This creamy cucumber tomato salad is a refreshing mix of crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a splash of creamy dressing. With fresh herbs mixed in, it’s bursting with flavor!
Perfect as a side dish or a light snack, I love serving it at picnics. It’s so easy to whip up, you’ll want to make it every day—your taste buds will thank you! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: I prefer using English cucumbers because they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin. However, regular cucumbers work just fine as well. If you’re looking for a crunchier option, consider using Persian cucumbers.
Cherry Tomatoes: These are sweet and bite-sized, which makes them perfect for salads. If you can’t find cherry tomatoes, any other small tomatoes like grape tomatoes can be used. Don’t forget to adjust the size if you’re using larger varieties!
Red Onion: Red onion adds a nice sharpness. If you find red onion too strong, you might substitute it with green onions or shallots for a milder flavor.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Both work wonderfully, but I often choose Greek yogurt for its extra thick texture and protein boost. If you’re dairy-free, try a plant-based yogurt or sour cream alternative.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh dill adds a lovely flavor, but if you don’t have it, you can use fresh basil or cilantro instead. Both offer a fresh twist that still complements the salad.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Is Full of Flavor?
The key to a flavorful creamy cucumber tomato salad is letting it chill. Chilling allows the ingredients to get cozy with each other, enhancing the overall taste. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix your cream dressing separately to ensure it’s well combined before adding to the veggies.
- Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors blend beautifully.
- Before serving, give the salad a quick stir. You can also taste and adjust salt or lemon juice for a fresh kick.
Your salad will not only look colorful but be bursting with flavors, making it a delightful side for any meal!
How to Make Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad with Fresh Herbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Ingredients:
- 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
For the Creamy Dressing:
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
For the Fresh Herbs:
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Seasoning:
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Estimated Time Required:
This salad takes about 15 minutes for prep time and at least 30 minutes of chilling time in the refrigerator, bringing the total to about 45 minutes. The chilling allows the flavors to come together beautifully, making every bite delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Fresh Ingredients:
Start by slicing the cucumbers thinly and halving the cherry tomatoes. Aim for evenly sized slices so everything mixes well. Then, finely chop the red onion and add it to a large mixing bowl along with the cucumbers and tomatoes.
2. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, combine the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mayonnaise, lemon juice (or vinegar), minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Use a whisk to mix everything together until you have a smooth and creamy dressing. This is what makes your salad rich and flavorful!
3. Combine the Vegetables and Dressing:
Pour the creamy dressing over the cucumber, tomato, and onion mixture. Gently toss everything together with a spatula or large spoon, ensuring all the veggies are nicely coated in the dressing.
4. Add Fresh Herbs:
Next, sprinkle in the chopped dill and parsley. Give the salad another gentle stir to distribute the herbs evenly throughout the salad. The fresh herbs will add a lovely aroma and flavor to your dish!
5. Chill the Salad:
Cover the salad bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. This resting time of at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld, creating a more delicious salad.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, take the salad out of the fridge. Give it a final stir and taste for seasoning—add more salt or pepper if needed. Serve it cold and enjoy your refreshing, creamy cucumber tomato salad! Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a refreshing side dish at any meal.
FAQ about Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad with Fresh Herbs
Can I Use Low-Fat Ingredients for This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute low-fat sour cream or yogurt for a lighter version of the salad. Just keep in mind that the texture and creaminess might be slightly different, but it will still taste delicious!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad may release some liquid as it sits, so give it a good stir before serving again!
Can I Customize the Dressing?
Yes! You can adjust the dressing ingredients to fit your taste. For instance, you can add a dash of Dijon mustard or some honey for a slightly different flavor. Just remember to taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can definitely mix in other veggies! Consider adding chopped bell peppers, radishes, or even some avocado for extra creaminess. Just be sure to keep the ratios balanced so the dressing can coat everything nicely!
