As the sun begins to warm the days and nature bursts into bloom, there’s nothing quite like a light and refreshing dish to celebrate the season. I found myself craving something that balanced crispness with creaminess, and that’s when this Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad came to life! With every bite, the vibrant crunch of English cucumbers dances alongside the sweet bursts of grape tomatoes, all beautifully bathed in a tangy, rich dressing.
What I love most about this salad is not just its incredibly fresh flavors, but also the ease of bringing it together. In just 10 minutes, you can whip up a side that’s perfect for backyard barbecues, picnics, or even as a quick weeknight meal companion. This recipe is particularly delightful for those of us looking to ditch the fast food rut and embrace wholesome, homemade goodness. Grab your veggies, and let’s dive into a bowl of pure, creamy bliss!
Why is Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Fresh and Flavorful: The crisp cucumbers and sweet tomatoes create a delightful medley of vibrant tastes that refresh your palate.
Versatile Delight: Whether as a side at barbecues, a picnic staple, or a light lunch, this salad complements any occasion effortlessly.
Health-Conscious Choice: With only 126 calories per serving, you can indulge without guilt while enjoying wholesome ingredients.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Everyone loves a creamy salad, and this one is sure to impress your guests! For more fresh inspirations, check out my other salad recipes.
Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad Ingredients
Get ready to whip up a delicious Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad with these simple ingredients!
For the Salad
• 4 cups sliced English cucumber – Adds a cool, crisp texture that’s truly refreshing.
• ½ cup sliced red onion – Provides a mild sweetness that complements the veggies.
• 1 pint grape or cherry tomatoes – Sweet and juicy, they’re the star of this dish.
For the Dressing
• ⅓ cup sour cream – Offers a creamy base that brings everything together.
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise – Enhances the richness and smoothness of the dressing.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Adds a touch of healthy fat while enhancing flavor.
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar – Gives a tangy kick that balances the richness.
• ¾ teaspoon granulated sugar – A pinch of sweetness to round out the flavors.
• 1 ½ teaspoons chopped fresh dill or ½ teaspoon dried – Infuses a fresh herb essence that brightens the salad.
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder – Adds depth and warmth to the dressing’s profile.
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances all the flavors for a more vibrant taste.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper – Offers a subtle heat to the dressing.
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to creating a delightful bowl of creamy goodness in no time!
How to Make Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad
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Toss Together: Start by combining the sliced cucumbers, red onion, and halved grape tomatoes in a large bowl. Mix gently to ensure the ingredients are well blended and evenly distributed.
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Whisk the Dressing: In a separate measuring cup or small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, dill, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
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Drizzle and Coat: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the vegetable mixture. Gently stir to coat the veggies evenly, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired.
Optional: Top with additional fresh dill for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad
• Cucumber Selection: Choose English cucumbers for their thin skin and fewer seeds. They maintain a crisp texture and enhance the salad’s freshness.
• Dressing Consistency: If the dressing feels too thick, add a splash of water or an extra dash of olive oil to achieve your desired creaminess without losing flavor.
• Herb Variations: Fresh dill is fantastic, but if you don’t have it, experiment with parsley or basil for a different twist that still complements the creamy cucumber tomato salad beautifully.
• Avoid Watery Salad: To keep the salad crisp, sprinkle sliced cucumbers with salt and let them sit for about 5 minutes before mixing. This draws out excess water.
• Make Ahead: For the best flavor, make the dressing in advance and refrigerate it. Just toss it with the veggies right before serving for a refreshing crunch!
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can stay chilled for a few days.
Avoid Freezing: Freezing this creamy cucumber tomato salad is not recommended, as the texture of the cucumbers and tomatoes will change after thawing, becoming mushy.
Reheating: If you’ve kept the salad snug in the fridge and it’s cold when you want to enjoy it, simply stir gently to distribute the dressing and serve. Enjoy the fresh flavors while they last!
Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad Variations
Feel free to have fun and customize this salad to suit your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute sour cream and mayonnaise with dairy-free yogurt and mayo for a creamy vegan option.
Experiment with the texture; it remarkably maintains the delightful creaminess without dairy! -
Herb Boost: Add fresh mint or basil along with dill to amplify the flavor profile.
These fresh herbs will introduce a fragrant note, making every bite aromatic and refreshing. -
Crunchy Add-Ins: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or radishes for an extra crunch.
