Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad

Looking for a salad that’s as refreshing as it is flavorful? This Tomato Cucumber and Onion Salad might just become your new go-to. Packed with crisp cucumbers, juicy vine-ripened tomatoes, and the subtle bite of red onion, it’s a healthy summer salad that comes together in minutes—and pairs perfectly with just about everything.

Whether you’re planning a backyard BBQ, prepping for weekday lunches, or simply craving something light and hydrating, this gluten-free, plant-based recipe delivers big on taste without weighing you down. Plus, with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a splash of lemon juice, every bite feels like a little Mediterranean getaway.

Key Benefits of Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad

There’s a reason this simple salad has stood the test of time—it’s the perfect mix of flavor, freshness, and function. If you’re wondering whether this dish deserves a spot in your regular rotation, here’s why the answer is a big, juicy yes:

Fresh and Hydrating

Tomatoes and cucumbers are made up of over 90% water, making this a naturally hydrating salad—a true lifesaver during warm months or after a heavy meal. It’s like edible skincare for your body, keeping you cool and refreshed from the inside out.

Quick to Prepare, Easy to Love

With minimal chopping and zero cooking required, this is a quick side dish that fits effortlessly into busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. You’ll go from prep to plate in under 15 minutes, and it only gets better as it sits—hello, flavor marination!

Clean-Eating Approved

Loaded with plant-based ingredients, this salad is naturally low in calories, gluten-free, and vegan-friendly without sacrificing taste. It’s a brilliant way to sneak in more veggies, especially if you’re aiming for a more wholesome, nutrient-rich plate.

Versatile Across Cuisines

This isn’t just a salad—it’s a global crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it alongside Mediterranean grilled chicken, folding it into a pita with hummus, or adding it to your meal prep lineup, it fits in beautifully. The simple flavor profile complements a wide variety of main dishes, from spicy to savory.

Naturally Flavor-Packed

Thanks to vine-ripened tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and that unmistakable tang of red onion, you’re getting maximum flavor with minimal ingredients. Add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a pinch of sea salt, and you’ve unlocked a symphony of taste that dances on the palate.

In short? This isn’t just a salad—it’s a celebration of simplicity done right. And the best part? You can tweak it endlessly to suit your mood, your meal, or what you’ve got in the fridge.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk ingredients—the heart and soul of any great salad. What makes this one shine is the fresh, simple produce and a few pantry staples that come together for big, bold flavor. You probably already have most of these on hand!

Here’s what you’ll need:

Fresh Produce

• 2 cups vine-ripened tomatoes, chopped
  Go for Roma, cherry, or heirloom tomatoes for juicy texture and natural sweetness.
  
• 1 large English cucumber, thinly sliced
  These have fewer seeds and stay crunchy—perfect for salads.
  
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
  Adds a sharp, peppery contrast—soak in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow the bite.
  
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  Flat-leaf parsley adds a burst of green freshness. Mint or dill also work beautifully.
  

Dressing Essentials

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  A quality olive oil brings richness and rounds out the flavors.
  
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (or lemon juice)
  Gives the salad a tangy kick and enhances the natural brightness of the veggies.
  
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  Simple seasoning that ties everything together.
  

Optional Add-Ins (Get Creative!)

Want to mix things up or make it more filling? Here are some tasty variations:

• Crumbled feta cheese – for a creamy, salty touch
  
• Kalamata olives – to add a bold Mediterranean flair
  
• Avocado slices – for creaminess and healthy fats
  
• Chili flakes – if you like a little heat
  
• Fresh mint or dill – to change up the herbal notes
  

Pro Tip: Use a salad spinner to dry cucumbers after rinsing. Extra moisture can dilute your dressing and make the salad soggy.

How to Make Tomato Cucumber and Onion Salad

Now that your fresh ingredients are ready to roll, let’s bring it all together! This step is as simple as it gets—no fancy tools or complicated techniques, just a little slicing, mixing, and layering of flavor-packed goodness.

Here’s how to make this vibrant, Mediterranean-style salad:

Step-by-Step Prep

1. Chop and Slice with Care
   
   • Dice your vine-ripened tomatoes into bite-sized chunks.
     
   • Thinly slice the English cucumber—a mandoline works great here for uniform cuts.
     
   • Cut the red onion into very thin half-moons. To reduce sharpness, soak them in ice water for 10 minutes, then drain well.
     
2. Combine in a Mixing Bowl
   
   • In a large bowl, gently toss together the tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and fresh parsley (or other herbs of choice). This creates the flavorful base of your salad.
     
3. Whisk the Dressing
   
   • In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, a pinch of sea salt, and a few cracks of black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
     
4. Toss It All Together
   
   • Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently using salad tongs or clean hands. You want to coat everything evenly without bruising the delicate tomatoes.
     
5. Let the Flavors Mingle
   
   • If you have time, cover and chill the salad for 15–30 minutes. This gives the vegetables a chance to marinate and soak in all that tangy, herby goodness.
     

