Cool Summer Cucumber and Tomato Salad
Description
This Cool Summer Cucumber and Tomato Salad is light, crisp, and bursting with fresh garden flavor. It features crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a zingy vinaigrette dressing with hints of herbs and citrus. Ideal as a picnic side, a light lunch, or a Mediterranean-style starter, this salad is hydrating, low in calories, and naturally vegan.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (or 2 large tomatoes, chopped)
1 large cucumber, sliced thin or diced
¼ small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp red wine vinegar (or white balsamic)
2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
¼ tsp sea salt
⅛ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Optional add-ins: crumbled feta, avocado chunks, kalamata olives
Total Time
Prep time: 10 minutes
Chill time (optional): 15–30 minutes for flavor infusion
Total: 10–40 minutes
Instructions
Prepare the veggies:
Slice cucumber and halve or chop the tomatoes. Thinly slice the red onion if using.
Make the dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Toss together:
In a large bowl, combine cucumber, tomatoes, and onions. Pour dressing over the top. Add chopped herbs.
Mix and chill:
Toss gently to combine. Chill for 15–30 minutes (optional) to let the flavors meld
Serve:
Garnish with extra herbs or optional toppings like feta or avocado. Serve cold.
Nutritional Info (per serving, 4 servings total)
Nutrient Amount
Calories 110 kcal
Carbohydrates 8 g
Protein 1.5 g
Fat 9 g
Saturated Fat 1.2 g
Fiber 2 g
Sodium 150 mg
Vitamin C 18% DV
Vitamin A 15% DV
Hydration boost High
Values may vary based on optional ingredients used.
Questions & Answers
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! It’s actually better after sitting for 30 minutes or more in the fridge so the flavors meld. Consume within 2 days for the freshest taste.
Q: What kind of cucumbers work best?
A: Persian or English cucumbers are ideal since they’re crisp and have fewer seeds.
Q: Is it keto or low-carb friendly?
A: Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and fits keto/low-carb lifestyles if you skip sweet dressings or croutons.
Q: Can I add protein to make it a full meal?
A: Absolutely—try adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or feta for a protein punch.