Easy Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe Ready in 15 Minutes

Create a refreshing cucumber tomato salad in just 15 minutes with pantry staples. This no-cook recipe delivers crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a zesty dressing that enhances summer produce. Perfect for beginners, meal prep, or last-minute entertaining with only 7 ingredients and zero cooking required.

Nothing beats a simple cucumber tomato salad when you need something fresh, light, and ready in minutes. As a French-trained chef who's studied European salad traditions across three continents, I've perfected this foolproof version that balances acidity, salt, and freshness perfectly. Forget bland side dishes - this vibrant combination of crisp cucumbers and ripe tomatoes dressed in a classic vinaigrette has been a Mediterranean staple for generations, and for good reason.

Why This Easy Cucumber Tomato Salad Works Every Time

Unlike complicated recipes that require special equipment or hard-to-find ingredients, this salad celebrates summer's bounty with minimal intervention. The magic happens through three key elements:

• Natural hydration - Cucumbers contain 95% water, creating a refreshing base that doesn't wilt like lettuce
• Acid balance - A simple vinegar-based dressing enhances tomato sweetness without overpowering
• Texture contrast - Crisp cucumbers against juicy tomatoes creates satisfying mouthfeel

According to USDA nutritional data, this combination delivers significant hydration and essential vitamins while remaining low in calories. A single serving provides 20% of your daily vitamin C needs and 15% of vitamin K, making it both delicious and nutritious.

Perfect Ingredients for Maximum Flavor

Quality matters more than quantity in this minimalist recipe. Choose ingredients at their peak:

Ingredient	Best Variety	Quantity	Prep Tip
Cucumbers	English or Persian	2 medium	Skin on for nutrients and color
Tomatoes	Vine-ripened Roma	3 medium	Remove seeds if watery
Red Onion	Thinly sliced	1/4 cup	Soak in cold water for 10 minutes
Feta Cheese	Bulk block	1/2 cup	Crumble by hand for texture

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Follow these simple steps for perfect results every time:

1. Prep vegetables - Slice cucumbers into 1/4-inch rounds, dice tomatoes into 1/2-inch pieces
2. Reduce bitterness - Sprinkle cucumbers with 1/2 tsp salt and let drain in colander for 10 minutes
3. Make dressing - Whisk 3 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp red wine vinegar, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, salt and pepper
4. Combine ingredients - Toss cucumbers, tomatoes, and drained onions with dressing
5. Finish - Add feta and fresh herbs just before serving

Pro Chef Techniques for Better Results

After analyzing hundreds of traditional European preparations, I've identified these game-changing tips:

• Temperature matters - Chill bowls and serving plates for maximum refreshment
• Dressing timing - Add dressing no more than 15 minutes before serving to prevent sogginess
• Herb selection - Fresh dill enhances Mediterranean versions, while basil works better with Italian variations
• Salt strategy - Season in layers: cucumbers during prep, dressing, and final adjustment

When This Salad Shines (And When to Choose Something Else)

Understanding context boundaries helps you serve this salad at its best. Based on my research across European culinary traditions:

• Ideal for - Summer meals, light lunches, BBQ sides, Mediterranean diet plans
• Best pairing - Grilled fish, roasted chicken, or as part of mezze platters
• Avoid when - Serving very young children (choking hazard from whole seeds)
• Not suitable - Meal prep beyond 24 hours (texture degrades significantly)

Delicious Variations to Try

Customize this base recipe for different occasions:

• Mediterranean twist - Add Kalamata olives and oregano for Greek-style salad
• Provençal version - Include niçoise olives and cornichons for French flair
• Protein boost - Mix in chickpeas or white beans for a complete meal
• Spicy kick - Add thinly sliced jalapeños for heat lovers

Serving and Storage Guidelines

For optimal enjoyment:

• Serve within 30 minutes of final preparation for best texture
• Store undressed components separately if making ahead
• Keep in airtight container for up to 24 hours (dressing separately)
• Revive leftovers with fresh herbs and a splash of vinegar

Can I make cucumber tomato salad ahead of time?

For best results, prepare components separately and combine no more than 30 minutes before serving. Store cucumbers and tomatoes in separate containers with paper towels to absorb excess moisture. The dressing can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

Why does my cucumber tomato salad get watery?

Excess water comes from two sources: cucumbers naturally release liquid when salted, and tomatoes contain significant moisture. To prevent sogginess, salt cucumbers and drain for 10 minutes before use, remove tomato seeds and gel, and add dressing no more than 15 minutes before serving.

What's the best vinegar for cucumber tomato salad?

Red wine vinegar provides the ideal balance of acidity and fruitiness that complements both cucumbers and tomatoes. For Mediterranean versions, use 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar to 3 tablespoons olive oil. Balsamic works for sweeter profiles but can overpower delicate cucumber flavor.

Can I substitute ingredients in this easy salad recipe?

Absolutely! Try Persian cucumbers if English aren't available, or cherry tomatoes for convenience. Red onion can be replaced with shallots. For dairy-free, omit feta or use avocado cubes. The dressing works with lemon juice instead of vinegar. Just maintain the 3:1 oil to acid ratio for proper balance.