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Tomato Cucumber Onion Salad - Simple, Fresh, and Zesty

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Tomatoes (4 medium, ripe but firm; Roma or cherry tomatoes work well)
  • Cucumbers (1 large English cucumber or 2 Persian cucumbers)
  • Red onion (1 small; or use 1/2 medium)
  • Fresh herbs (1/4 cup chopped; parsley, dill, mint, or basil)
  • Extra-virgin olive oil (3 tablespoons)
  • Red wine vinegar (2 tablespoons; or apple cider vinegar)
  • Lemon juice (1 tablespoon, freshly squeezed)
  • Garlic (1 small clove, finely grated or minced; optional)
  • Sugar or honey (1/2 teaspoon)
  • Salt (start with 3/4 teaspoon, plus more to taste)
  • Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon, freshly ground)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (pinch; optional)
  • Feta cheese (1/3 cup, crumbled; optional for serving)

Method
 

  1. Prep the vegetables: Halve the tomatoes and cut into bite-size wedges or chunks. Slice the cucumber into half-moons. Thinly slice the red onion. Keep pieces similar in size so each bite feels balanced.
  2. Soften the onion bite (optional but recommended): Place the sliced onion in a bowl of cold water with a splash of vinegar for 10 minutes. Drain and pat dry. This takes away the harsh edge without losing flavor.
  3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, garlic (if using), sugar or honey, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust—add more vinegar for tang, more oil for roundness, or a pinch more sugar if it’s too sharp.
  4. Toss gently: In a large bowl, combine tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions. Pour over the dressing and toss gently with a spoon or your hands. Be careful not to crush the tomatoes.
  5. Add herbs: Fold in the chopped herbs. Dill or mint gives a cooling note, parsley adds freshness, and basil brings a soft sweetness. Use one or mix a couple.
  6. Rest briefly: Let the salad sit for 10–15 minutes at room temperature. This helps the flavors mingle and the tomatoes release some juice, which blends with the dressing.
  7. Finish and serve: Taste again and adjust salt, pepper, or acidity. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Top with crumbled feta just before serving for creaminess.