This Mediterranean cucumber tomato salad is refreshing and quick and easy to put together! You can make this simple salad with just a handful of fresh ingredients.
If you are looking for a fresh salad which you can make in minutes – this is the perfect recipe for you!
This Mediterranean salad recipe features diced fresh cucumbers, plum or cherry tomatoes and red onion in a refreshing lemon dressing.
I love how this salad combines delightful Mediterranean flavors and the freshness of simple ingredients! The juicy tomatoes pair up beautifully with the crisp cucumber and lemon dressing. I find it a wonderful option on a hot summer day when I want to enjoy some fresh flavors but don't want to spend too long in the kitchen.
This easy recipe is a great way to add fresh and wholesome ingredients into your day. This versatile and delicious salad is great for lunch, picnics, as an appetizer, quick snack or even a light dinner.
Jump to:
Health Benefits
- This easy salad recipe is inspired by the Mediterranean diet, which is renowned for its health benefits.
- This salad contains antioxidants, vitamins, and healthy fats.
- The main ingredients, tomatoes, contain lycopene, an antioxidant known for its anti-inflammatory properties, while cucumbers provide hydration and essential nutrients.
- In addition, extra virgin olive oil is a source of healthy fats, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
Notes on Ingredients
- Cucumber: You can use regular cucumbers. English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers work well as these have a subtle flavor and add to the texture in this salad. You can use cucumber with or without skin, as desired.
- Tomatoes: this recipe uses cherry tomatoes or plum/Roma tomatoes for the sweetness. Roma tomatoes are firm and juicy and bring the best taste in this salad. You can also use grape tomatoes or regular tomatoes if you prefer. Ripe tomatoes bring a juicy sweetness to the salad.
- Red onion: for a subtly sweet and sharp taste whilst enhancing the flavor of the salad.
- Extra virgin olive oil: I prefer using extra virgin olive oil for the taste and added health benefits (including source of antioxidants).
- Lemon juice: for a refreshing taste. You can use fresh lemon juice or bottled lemon juice for this recipe. For a more citrusy taste you can substitute for fresh lime juice.
- Salt: for seasoning
- Fresh herbs: including fresh basil leaves and fresh coriander/cilantro. This brings a refreshing flavor and taste to the salad.
How to make this Salad
- Add the chopped cucumber, tomatoes and red onions into a large mixing bowl.
- Add coriander, basil, olive oil and lemon juice and combine.
- Season with salt to taste. Serve and enjoy!
SAVE this recipe! 📩
Tips and variations
- Use fresh and high-quality ingredients: look for cucumber and tomatoes which are fresh for the best results. Ensure cucumber and tomatoes are vibrant and ripe, without bruises.
- Great options for variations: you can mix and match ingredients as desired.
- Herbs and seasoning: Adding a pinch of black pepper gives a little heat. You could also use different fresh herbs and substitute cilantro/coriander with fresh parsley or fresh mint if you prefer.
- Add-ins: You can also add olives and vegan feta cheese (or regular feta cheese depending on dietary choices) to make a tasty cucumber tomato feta salad. Another option is adding red or green bell peppers.
- Alternative dressing: my personal preference is lemon juice but apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar are other options for the dressing depending on individual preferences.
How to store
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Serving tips
- You can serve this salad at room temperature or transfer into the fridge before serving for a cold salad.
- Enjoy this Mediterranean tomato cucumber salad as a side dish with Mediterranean bruschetta, garlic bread and spaghetti or ratatouille.
- This vibrant salad also goes well with sweet potato wedges and a small bowl of fresh coleslaw with air fryer eggplant pizza or homemade naan pizza.
- You can also enjoy this with other salad recipes including our mango and cucumber salad, beetroot salad (with pomegranate) or tomato zucchini salad!
Related
Enjoy more fresh and delicious recipes:
Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad (Simple Recipe)
Ingredients
- 2 cups cucumber or 1 whole cucumber (chopped)
- 1 cup plum/cherry tomatoes also known as Roma tomatoes (chopped)
- ¼ cup red onions (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoon coriander/cilantro (finely chopped)
Instructions
- Add the chopped cucumber, tomatoes and red onions into a large bowl.
- Add coriander/cilantro, basil, olive oil and lemon juice and combine. Season with salt to taste. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Use fresh and high-quality ingredients: look for cucumber and tomatoes which are fresh for the best results. Ensure cucumber and tomatoes are vibrant and ripe, without bruises.
- Herbs and seasoning: Adding a pinch of black pepper gives a little heat. You could also use different fresh herbs and substitute cilantro/coriander with fresh parsley or fresh mint if you prefer.
- Storage: store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Leave a Reply