This Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad is a refreshing dish that combines crunchy cucumbers and juicy tomatoes, all mixed in a tasty creamy dressing. Perfect for warm days!
Every bite is like a little garden party in your mouth! I love serving this salad with grilled chicken—it’s a match made in heaven! 🌞
This salad is super simple to whip up. Just chop, mix, and chill for a bit. It’s delicious and makes you feel like a kitchen hero with minimal effort!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: I prefer to use English cucumbers for their thin skin and fewer seeds. They add a crisp bite! If they’re not available, regular cucumbers work too. Just peel them if the skin is tough.
Tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes are a must! I enjoy using vine-ripened tomatoes for their flavor. If you’re looking for a substitute, cherry or grape tomatoes can add a sweet touch.
Onion: White onions offer a mild flavor, but red onions can be a colorful alternative if you like a bit more bite. Just soak them in cold water for a few minutes to mellow the flavor.
Sour Cream/Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess. I often use Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. Non-dairy yogurt can replace it for a vegan option!
Vinegar or Lemon Juice: Both add brightness! If you’re out of apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar works well too. Fresh lemon juice is a wonderful way to keep it zesty.
How Do I Make the Perfect Dressing?
Getting the dressing right is key to this salad! It’s all about balancing flavors—sweet, tangy, and creamy.
- Mix the sour cream or Greek yogurt with mayonnaise (if using) in a bowl.
- Add your choice of vinegar or lemon juice and sugar. The sugar helps offset the acidity, making it tastier!
- Season with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust until it suits your preference. A dash more lemon can brighten it up!
Once you blend these flavors, your salad will be a refreshing hit! Taste before serving—it’s the best way to ensure it’s just right.
How to Make Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 medium cucumbers, sliced or chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 3 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 1 small white onion, thinly sliced
For the Creamy Dressing:
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, balances acidity)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prep and at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, you’re looking at a total time of about 45 minutes to enjoy this refreshing dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Vegetables:
First, wash the cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly under running water. Slice the cucumbers into rounds or half-moons and chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. For the onion, slice it thinly to add a nice crunch!
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, and sliced onions. Give them a gentle stir to mix them well.
3. Making the Creamy Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the sour cream or Greek yogurt, mayonnaise (if you’re adding it for richness), apple cider vinegar or lemon juice, and sugar. Don’t forget to season your dressing with a sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
4. Dressing the Salad:
Now, pour the creamy dressing over the vegetables in the large bowl. Be careful to coat all the veggies and not leave any behind!
5. Toss Everything Together:
Gently toss everything together until the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions are evenly covered with the dressing. You want each bite to be creamy and delicious!
6. Chill the Salad:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes so the flavors meld together, making it extra tasty!
7. Final Touch:
Before serving, give the salad one more gentle toss. Taste it to see if you need to add a little more salt or pepper for seasoning.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve your creamy cucumber tomato salad chilled as a refreshing side dish. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own!
This creamy cucumber tomato salad is the perfect blend of fresh, tangy, and cool flavors, making it a great addition to your summertime meals or a lovely side for any gathering!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like bell peppers, radishes, or even some diced avocado for a creamier texture. Just remember to adjust the dressing based on your chosen vegetables!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply replace the sour cream or Greek yogurt with a non-dairy yogurt alternative and omit the mayonnaise. Use a plant-based version or simply skip it for a lighter dressing!
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can! This salad can be made up to a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator. If you find the cucumbers release too much water, you can drain some off before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving, as the dressing may separate a little during storage.
