Name: Cucumber Tomato Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 large cucumbers; 3 medium tomatoes; 1 medium red onion; 1/4 cup fresh parsley; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste

Fresh cucumber tomato salad with red onion slices and parsley in white bowl | lonerecipes.com

I first discovered this recipe during a trip to Greece, where every taverna seemed to serve their own version of this classic salad. What struck me was how something so simple could be so incredibly satisfying. The key is using the freshest vegetables you can find - ripe tomatoes that smell like summer, crisp cucumbers with their skin still firm, and a good quality olive oil that brings everything together. When I make this at home, I like to salt the cucumber slices for about 10 minutes before mixing everything together. This draws out excess water and concentrates the flavors. The red onion adds that perfect sharp bite that cuts through the richness of the olive oil. Fresh parsley is essential - it adds brightness and color that makes the whole dish come alive. Every time I make this salad, it transports me back to those sunny afternoons in Greece, sitting at a seaside taverna with the Mediterranean breeze in my hair.

Why I love this recipe

What I absolutely love about this recipe is its perfect simplicity and how it celebrates the natural flavors of fresh vegetables. There's something so satisfying about creating something delicious with just a handful of ingredients. This salad embodies everything I believe in when it comes to cooking - fresh, seasonal ingredients prepared simply to let their natural flavors shine. It's incredibly versatile too - I can serve it as a side dish, pack it for lunch, or even eat it as a light dinner on hot summer evenings. The fact that it gets better as it sits makes it perfect for meal prep or entertaining. I love how the colors look on the plate - the bright reds and greens are so visually appealing. But beyond aesthetics, it's the taste that keeps me coming back. That perfect balance of acid from the lemon juice, richness from the olive oil, and the fresh crunch of the vegetables creates a harmony of flavors that never gets old. It's healthy, delicious, and reminds me why simple food is often the best food.

What You Need From Your Kitchen

Cucumbers: Wash thoroughly and slice into thin, even rounds
Tomatoes: Cut into wedges or thick slices, removing any tough cores
Red Onion: Slice thinly to avoid overpowering the other flavors
Fresh Parsley: Chop finely for best distribution throughout the salad
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin for the best flavor and quality
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed provides the brightest, most vibrant taste

Let's Make These Together

Prep the vegetables: Start by washing all your vegetables thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers into uniform rounds, cut the tomatoes into wedges, and thinly slice the red onion. The key is getting consistent sizes so every bite has the perfect balance of flavors.
Salt and drain cucumbers: This step is crucial for preventing a watery salad. Sprinkle salt over the cucumber slices and let them sit for 10 minutes. The salt draws out excess moisture, concentrating the cucumber flavor and preventing dilution of your dressing.
Mix and dress: Combine all your prepped vegetables in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and fresh lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper. Toss gently to ensure even coating without bruising the delicate tomatoes.
Let flavors develop: Allow the salad to rest for at least 15 minutes before serving. This resting time lets the vegetables absorb the dressing and the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a more cohesive and delicious final dish.

Recipe picture — Healthy summer salad with fresh vegetables and Mediterranean flavors | lonerecipes.com

Switch Things Up

I remember the first time I made this salad for a summer barbecue. I was looking for something light and refreshing to balance out all the grilled meats, and this was absolutely perfect. What I love most is how the flavors actually get better as it sits - the vegetables absorb the olive oil and lemon juice, creating this amazing Mediterranean taste. I've started making it the night before parties because it tastes even better the next day. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of feta cheese or some fresh mint from my garden. The best part? It takes literally 15 minutes to put together, but everyone always asks for the recipe. I've shared it with so many friends and family members, and now it's become a staple at all our gatherings. It's one of those recipes that proves the best dishes are often the simplest ones.

Perfect Pairings

This cucumber tomato salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, especially lamb or chicken. It's also fantastic alongside Mediterranean dishes like hummus, pita bread, and olives. For a complete meal, serve it with grilled fish or as part of a mezze platter. It complements rich, hearty dishes perfectly by providing a fresh, acidic contrast. Try it with grilled halloumi cheese or as a side to roasted vegetables for a completely vegetarian feast.

Colorful Mediterranean style cucumber and tomato salad with herbs and olive oil | lonerecipes.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?: Yes! This salad actually improves with time. You can make it up to 24 hours in advance. The flavors develop and meld together beautifully as it sits in the refrigerator.
→ Why do I need to salt the cucumbers?: Salting the cucumbers draws out excess water, preventing your salad from becoming watery and diluting the dressing. It also concentrates the cucumber flavor.
→ Can I add other vegetables to this salad?: Absolutely! Bell peppers, radishes, or even fresh herbs like mint or dill work wonderfully. Just maintain the balance of flavors and textures.
→ How long will this salad keep in the refrigerator?: The salad will keep for up to 2 days in the refrigerator, though it's best enjoyed within 24 hours for optimal freshness and texture.
→ What type of tomatoes work best?: Use ripe, flavorful tomatoes. Cherry tomatoes, Roma tomatoes, or any variety that's in season will work well. Avoid overripe tomatoes that might make the salad mushy.

Conclusion

This cucumber tomato salad is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can create something truly delicious. It's refreshing, healthy, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Whether you're serving it as a side dish or enjoying it as a light lunch, this salad never disappoints. The combination of textures and flavors makes every bite a delight. It's a recipe you'll find yourself returning to again and again, especially during the warmer months when fresh vegetables are at their peak.