Tomato Cucumber & Onion Salad
This cucumber and tomato salad is one of those simple recipes that never gets old. Fresh, crisp, and naturally refreshing, it’s the kind of dish I come back to again and again, especially during warm days when I want something light but still full of flavor.
This cucumber and tomato salad is one of those simple classics I always come back to. It comes together in minutes with crisp sliced cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and delicate red onion. Everything gets even fresher with a tangy vinaigrette that keeps it bright, clean, and full of summer flavor.
It’s the kind of tomato, cucumber, and onion salad that works beautifully as a side for easy weeknight meals or barbecue gatherings. I love serving it alongside dishes like my Chicken Shawarma Bowl, Air Fryer Chicken Caprese, or even a rich Italian Beef Bolognese—it balances those deeper flavors perfectly.
Whether you’re looking for a summer salad, a quick summer dinner salad, or just simple healthy dinner ideas, this one always fits the moment. Fresh, fast, and endlessly versatile, it’s exactly the kind of healthy salad I rely on when I want something effortless but satisfying.
Why You’ll Love this Recipe
It matches with everything – This is classic that goes with a variety of dishes,from grilled meats and fish to bowls, pasta, or simple weeknight dinners. t’s especially great when paired with dishes like a Chicken Shawarma Bowl, Air Fryer Chicken Caprese, or a hearty Italian Beef Bolognese.
Quick & easy – It comes together in just a few minutes with simple, fresh ingredients you probably already have. Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and thin slices of red onion are all you need to create something that feels fresh, light, and satisfying without any effort.
Key Ingredients
This salad keeps things beautifully simple, which is exactly why it works so well. Each ingredient brings its own freshness and texture, coming together to create a light, crisp, and perfectly balanced summer salad.
Tomatoes – I always try to use the best tomatoes that I can find. Juicy Tomatoes, like beef tomatoes, and heirloom tomatoes work perfectly for this salad.
Cucumbers – I don’t peel my cucumbers, as the skin adds extra crunch and a nice pop of color to the dish.
Red onions – Thinly sliced, they add color and loads of flavor.
Fresh parsley – Fresh parsley creates a bright flavor that makes the salad taste even more refreshing. It also brings a touch of color and freshness that balances beautifully with the juicy tomatoes and crisp cucumbers.
Dried oregano – Dried oregano pairs perfectly with the fresh vegetables in this salad. Even a small amount adds extra depth to the dish.
Light vinaigrette – A combination of red wine vinegar and olive oil keeps the salad bright, refreshing, and full of clean summer flavor without feeling heavy.
Variations & Substitutions
Cherry Tomatoes – I used Roma tomatoes but you can use cherry tomatoes as well. Be sure to cut them in half to make it easier to eat.
Persian Cucumbers vs. English Cucumber: Persian cucumbers are smaller than English cucumbers, but both are delicious in this cucumber tomato salad recipe. If you use Persian cucumbers, you’ll need more, as they are smaller.
Fresh Herbs – Instead of choosing just parsley, use a combination of your favorite fresh herbs. You can use herbs that you have on hand, like cilantro or Italian basil.
Dressing – The red wine dressing used in this cucumber tomato salad is a classic, but you can also make it with a basic lemon dressing and honey mustard dressing.
How to make Tomato Cucumber and Onion Salad
Take a look at the step-by-step photos below for a visual guide to the process. You’ll find the complete written recipe along with helpful tips in the recipe card further down the page.
Make the salad dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt and pepper. Pour in the olive oil, while still whisking, until emulsified.
Prep the salad ingredients: Cut tomatoes into chunks and slice cucumbers into bite-sized pieces. Cut the red onion into thin slices.
Combine and assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the prepared ingredients. Pour the dressing over the salad and mix until combined. Before serving, add the chopped parsley, taste the salad and add salt and black pepper.
From my Kitchen (Chef’s Tips)
Let the salad sit before serving – Allow the salad to rest for about 10–15 minutes after tossing it with the vinaigrette. This gives the vegetables time to absorb the flavors and makes the salad taste even fresher and more balanced.
Serve it chilled – For the most refreshing texture and flavor, keep the cucumbers and tomatoes chilled before preparing the salad. It makes a big difference, especially on warm summer days.
What to Serve with Tomato Cucumber and Onion Salad
This tomato cucumber and tomato salad recipe can be served at any day of the week alongside these perfectly paired mains:
Air Fryer Chicken Caprese: This succulent chicken classic tastes even better when it’s paired with the refreshing flavors of my tomato cucumber and onion salad recipe.
Marry Me Chicken: There’s no better pairing than rich, creamy chicken and the light, fresh vegetables in Cucumber Tomato Salad.
Doner Kebab Recipe: My Doner Kebab recipe pairs perfectly with this tomato cucumber salad because the fresh, crisp vegetables balance the rich, savory flavors of the seasoned meat beautifully.
Steak & Fries with Gremolata: My cucumber tomato salad is the perfect summer salad for any weeknight dinner—especially when paired with smoky, grilled steak and gremolata.
Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta: This tomato cucumber salad is a great match for my Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta because it adds a fresh and crisp element to the meal. The juicy tomatoes and tangy dressing help cut through the richness of the creamy pesto sauce, making every bite feel lighter and more balanced.
Other Summer Salad Recipes to Try
If you enjoyed this recipe, here are a few more fresh and flavorful dishes you might love as well:
- Steak Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
- Authentic German Potato Salad
- Watermelon salad with Feta
- Roasted Red Beets Salad
- Caesar Salad Recipe
Tomato Cucumber and Onion Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Make the salad dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt and pepper. Pour in the olive oil, while still whisking, until emulsified.
- Prep the salad ingredients: Cut tomatoes into chunks and slice cucumbers into bite-sized pieces. Cut the red onion into thin slices.
- Combine and assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the prepared ingredients. Pour the dressing over the salad and mix until combined. Before serving, add the chopped parsley, taste the salad and add salt and black pepper.
