This creamy cucumber tomato salad is a refreshing dish that combines cool cucumbers and plump tomatoes, all dressed in a smooth, tangy sauce. It’s the perfect side for any meal!
Making this salad is a breeze—just chop, mix, and enjoy! I love serving it on hot days; it makes me feel like I’m sitting by the pool, even if I’m just in my kitchen! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Use English cucumbers for fewer seeds and a more delicate flavor. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers work great too! Just peel if the skin is waxy or thick.
Tomatoes: Cherry or grape tomatoes add sweetness and pop, but you can also use diced Roma or beefsteak tomatoes. Just be sure to drain any excess juices to prevent sogginess.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: I love using Greek yogurt for added protein and tang. If you’re dairy-free, try using cashew cream or a coconut yogurt for a similar texture.
Dill: Fresh dill brightens the salad; if you’re out, parsley, chives, or Italian seasoning can work as substitutes.
How Do I Get the Perfect Creamy Dressing?
Creating the perfect creamy dressing is all about balance. A mix of sour cream (or yogurt) and mayonnaise gives a wonderful creaminess. Follow these steps for success:
- Start with cold ingredients, as this helps keep the dressing fresh.
- Whisk the sour cream and mayonnaise first, then whisk in lemon juice (or vinegar) for acidity.
- Add garlic powder and season with salt and pepper gradually, tasting as you go to avoid overpowering flavors.
- Make sure to chill the dressing for at least 30 minutes before mixing it with veggies to let flavors develop.
How to Make Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables:
- 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice or white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill. It’s a quick and easy recipe that will be ready to enjoy in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by washing and thinly slicing the cucumbers. Next, place them in a large mixing bowl. Then, take your cherry or grape tomatoes and cut them in half before adding them to the bowl. If you’re using red onion, slice it thinly and add it into the mix, too!
2. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, combine the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) and mayonnaise. Whisk them together until smooth. Next, add in the lemon juice (or vinegar), dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Continue whisking until everything is well blended and creamy.
3. Mix the Salad:
Pour the creamy dressing over the cucumber and tomato mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together so that all the vegetables are coated evenly with the dressing. Be careful not to mash the tomatoes!
4. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, you can optionally garnish the salad with extra dill or a sprinkle of black pepper to make it look even more appetizing!
Enjoy this fresh, creamy cucumber tomato salad as a light side dish or picnic favorite! It’s refreshing and packed with flavor!
Can I Use Different Types of Tomatoes?
Absolutely! While cherry or grape tomatoes are great for their sweetness, you can use Roma or diced beefsteak tomatoes as well. Just make sure to drain any excess juices to keep the salad from getting soggy.
How Do I Make This Salad Healthier?
If you want to lighten it up, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and use a light mayonnaise or skip it altogether. Adding extra veggies like bell peppers or avocados can also boost nutrition without sacrificing flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the cucumbers may become a bit softer over time, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just dress the salad right before serving to keep the cucumbers crispy. If you pre-dress it, squeeze a little lemon juice over the top to help retain freshness.
