Tomato, Cucumber and Onion Salad Recipe – The Ultimate Summer Side Dish
When the weather warms up, nothing beats the crisp, refreshing taste of a Tomato, Cucumber and Onion Salad. This simple yet flavorful dish is the perfect companion for barbecues, picnics, or light weekday meals. With a delightful balance of tangy, sweet, and savory notes, it’s a classic that never goes out of style.
Why This Salad Belongs On Your Table
There’s something undeniably satisfying about a salad made with fresh ingredients and a vibrant, homemade vinaigrette. This salad combines the juiciness of cherry tomatoes, the crunch of cucumbers, and the sharp bite of red onions—all tied together with a tangy-sweet dressing that’s impossible to resist.
- Quick and easy to prepare – ready in under 15 minutes
- Perfect make-ahead salad – gets better as it marinates
- Naturally gluten-free and vegan
- Light, crisp, and bursting with summer flavor
Fresh Ingredients for an Unbeatable Taste
Vegetables
- 2 cucumbers, peeled and sliced
Cool, crisp, and hydrating—cucumbers form the backbone of this refreshing salad. - 1 red onion, sliced into thin rings
Adds a punch of flavor and beautiful color contrast. - ½ pint cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
Sweet, juicy, and bursting with flavor—these tiny tomatoes bring balance and color.
Dressing
- ⅓ cup white vinegar
The acid that gives the salad its bold tangy kick. - ¼ cup oil (vegetable or light olive oil)
Helps mellow out the acidity and adds smoothness. - ⅔ cup water
Dilutes the vinegar just enough for a pleasant bite. - 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
Adds a perfect touch of sweetness to balance the tartness of the vinegar. - Salt and pepper to taste
Enhances all the natural flavors of the vegetables.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Vegetables
Wash and dry all produce.
- Peel the cucumbers and slice them into thin rounds.
- Slice the red onion into thin rings.
- Cut the cherry tomatoes in half.
2. Make the Dressing
In a medium bowl or jar, whisk together:
- White vinegar
- Oil
- Water
- Sugar
- A generous pinch of salt and pepper
Whisk until the sugar is fully dissolved.
3. Combine and Chill
In a large bowl, add the sliced cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes.
Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to combine.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best flavor. The longer it sits, the more the vegetables soak up the tangy sweetness of the marinade.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This salad is incredibly versatile and goes with almost anything. Here are a few ideas to pair it with:
- Grilled chicken or fish
- Burgers and hot dogs
- BBQ ribs or pulled pork sandwiches
- Crusty bread and hummus for a light lunch
It’s also great on its own as a refreshing low-calorie snack during hot afternoons.
Tips to Elevate Your Tomato, Cucumber and Onion Salad
- Add fresh herbs like dill, basil, or parsley for a burst of aroma and flavor.
- Swap the vinegar for apple cider or red wine vinegar for a twist.
- Use English cucumbers if you prefer thinner skin and fewer seeds.
- Want some crunch? Add a handful of crushed toasted almonds or sunflower seeds before serving.
Health Benefits That Make You Feel Good
Not only is this salad delicious, it’s also full of nutrients:
- Cucumbers hydrate and contain antioxidants
- Tomatoes are rich in lycopene and vitamin C
- Red onions support heart health and digestion
- Vinegar may aid in blood sugar regulation
- Oil provides healthy fats when using olive or avocado oil
All this in a dish that’s naturally low in calories, gluten-free, and vegan!
Why You’ll Make This Salad Again and Again
This Tomato, Cucumber and Onion Salad hits all the right notes—bright, crunchy, tangy, and sweet. It’s everything you want in a summer side dish, without any hassle. With ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen, it’s a go-to recipe you’ll return to all season long.
Make it once and you’ll be hooked. It’s one of those recipes where “just one bite” turns into an empty bowl before you even realize it.