Simple Cucumber Tomato Salad with Mint (Fresh & Easy)
This simple cucumber tomato salad is one of those recipes for when you want something bright and refreshing. It adds a pop of colour, flavour and freshness to just about any meal. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make. It always surprises me how delicious 3 simple ingredients can be with just little oil and lemon.
It’s a perfect side dish, especially when cucumbers and tomatoes are piling up. I think you’ll love the simplicity of this recipe as much as I do.
More Fresh & Flavourful Salads/Toppings: Pico de Gallo (Fresh Tomato Salsa), Corn and Tomato Salad, Southwestern Bean and Pepper Salsa or Salad
Quick Summary
In this cucumber tomato salad recipe, you’ll learn:
- How to make a fresh cucumber tomato salad with mint
- What type of cucumber is best for cucumber tomato salad
- How to store cucumbers so they last longer
- Easy additions or variations based on what you have
- Simple ways to serve cucumber tomato salad with everyday meals
Best Cucumbers for Cucumber Tomato Salad
It’s the cucumbers that give this salad that fresh, crisp bite that makes you go back for another spoonful. While all cucumbers can be used, some give you better texture and flavour.
- Tender, seedless cucumbers like mini or Persian cucumbers are ideal. They’re naturally crisp and don’t have large seeds. Long English cucumbers also work well and are easy to find.
- Garden or field cucumbers tend to have thicker skins and larger seeds. For this salad, peel them and scoop out the seeds before chopping.
What to Do if Your Cucumbers are a Little Soft
If your cucumbers are a little soft and have lost their crispy crunch, re-crisp them.
Soak them in a bowl of ice water for an hour or more. They’ll firm up and bring back that fresh, crisp texture.
– Add whole, mini cucumbers to the bowl. You can pat them dry and store for 1-2 days in fridge.
– Slice long cucumbers and soak slices. These need to be used right away once out of the water.
How to Store Cucumbers (So They Stay Fresh Longer)
Storing cucumbers properly makes a big difference in how long they last. They last longer in the fridge than on the counter, but don’t like the coldest part of the fridge (they can get mushy if too chilled). They don’t like to dry out, but they also don’t like to sit in moisture – so balance is key.
Wrapped cucumbers (like English cucumbers):
- Keep the plastic wrap on while they’re whole. The wrap helps prevent moisture loss.
- Store in the fridge crisper.
- Keep away from ethylene producers like apples, tomatoes or melons.
- If your fridge is extra cold, keep cucumbers on top shelf of fridge, towards the front of the fridge.
Unwrapped cucumbers (garden or field):
- Store in the fridge crisper.
- Leave unwrapped or place in a breathable bag or loosely wrapped.
- Keep away from ethylene producers like apples, tomatoes or melons.
Once cut, wrap either type in a cotton or paper towel and place loosely in a plastic bag. Use within 1-2 days.
Make It Your Own (Easy Variations)
One of the best things about this cucumber tomato salad is how easy it is to adapt. In fact, you’ll see variations of this salad across many cuisines. In the Middle East, it’s similar to a Shirazi-style salad with cucumber, tomato, onion and herbs. In the Mediterranean, you’ll often see it with feta, olives and oregano. In India, simple salads like kachumber use cucumber, tomato, onion and lemon or lime. In Latin America, fresh salsas with cucumbers include lime, hot peppers and cilantro. In Southeast Asia, you’ll often find fresh cucumber salads with various herbs, lime and a bit of heat.
Use these variations to inspire your own version of this salad. Stat with the basic version first. Then, consider changing the herbs, acid or add-ins. Try:
- finely chopped red or white onion
- fresh minced garlic
- feta
- olives
- chickpeas or beans
- chili flakes, jalapeño or green chili for heat
- cilantro, parsley, dill or oregano
- Use lime juice, red wine vinegar or rice wine vinegar to change the dressing
How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Salad
This cucumber tomato salad works can work as a side salad or as a topping.
- Serve with pita crackers as a fresh appetizer
- Spoon over fish tacos
- Top mini pita or naan with soft feta, garlic yogurt sauce or cream cheese
- Serve alongside grilled meats or fish
- Add to couscous or quinoa bowls
- Use it to finish off a salad
It’s a simple cucumber tomato salad that fits into almost any meal.
Storage Tips for Cucumber Tomato Salad
The tomatoes will soften quite a bit, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
It will keep in the fridge for 1 or 2 days if need be.
A Note About the Liquid in Your Bowl
This salad will release liquid as it sits. That’s expected and desired. Think of it as liquid gold, just like you would in a Panzanella or bread salad.
Cucumbers and tomatoes are both high in water, and once you add salt and lemon, they naturally start to draw that moisture out. What you end up with is a light, flavourful juice at the bottom of the bowl. Use it!
First, give it a quick stir before serving so everything is coated. Use a slotted spoon to scoop out the salad.
Then scoop out the liquid and spoon over your rice, potatoes, beans, meat or bread. If you’re feeling the vibe – take your pita or naan and dip it right in there!
Recipe for Cucumber Tomato Salad with Mint
Simple Cucumber Tomato Salad with Mint
Ingredients
- 2 cups diced cucumber
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
- 2 Tbsp fresh chopped mint 2 tsp dried
- ½ tsp salt or to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper
Dressing
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 Tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- In medium serving bowl, combine cucumber, tomatoes and mint.
- Season with salt and pepper and toss gently to combine.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice and mix gently to combine.
- Let sit for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavours to blend.
- Spoon the flavourful juices from bottom of bowl over meat, potatoes, salad or grains.
- Best enjoyed fresh. But can be stored in fridge for 1-2 days (tomatoes will soften).
Notes
Keeping the cucumber and tomato the same size and in equal amounts helps the salad feel balanced and gives you the best texture in every bite. Best Cucumbers to Use
Mini, Persian or Long English cucumbers work well for their crisp texture and tender skin. If using garden or field cucumbers, peel and remove seeds first. Use the Liquid
This salad will release a flavourful liquid as it sits. Use it!
Give it a quick stir before serving to coat everything.
Scoop out the salad with a slotted spoon.
Pour the liquid over meat, grains, potatoes or sop up with your favourite bread. For variations, additions and ideas for how to serve this salad read the full article.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Cook with the seasons, effortlessly! I’m Getty, a food educator and Professional Home Economist, helping you select, store, and serve seasonal ingredients in delicious, simple, everyday meals. Sign up for seasonal tips and recipes delivered straight to your inbox, and dive deeper with my books, guides, or YouTube content.