Helpful Tips:

• Don’t overdress: Start with half the dressing and add more as needed—you can always add, but you can’t take away.
  
• Serve chilled: This salad tastes best cold, especially on hot days. Use a chilled bowl for an extra-refreshing touch.
  
• Add at the last minute: If using soft add-ins like avocado or feta, mix them in just before serving to keep their texture intact.
  

With just a few fresh ingredients and a handful of minutes, you’ve got yourself a salad that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.

Pro Tips and Tasty Variations

Want to take your Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad from simple to sensational? A few thoughtful tweaks and smart prep tricks can elevate flavor, texture, and versatility—without complicating things. Whether you’re making it for the first time or already planning your next batch, these tips and variations are here to inspire!

Pro Tips for Best Results

• Use the freshest produce you can find
  This salad is all about raw flavor, so ripe tomatoes and crisp cucumbers are key. Farmer’s market finds or homegrown veggies? Even better.
  
• Cut vegetables evenly
  Uniform slices make for a prettier presentation and a more balanced bite. Think of it as giving your salad a little extra polish.
  
• Soak your onions
  Want to tame the sharpness of raw onions? A quick soak in cold water for 10–15 minutes does wonders while keeping the crunch.
  
• Let it rest before serving
  After tossing everything together, let the salad sit for 15–30 minutes (in the fridge if possible). This short marinating time enhances flavor depth without making the veggies soggy.
  
• Taste and adjust seasoning
  Tomatoes and cucumbers can vary in sweetness and acidity, so don’t be shy about fine-tuning your salt, pepper, or vinegar.
  

Flavorful Variations to Try

Mix and match based on what you have on hand or your current craving. This recipe is flexible—and that’s half the fun!

• Add a Creamy Element
  Toss in crumbled feta, goat cheese, or avocado slices for a richer, more indulgent bite.
  
• Go Mediterranean
  Mix in Kalamata olives, a pinch of oregano, and a splash of lemon juice for an authentic Greek-style salad.
  
• Make It a Meal
  Add chickpeas, quinoa, or grilled chicken to turn this salad into a filling lunch or light dinner.
  
• Spice It Up
  A dash of chili flakes or a spoonful of Dijon mustard in the dressing adds unexpected depth and a little kick.
  
• Swap the Herbs
  If parsley isn’t your favorite, try fresh mint, dill, or even basil for a new twist.
  

Whether you’re keeping it classic or experimenting with add-ins, this salad is all about simple ingredients done well.

How to Serve Your Salad

This Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad is the ultimate multitasker—it’s light, refreshing, and pairs beautifully with a wide variety of dishes. Whether you’re hosting a summer get-together or just need a quick side for dinner, this salad slides right in with ease.

Here are some delicious, creative ways to serve and enjoy it:

As a Summer Side Dish

Perfect for warm weather meals, this salad holds its own next to grilled proteins and picnic favorites. Try it with:

• Grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp
  
• Burgers or kebabs (especially lamb or veggie-based)
  
• BBQ ribs or pulled pork for a bright contrast
  
• Falafel wraps with hummus and pita
  

Mediterranean-Inspired Meals

Give your plate a Mediterranean flair by building a spread of complementary dishes:

• Serve alongside hummus, tzatziki, and stuffed grape leaves
  
• Add to a mezze platter with olives, cheeses, and flatbreads
  
• Wrap it in a pita with grilled halloumi or roasted veggies
  

Make It a Main

With just a few additions, this salad can transform into a light, nourishing main course:

• Top with chickpeas, white beans, or lentils for added protein
  
• Stir in cooked quinoa or farro for extra texture and staying power
  
• Add sliced hard-boiled eggs or a few spoonfuls of tuna for a protein punch
  

Pro Serving Tips

• Serve chilled: This salad tastes best cold—store it in the fridge until ready to serve, especially during hot weather.
  
• Use a wide, shallow bowl: Not only does it look gorgeous, but it also helps distribute the dressing more evenly.
  
• Garnish just before serving: If you’re adding herbs, cheese, or avocado, sprinkle them on last for the best visual and textural appeal.
  

Whether you’re prepping for a casual lunch or creating a vibrant dinner spread, this salad brings color, crunch, and flavor to any table.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about a recipe that’s simple, fresh, and endlessly adaptable—and this Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad checks every box. It’s the kind of dish you can throw together in minutes, yet it delivers flavor that feels thoughtful and satisfying every single time.

Whether you’re keeping things light, building a colorful side for a hearty meal, or experimenting with Mediterranean flair, this salad has you covered. It’s proof that with just a few quality ingredients and a touch of care, healthy eating can be both effortless and irresistibly delicious.

Craving more crisp, refreshing flavors? Try this reader-favorite Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad—another easy, no-cook option that brings bold flavor with minimal effort.

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