Name: Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons vinegar (red wine, white wine, or rice wine); 2 teaspoons kosher salt; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 4 cups halved cherry tomatoes (about 1 1/2 pounds); 1 English cucumber, quartered lengthwise, thinly sliced; 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup coarsely chopped fresh herbs (such as basil, cilantro, dill, mint, and/or parsley)

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Introduction

This refreshing cucumber, tomato, and onion salad is a perfect side dish for warm weather or any meal needing a burst of fresh flavor. Easy to prepare and bursting with herbs, it combines crisp vegetables with a simple tangy dressing that enhances their natural taste.

A fresh salad is served in a white bowl, filled with three main layers: at the bottom, there are chopped pale green cucumber pieces with a smooth texture; the middle layer holds vibrant red cherry tomatoes, some whole and some sliced, showing juicy interiors; on top, thin slices of purple-red onion and bright green parsley leaves are scattered, adding contrast and freshness, all lightly coated with olive oil and sprinkled with black pepper and herbs. A metal spoon rests inside the bowl with cherry tomato halves on it, and the bowl sits on a white marbled surface with some pepper scattered around. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons vinegar (red wine, white wine, or rice wine)
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
4 cups halved cherry tomatoes (about 1 1/2 lb.)
1 English cucumber, quartered lengthwise, thinly sliced
1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup coarsely chopped fresh herbs (such as basil, cilantro, dill, mint, and/or parsley)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
Step 2: Add the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, and sliced red onion to the bowl. Toss everything together thoroughly to coat the vegetables in the dressing.
Step 3: Let the salad sit at room temperature for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, or cover and refrigerate for up to 12 hours.
Step 4: Just before serving, sprinkle the coarsely chopped fresh herbs over the salad and toss gently to distribute.

Tips & Variations

Use whichever fresh herbs you prefer or have on hand; mixing several adds complexity and freshness.
Try adding a pinch of sugar or a drizzle of honey to the dressing for a touch of sweetness.
For extra texture, toss in some toasted nuts like pine nuts or walnuts.
If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.

Storage

Store the salad covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The vegetables will release more liquid over time, so you may want to drain excess dressing before serving. For the best texture, add fresh herbs just before serving.

How to Serve

A large white bowl filled with a fresh salad featuring three main layers: the bottom layer has sliced green cucumber pieces with dark green skin and pale green inside, the middle layer is made of bright red cherry tomatoes cut in half revealing their juicy interior, and the top layer includes thinly sliced purple-red onion rings mixed with fresh green leafy herbs scattered across. A light brown wooden spoon rests inside the bowl on the right side, partially buried in the vegetables. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface with some green herb leaves scattered around the base. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cucumbers?

Yes, you can substitute English cucumber with Persian cucumber or regular slicing cucumbers. Peel them if the skin is thick or waxed for a better texture.

Is it better to serve this salad chilled or at room temperature?

This salad tastes great either way. Letting it come to room temperature allows the flavors to develop fully, but chilling it can be especially refreshing on warm days.