cheese. It’s also gluten-free! Just ensure any added ingredients match your dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

Making Cucumber Tomato Onion Salad has been a game changer for me, especially on days when time is short, but I crave something fresh and delicious. This recipe brings together vibrant colors and flavors, creating a dish that’s not just easy to prepare, but also brings smiles to the family table. I love knowing that I can delight my loved ones with something homemade, nourishing, and oh-so-refreshing. So whether it’s a light lunch or a side for dinner, this salad has quickly become a staple in my kitchen, reminding me that simple can be extraordinary!