This creamy cucumber tomato salad is a refreshing mix of crunchy cucumbers and juicy tomatoes, all brought together with a smooth dressing. Perfect as a side dish on warm days!
You can whip this up in no time, and it pairs well with almost any meal. I love topping mine with a sprinkle of fresh herbs—it’s like a garden party in a bowl! 🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Use fresh, firm cucumbers for crunch. English cucumbers are great too as they have fewer seeds. If you’re looking for a twist, consider using pickling cucumbers for a more punchy flavor!
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness! If you don’t have them, you can use regular tomatoes, but make sure they’re ripe for the best flavor. Diced heirloom tomatoes also work well for added color and taste.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Sour cream gives a rich flavor, while Greek yogurt adds more protein and a tangy taste. If you’re dairy-free, try cashew cream or coconut yogurt as a substitute.
Dill: Fresh dill is fantastic for flavor! If it’s unavailable, you can use dried dill, though you’ll need less as the flavor is concentrated. Alternatively, parsley or chives can be used for a different taste.
How Do You Make the Perfect Creamy Dressing?
Getting your dressing just right is crucial for this salad. Don’t rush this step; it ties everything together!
- Start with sour cream (or Greek yogurt) and mayonnaise, which gives a great base. Adjust them based on your desired creaminess.
- Add the minced garlic and fresh lemon juice; these will brighten up the flavors. Taste as you go!
- Mix in the dill carefully. The herbs should balance well with the creamy base.
- Whisk until smooth, ensuring no lumps remain. This helps to evenly coat the veggies.
Once your dressing is ready, toss it with the veggies gently but thoroughly. Letting the salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving allows the flavors to combine beautifully! Enjoy this refreshing salad on hot days or alongside your favorite dishes.
Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 cups cherry 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
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish (optional):
- Fresh parsley or chives
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad requires about 15 minutes of prep time. After tossing everything together, you’ll want to chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. All in all, you can enjoy this lovely salad in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by washing your cucumbers and cherry tomatoes. Thinly slice the cucumbers and cut the cherry tomatoes in half. If you’re using red onion, slice it thinly as well. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, and red onion (if using).
2. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a separate smaller bowl, add the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mayonnaise, lemon juice, minced garlic, and chopped dill. Whisk them together until everything is smooth and well mixed. This dressing brings the flavors of the salad to life!
3. Combine and Season:
Pour your creamy dressing over the bowl of vegetables. Gently toss everything together to coat the veggies evenly with the dressing. Season the salad with salt and black pepper to taste. You can adjust the amount of lemon juice or dill based on your preferences!
4. Chill Out:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to a sealed container. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This cooling step is essential for letting the flavors meld together and enhances the refreshing taste.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, give the salad a quick stir. You can garnish it with fresh parsley or chives for an added touch of flavor and color. Enjoy your refreshing and creamy cucumber tomato salad as a side dish, perfect for picnics, BBQs, or any meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! You can use English cucumbers, which are longer and have fewer seeds, or pickling cucumbers for extra crunch. Just make sure to peel them if the skin is tough!
Can I Substitute Greek Yogurt for Sour Cream?
Yes, Greek yogurt is a great substitute and adds extra protein. It will create a slightly tangier flavor, but it works beautifully in this salad!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that the cucumbers may soften a bit over time, but the flavor will still be delicious!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative. You can add bell peppers, radishes, or even corn for extra color and crunch. Just chop them to a similar size so they blend well with the cucumbers and tomatoes.
