Italian-Style Cucumber Tomato Salad

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Author: Opera Cook
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Salad served with sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions, topped with a spoonful of Italian dressing in a rustic bowl on a wooden table.

A herby, zesty upgrade to your classic summer side dish. This Cucumber Tomato Salad with Italian Dressing takes everything you love about fresh garden salads and infuses it with the bold, rustic charm of Italy. Think crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and red onions tossed in a fragrant homemade Italian vinaigrette loaded with oregano, basil, and garlic.

Perfect for picnics, potlucks, light lunches, or Mediterranean-themed meals, this salad is a fresh, colorful way to bring authentic Italian flavor to your table—all in under 15 minutes.


🍅 Why You’ll Love This Italian Cucumber Tomato Salad

  • Full of bold Mediterranean flavor

  • ✅ Uses fresh, seasonal ingredients

  • ✅ Quick and easy: Ready in under 15 minutes

  • ✅ Great as a side, snack, or light meal

  • ✅ Vegan, gluten-free, and endlessly customizable

This isn’t your average garden salad—it’s sunshine in a bowl, seasoned with herbs and bursting with life.


🛒 Ingredients

For the Salad

  • 2 cups cucumbers, thinly sliced (use English or Persian for best crunch)

  • 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved

  • ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced

  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped or torn

For the Homemade Italian Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

  • 1 garlic clove, minced

  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano

  • ½ teaspoon dried basil

  • ¼ teaspoon salt

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

  • Optional: 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes for a gentle kick

Pro Tip: You can double the dressing and store leftovers in the fridge for up to one week.


👨‍🍳 How to Make Italian-Style Cucumber Tomato Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Wash and pat dry all produce. Slice cucumbers and red onions thinly. Halve the cherry tomatoes. Chop or tear the fresh basil.

Step 2: Whisk the Italian Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, vinegar, mustard, garlic, and dried herbs. Whisk (or shake, if using a jar) until fully emulsified.

Step 3: Toss & Serve

Place the cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and basil in a large bowl. Drizzle the dressing over the top. Toss gently to combine.

Let sit for 5–10 minutes so the flavors meld. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to eat.


🍽️ What to Serve It With

This Italian-style salad complements both rustic and refined dishes. Try it alongside:

  • Grilled chicken, steak, or sausage

  • Pasta dishes like baked ziti or lasagna

  • Antipasto platters with olives, cheeses, and cured meats

  • Garlic bread or focaccia

  • Caprese sandwiches, paninis, or wraps

It also makes a fantastic base salad—just add chickpeas, tuna, or mozzarella to turn it into a complete meal.


🌿 Variations and Add-Ons

Add Protein

  • Sliced grilled chicken

  • White beans or chickpeas

  • Shaved parmesan or fresh mozzarella balls

Swap the Vinegar

  • Try balsamic vinegar for a richer twist

  • Use lemon juice for extra brightness

Add More Veggies

  • Bell peppers

  • Olives

  • Artichoke hearts

  • Zucchini ribbons


🧊 Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Best served fresh after tossing, but can be chilled for up to 1 day.

  • To avoid sogginess, store dressing separately if prepping ahead.

  • Leftovers? Use in wraps, grain bowls, or as a topping for crostini.

💬 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use store-bought Italian dressing?

Yes, in a pinch! But homemade offers fresher flavor and allows you to control salt, oil, and sweetness levels.

Can I make this salad the night before?

Yes—but for the best texture, keep the dressing and salad separate until just before serving.

Which cucumbers are best for this salad?

English or Persian cucumbers are ideal: thin-skinned, crisp, and less watery than standard slicing cucumbers.

What’s the best vinegar to use?

Red wine vinegar is traditional, but white wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar can work depending on your flavor preference.

Is this salad vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free. Just make sure any added cheese or store-bought dressing is compliant if you’re following a strict diet.


🇮🇹 Final Thoughts: Simple Ingredients, Big Italian Flavor

This Italian-Style Cucumber Tomato Salad is proof that you don’t need complicated ingredients to make something amazing. With just a few pantry staples, some fresh produce, and a little love, you’ve got a salad that tastes like it came from a sun-soaked Tuscan village.

Whether you’re preparing a full Italian dinner or just looking for something refreshing to enjoy on a warm afternoon, this salad is a quick and flavorful favorite you’ll make again and again.

Opera Cook!
Opera Cook

Welcome to my kitchen! I’m Opera Cook, a passionate home cook sharing tried-and-true comfort recipes made with love. Whether you’re craving fluffy pancakes, rustic bread, or rich chocolate desserts—you’re in the right place. Let’s bake something wonderful together!

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