Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe: Fresh, Crunchy, and Flavorful
Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe is a refreshing, vibrant side dish that brings together crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a luscious creamy dressing in perfect harmony. Bursting with freshness and subtle tanginess, this salad is ideal for warm weather, family gatherings, or simply adding a light, healthy touch to any meal. The combination of crunchy cucumbers and sweet tomatoes creates a delightful contrast in texture, while the creamy dressing adds richness without overwhelming the natural flavors of the vegetables.
This salad is versatile, simple to make, and appeals to both health-conscious eaters and comfort food lovers alike. Its colorful presentation makes it visually appealing, while the creamy yet tangy dressing elevates every bite. Whether served as a side for grilled meats, a lunch salad, or part of a picnic spread, this creamy cucumber tomato salad delivers fresh flavor and wholesome satisfaction.
Ingredients Needed
The following ingredients serve approximately 4 people. Calorie counts are estimates per serving.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Cucumbers | 2 medium, sliced | 30 kcal |
| Cherry tomatoes | 1 cup, halved | 30 kcal |
| Red onion | ¼ medium, thinly sliced | 10 kcal |
| Greek yogurt | ½ cup | 60 kcal |
| Mayonnaise | 2 tablespoons | 200 kcal |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon | 4 kcal |
| Fresh dill | 2 tablespoons, chopped | 2 kcal |
| Garlic | 1 clove, minced | 4 kcal |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste | 0 kcal |
| Olive oil (optional) | 1 teaspoon | 40 kcal |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare vegetables – Wash and slice cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons. Halve cherry tomatoes and thinly slice the red onion. Place all vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
- Make the dressing – In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped dill, and olive oil (if using). Whisk until smooth.
- Combine salad and dressing – Pour the creamy dressing over the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onion. Toss gently to coat all the vegetables evenly.
- Season to taste – Add salt and black pepper to taste. Mix again gently.
- Chill and serve – Refrigerate the salad for at least 15–20 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled for the best taste.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Make it lighter: Use only Greek yogurt or a yogurt-based dressing to reduce calories.
- Add crunch: Sprinkle in some toasted nuts, sunflower seeds, or crumbled feta for texture.
- Boost flavor: Add a pinch of paprika, cayenne, or crushed red pepper for subtle heat.
- Herb variations: Try parsley, basil, or mint instead of dill for different flavor profiles.
- Vegan version: Replace Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with plant-based yogurt and vegan mayo.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 80–100 kcal |
| Protein | 3–4 g |
| Fat | 6–8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 6–8 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | Moderate (depends on added salt) |
This creamy cucumber tomato salad is a low-calorie, nutrient-rich dish, providing hydration from cucumbers, antioxidants from tomatoes, and protein from Greek yogurt.
Serving Suggestions
Serve creamy cucumber tomato salad alongside grilled chicken, fish, or steak for a refreshing contrast. It pairs well with sandwiches, tacos, or as part of a picnic spread. Garnish with additional fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for a restaurant-quality presentation.
Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe: Fresh, Crunchy, and Flavorful
4
servings10
minutes00
minutes80-100
kcalIngredients
2 medium cucumbers, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
¼ medium red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon olive oil (optional)
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Directions
- Prepare vegetables – Wash and slice cucumbers, halve cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice red onion. Place in a large mixing bowl.
- Make the dressing – In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped dill, and olive oil until smooth.
- Combine salad and dressing – Pour dressing over vegetables and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Season to taste – Add salt and black pepper as desired. Mix gently again.
- Chill and serve – Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes for best flavor. Serve chilled.
Recipe Video
Notes
- For the best texture, slice cucumbers thinly and lightly salt them to draw out excess water before tossing with the dressing.
The salad tastes best when served chilled; refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to let flavors meld.
FAQs
1. Can I make creamy cucumber tomato salad ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the salad and dressing separately, then toss them together just before serving. The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1–2 days, but cucumbers are best when fresh.
2. Can I make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! Replace Greek yogurt with plant-based yogurt and mayonnaise with vegan mayo for a fully vegan version.
3. Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
Yes, slice medium or large tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Cherry or grape tomatoes are preferred for sweetness and color, but regular tomatoes work fine.
4. How do I keep the salad from getting watery?
Salt the cucumbers lightly and let them sit in a colander for 10–15 minutes to draw out excess water. Pat them dry with a paper towel before adding the dressing.
5. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, bell peppers, radishes, or shredded carrots work well. Just ensure they are thinly sliced to mix evenly with the dressing.
Conclusion
Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad is a versatile, quick, and flavorful side dish perfect for any occasion. Its combination of crisp vegetables, creamy dressing, and fresh herbs makes it both comforting and light. Easy to customize, nutrient-rich, and visually appealing, this salad is an excellent addition to lunches, dinners, or gatherings, bringing freshness, texture, and vibrant flavor to every plate.
