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Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad

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Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad

Description

Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad is a refreshing, colourful side dish that combines crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, sweet onions, and a rich, tangy homemade dressing. This classic salad is perfect for warm-weather meals, barbecues, picnics, potlucks, and family dinners because it’s light, creamy, and incredibly easy to prepare. Fresh vegetables are tossed in a smooth dressing made with sour cream, mayonnaise, herbs, and seasonings, creating a delicious balance of freshness and richness in every bite. The cucumbers provide a satisfying crunch while the tomatoes add natural sweetness and juiciness. Thinly sliced onions bring just the right amount of flavour without overpowering the salad. After chilling in the refrigerator, the dressing thickens and coats every vegetable beautifully, making each bite cool, creamy, and full of flavour. This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, steak, burgers, seafood, or sandwiches. It can also be enjoyed as a light lunch on its own. Since it requires no cooking, it’s an ideal recipe for busy days when you need something quick, fresh, and satisfying. Whether you’re preparing a summer gathering or looking for a simple everyday side dish, this creamy cucumber tomato salad is guaranteed to become a family favourite.

Ingredients For the Salad

  • 2 large English cucumbers, sliced into half-moons
  • 3 large ripe tomatoes, chopped
  • ½ medium red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the Creamy Dressing

  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp dried dill
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp sugar (optional)

Optional Garnish

  • Fresh dill sprigs
  • Cracked black pepper
  • Sliced green onions

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Wash the cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly under cold running water.
  2. Slice the cucumbers into thin half-moons and chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Thinly slice the red onion and finely chop the fresh dill and parsley.
  4. Place all prepared vegetables into a large mixing bowl.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, salt, black pepper, and optional sugar until smooth and creamy.
  6. Pour the dressing over the vegetables.
  7. Gently toss everything together until every piece is evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
  8. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavours to blend together.
  9. Give the salad one final gentle stir before serving.
  10. Garnish with fresh dill, sliced green onions, or cracked black pepper if desired and serve chilled.

Tips

  • English cucumbers are ideal because they have fewer seeds and thinner skin.
  • Remove excess moisture from tomatoes by lightly patting them dry before mixing.
  • Chill the salad before serving for the best flavour and texture.
  • Fresh herbs provide the brightest flavour, but dried herbs can be substituted if needed.
  • Add sliced avocado, crumbled feta cheese, or mozzarella pearls for extra richness.
  • Stir gently to keep the tomatoes from breaking apart.

Notes

  • This salad is best served the day it is prepared.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Do not freeze, as the vegetables will become watery after thawing.
  • If making ahead, prepare the vegetables and dressing separately, then combine just before serving for maximum freshness.

Q&A

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the vegetables and dressing separately, then mix them together about 30 minutes before serving.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Absolutely. Plain Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute and provides extra protein with a slightly tangier flavour.

How do I prevent the salad from becoming watery?
Lightly salt the cucumber slices and let them rest for 15–20 minutes before patting them dry. Also remove excess juice from the tomatoes before combining.

What dishes pair well with this salad?
It pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, steak, burgers, barbecue ribs, roasted fish, sandwiches, or baked potatoes.

Servings

  • Serves: 6

Nutrition (Approx. Per Serving)

  • Calories: 180
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Fibre: 2g
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 260mg

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