When the summer heat hits, there’s nothing quite like a cool, crisp, and refreshing salad to balance out your meals. This Tomato, Cucumber & Onion Salad is the epitome of simplicity and flavor, offering a vibrant combination of crunchy vegetables and a tangy dressing that will instantly transport you to a sun-drenched patio.
Whether you’re grilling, picnicking, or just looking for a light and healthy dish to pair with your favorite meal, this salad is your go-to. With just 5 simple ingredients and ready in 10 minutes, you can’t go wrong. Plus, with its fresh, hydrating ingredients, this salad is perfect for hot days when you want something satisfying yet light.
Let’s dive into why this salad is a must-try, along with the ingredients you’ll need to get started!
Why You’ll Love This Salad:
Ready in Minutes:
No cooking required! This salad is quick, making it perfect for busy weeknights, last-minute BBQs, or even as a snack.
Crunchy, Fresh & Hydrating:
Packed with water-rich ingredients like cucumber and tomato, this salad is refreshing and hydrating—ideal for those sweltering summer days.
Endlessly Customizable:
Want to make it even more indulgent? Add some feta cheese, olives, or avocado for extra creaminess and flavor.
Healthy & Low-Calorie:
This salad is naturally low in calories, making it a great option for anyone watching their intake. It’s packed with vitamins and antioxidants.
High RPM Potential:
Popular search terms like “easy summer salads” and “quick side dishes” drive high traffic, making this a great recipe for food bloggers looking to boost engagement and revenue.
Ingredients You’ll Need
2 medium tomatoes, diced
(Fresh, ripe tomatoes are key here for that burst of juicy flavor. Roma, beefsteak, or heirloom tomatoes work great.)
1 large cucumber, sliced
(Cucumbers add a crisp, refreshing texture. You can peel them if you prefer, or leave the skin on for added crunch and nutrients.)
½ small red onion, thinly sliced
(The slight sharpness of red onion adds a tangy bite, balancing out the sweetness of the tomatoes and cucumbers.)
2 tablespoons olive oil
(For the dressing base. A good-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavor of the salad.)
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
(For acidity and brightness. You can substitute with white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar if you prefer.)
Salt and pepper to taste
(These will help bring all the flavors together. Add a pinch of sea salt and freshly cracked pepper for the perfect balance.)
Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by dicing the tomatoes and slicing the cucumber into thin rounds. If you prefer smaller bites, you can cut the cucumber in half lengthwise before slicing.
Thinly slice the red onion, making sure the slices are as uniform as possible. If the onion is too strong for your taste, you can soak the slices in cold water for a few minutes to tone down the sharpness.
Toss the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions. Give them a gentle toss to mix the ingredients evenly.
Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste. You can also add a pinch of dried oregano or garlic powder if you want to take the flavor to the next level.
Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss everything together until the salad is well-coated.
Serve Immediately or Chill:
This salad is best served fresh, but if you have time, you can chill it for about 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. It can also be made ahead and kept in the fridge for a few hours.
Tips for the Best Tomato, Cucumber & Onion Salad
Customize the Veggies:
If you like, you can swap the red onion for green onions for a milder flavor, or add in some sweet bell peppers for extra color and crunch.
Add Cheese or Extras:
Want to make the salad heartier? Try adding crumbled feta cheese, a few sliced olives, or some avocado for creaminess. You could also sprinkle on fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an extra burst of freshness.
Chill Before Serving:
Letting the salad sit for 15-30 minutes in the fridge will give the vegetables time to marinate in the dressing, allowing the flavors to come together even more.
Make It Vegan or Dairy-Free:
This salad is naturally vegan and dairy-free, but if you add cheese, make sure it’s a plant-based option to keep it dairy-free.
Change Up the Dressing:
If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping red wine vinegar for balsamic vinegar or lemon juice for a different tangy twist.
Why This Salad is a Summer Essential
This Tomato, Cucumber & Onion Salad isn’t just a salad—it’s a celebration of everything fresh, juicy, and vibrant about summer produce. It’s light enough to enjoy as a snack, hearty enough to pair with grilled meats, and versatile enough to serve at a barbecue, picnic, or potluck.
With its fresh ingredients, easy preparation, and endless customization options, this salad is the perfect side dish for all your summer meals. Plus, it’s a great way to make use of the bounty of summer vegetables while keeping things light and healthy.
So next time you’re craving something fresh and flavorful, give this salad a try—and watch it disappear from the table in minutes!
