Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe

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Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe – A Cool, Refreshing Classic Made Simple

When the weather turns warm and you’re craving something light yet satisfying, few dishes deliver like a Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad. Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and thin slices of onion come together in a tangy, velvety dressing that’s both refreshing and comforting. It’s the perfect side dish for grilled meals, picnics, or even as a quick lunch on its own.

What makes this salad special is its balance of textures and flavors—cool crunch from cucumbers, sweet acidity from tomatoes, subtle sharpness from onions, and a creamy dressing that ties everything together beautifully.

Let’s walk through the method step by step so you can make this classic salad perfectly every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the salad:

2 large cucumbers (English or garden cucumbers)
2–3 medium ripe tomatoes
½ small red onion (or sweet onion)
1 tablespoon fresh chopped dill (optional but recommended)

For the creamy dressing:

¾ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional, for extra richness)
1–2 tablespoons white vinegar or fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon sugar (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for smoothness)

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. If using English cucumbers, you can leave the skin on since it’s tender. If using thicker-skinned garden cucumbers, you may prefer to peel them partially or completely.

Slice the cucumbers into thin, even rounds—about ⅛ to ¼ inch thick. Uniform slices help the dressing coat them evenly.

Optional but helpful tip:
If your cucumbers are very watery, place the slices in a colander, sprinkle lightly with salt, and let them sit for 15–20 minutes. This draws out excess moisture and prevents the salad from becoming watery later. Pat them dry gently with paper towels before assembling.

Step 2: Slice the Tomatoes

Choose firm, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor and texture. Wash and dry them, then cut into wedges or bite-sized chunks.

If your tomatoes are extra juicy, you can gently remove some of the seeds and watery pulp. This step isn’t required, but it helps maintain a thicker, creamier dressing consistency.

Place the cut tomatoes into a large mixing bowl.