Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Red Onion and Olive Oil

Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Red Onion and Olive Oil is one of the simplest yet most refreshing salads you can make. With crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, sharp red onion, and a light olive oil dressing, this dish celebrates fresh ingredients and natural flavors.

Known in many Mediterranean and Middle Eastern households, this salad has been enjoyed for generations as a nutrient-packed side dish that pairs well with almost any meal—especially grilled meat, seafood, bread, or rice. The beauty of this salad lies in its simplicity—no complicated steps, no exotic ingredients.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it:

• Takes less than 10 minutes to make.
• Offers a refreshing bite perfect for warm weather.
• Uses ingredients that are affordable, accessible, and versatile.
• Is naturally gluten-free, vegan, and low-calorie.
• Works as a foundation for countless variations.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This salad is a must-try because it is fresh, healthy, and incredibly flavorful while being effortless to prepare. It’s perfect for meal prep, gatherings, or weekday lunches.

The balance of acidity, crunch, and smooth olive oil makes it satisfying but light—a true staple recipe everyone should know.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Course: Side Dish / Salad
• Cuisine: Mediterranean / Middle Eastern
• Estimated Calories: ~120 calories per serving

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 2 medium cucumbers, sliced or diced
• 3 medium ripe tomatoes, chopped or sliced
• ½ medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional)

For the Dressing

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1–2 tablespoons red wine vinegar or lemon juice
• ¼ teaspoon salt (more to taste)
• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: ¼ teaspoon dried oregano or sumac

Cooking Directions

1. Wash vegetables and pat dry.
2. Chop cucumber, tomatoes, and slice the red onion.
3. Place everything into a mixing bowl.
4. Whisk olive oil, vinegar (or lemon juice), salt, pepper, and herbs.
5. Pour dressing over the vegetables.
6. Toss gently and serve immediately or chill for 10 minutes.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prepare Vegetables
   • Cut cucumbers into slices or bite-sized cubes.
   • Chop tomatoes.
   • Slice red onion thinly so the flavor isn’t overpowering.
2. Make the Dressing
   • Mix olive oil, red wine vinegar or lemon juice, salt, pepper, and oregano or sumac.
3. Combine Ingredients
   • Add vegetables to a bowl.
   • Pour dressing on top.
4. Toss and Adjust
   • Gently mix to coat the vegetables evenly.
   • Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or acidity.
5. Serve or Chill
   • Serve immediately or refrigerate for a short time for a more marinated taste.

How to Serve

• Serve chilled or at room temperature.
• Pair with:
  • Grilled meats or seafood
  • Hummus and pita
  • Rice dishes
  • Pasta or pizza
  • Mediterranean or Indian meals

For presentation, garnish with fresh herbs or a small drizzle of olive oil before serving.

Recipe Tips

✔ Use ripe but firm tomatoes to avoid excess juice.
✔ Slice onions very thin to avoid overpowering the salad.
✔ Let the salad rest 5–10 minutes for deeper flavor.
✔ Use high-quality olive oil for the best taste.

Variations

1. Greek Style

• Add olives and crumbled feta cheese.
• Replace parsley with oregano.

2. Middle Eastern (Arabic) Style

• Add mint, sumac, and lemon juice instead of vinegar.

3. Italian Variation

• Use balsamic vinegar and fresh basil.

4. Creamy Version

• Add 1–2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or sour cream.

5. Spicy Version

• Add sliced chili pepper or a pinch of chili flakes.

6. Protein Boost

• Add chickpeas, grilled chicken, tuna, or quinoa.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store up to 24 hours in an airtight container.
• Best Texture: Consume within 6–12 hours as tomatoes release water.
• Freezing: Not recommended—cucumbers and tomatoes become mushy after thawing.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large salad bowl
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Whisk or fork for dressing

Conclusion

Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Red Onion and Olive Oil is a timeless, refreshing, and wholesome dish perfect for any occasion. Its simplicity, versatility, and clean flavor profile make it a staple recipe worth mastering. Whether you’re preparing a light lunch or complementing a full dinner, this salad adds freshness and balance to the table. Once you try it, it may become one of your favorite go-to salads.