Zesty Pickle, Tomato, and Cucumber Salad
If you’re a fan of fresh, tangy, and crunchy salads that burst with flavor, this Pickle, Tomato, and Cucumber Salad is about to become your new obsession! This simple yet addictive recipe combines the perfect balance of briny pickles, juicy Roma tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and sweet onions, all tossed in a bold, zesty dressing made from pickle juice, lemon, and Italian dressing.
It’s refreshing, easy to make, and pairs beautifully with almost anything — from grilled meats to sandwiches or as a quick snack straight from the fridge. Once you try it, you’ll understand why everyone is talking about it!
🥒 Ingredients
- 1 cup dill pickles, sliced or chopped
- 2 Roma tomatoes, diced
- 1 cucumber, peeled and sliced thin
- ½ sweet onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup pickle juice (from the pickle jar)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (about ½ lemon, squeezed)
- 3 tablespoons Italian dressing
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Lemon pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (or 1 clove fresh garlic, minced)
🥗 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Wash and dry the tomatoes and cucumber. Slice or dice them evenly so every bite has the perfect mix of crunch and juiciness.
Thinly slice the sweet onion — its mild flavor adds just the right amount of sharpness.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the pickles, tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions. Toss them gently to mix.
Step 3: Mix the Dressing
In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the pickle juice, lemon juice, and Italian dressing.
Add salt, black pepper, lemon pepper, and garlic to taste. The pickle juice adds a punch of acidity and saltiness, so start light and adjust as needed.
Step 4: Toss and Chill
Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss everything together until well coated.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld — though it tastes even better after an hour or two.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Give it one final stir before serving. Garnish with a sprinkle of lemon pepper or fresh herbs like dill or parsley if you like.
Serve chilled as a side dish, light snack, or even as a topping for grilled chicken, burgers, or fish.
💡 Tips & Variations
- Make it spicy: Add a few sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Add crunch: Toss in some chopped celery or bell peppers.
- Go gourmet: Crumble in a bit of feta cheese or fresh mozzarella balls for a creamy twist.
- Vegan & gluten-free: Naturally fits both diets — just double-check your Italian dressing label.
🧊 Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
The flavors intensify over time, making it even more delicious the next day — perfect for meal prep or picnics.
🌟 Why You’ll Love This Salad
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 10 minutes with no cooking required.
- Full of flavor: Zesty, salty, tangy, and fresh all at once.
- Low-calorie and refreshing: A healthy snack or side dish that doesn’t weigh you down.
- Versatile: Great on its own or paired with your favorite protein.
This Pickle, Tomato, and Cucumber Salad is the definition of simple food done right — bold, refreshing, and so crave-worthy that you’ll find yourself making it on repeat. Whether you serve it at a cookout, pack it for lunch, or eat it straight from the bowl, it’s guaranteed to disappear fast.