These veggies not only add texture but also a pop of color to the salad! -
Spicy Twist: Mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
The heat beautifully contrasts with the creaminess, creating an exciting flavor explosion. -
Nutty Flavor: Sprinkle in some toasted sunflower seeds or walnuts for a nutty crunch.
Adding nuts brings a heartiness to the salad, elevating it to a filling dish on its own! -
Swap Tomatoes: Use diced cucumbers and a handful of sweet corn instead of tomatoes for a different spin.
This mix creates a summer-inspired flavor that’s equally vibrant and satisfying. -
Zesty Dressing: Swap apple cider vinegar for lemon juice in the dressing for a bright, citrusy zing.
The tartness from lemon elevates the overall freshness, making each bite feel even lighter! -
Avocado Addition: Fold in avocado chunks for a creamy texture boost that’s also satisfying.
The avocado definitely enhances the richness while adding a healthy fat element, keeping things wholesome!
Make Ahead Options
The Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad is a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice the cucumbers, red onion, and tomatoes up to 24 hours in advance; just keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. For the dressing, mix the sour cream, mayonnaise, olive oil, vinegar, sugar, dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and store it separately for up to 3 days. This approach prevents the salad from becoming soggy. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the prepped veggies with the dressing, toss gently, and enjoy a delightful, crisp dish with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad?
This vibrant salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, charming your taste buds with fresh, delightful flavors.
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Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken adds a savory element, creating a satisfying balance with the creamy salad.
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Quinoa Pilaf: Light and fluffy quinoa pilaf brings a nutty texture that complements the crisp cucumbers beautifully.
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Roasted Vegetables: Sweet, caramelized roasted veggies lend a contrast in texture and a touch of earthiness to your meal.
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Corn on the Cob: Charred corn on the cob offers a sweet crunch that elevates the freshness of the salad, perfect for summer.
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Pita Bread: Soft, warm pita is ideal for scooping up the creamy goodness, making it a delightful accompaniment.
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Chilled White Wine: A refreshing, crisp white wine enhances the overall dining experience, aligning perfectly with the salad’s tangy dressing.
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Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a light lemon sorbet cleanses the palate, offering a sweet, citrusy finish to your meal.
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Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm garlic bread for an irresistible contrast, great for soaking up any leftover dressing.
Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe cucumbers and tomatoes?
Absolutely! For the best results in your Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad, look for cucumbers that are firm, with a smooth skin and no dark spots. English cucumbers are preferred for their crisp texture. As for tomatoes, choose grape or cherry tomatoes that are plump and vibrant in color, with a slight give when gently squeezed – this indicates ripeness and sweetness.
How should I store leftovers?
Very! Store any leftover Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Before serving, give it a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing, as some separation may occur. Make sure to enjoy it while the flavors are still fresh and vibrant!
Can I freeze Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad?
It’s best to avoid freezing this salad, as freezing can alter the texture of both cucumbers and tomatoes, making them mushy when thawed. If you have extra dressing, you can freeze it in ice cube trays for up to 3 months. Just pop out a cube when you need to whip up another fresh salad!
What if my cucumbers are too watery?
If your cucumbers release excess water and make your salad watery, it’s a simple fix! Before assembling, sprinkle the sliced cucumbers with a pinch of salt and let them sit for about 5 minutes. This process draws out excess moisture. Afterward, pat them dry with a paper towel before combining them with the other ingredients.
Are there any dietary considerations for this salad?
Absolutely! If you’re hosting guests with dietary restrictions, this Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad can be easily adjusted. For a dairy-free version, substitute the sour cream and mayonnaise with plant-based alternatives like vegan sour cream and mayo. Also, ensure to check for any allergies, particularly if you’re using fresh herbs or adjusting the dressing ingredients.
How can I enhance the flavor of the salad?
To heighten the flavors of your Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad, consider marinating the cucumbers and tomatoes in a mix of olive oil and vinegar for about 15 minutes before adding the dressing. This extra step amplifies the freshness and provides a lovely tang. Additionally, try incorporating other fresh herbs like parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty kick!
Deliciously Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad for Fresh Flavor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by combining the sliced cucumbers, red onion, and halved grape tomatoes in a large bowl. Mix gently to ensure the ingredients are well blended and evenly distributed.
- In a separate measuring cup or small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, dill, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Drizzle the prepared dressing over the vegetable mixture. Gently stir to coat the veggies evenly, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired.
- Optional: Top with additional fresh dill for a pop of color and flavor.