This creamy cucumber tomato salad is a refreshing treat! It’s packed with crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes, all mixed with a delightful dressing. Perfect for those warm days!
I love serving this salad at picnics or barbecues. It’s light, tasty, and takes just minutes to whip up. Plus, the creaminess makes it hard to resist! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Use large, firm cucumbers for the best crunch. English cucumbers are a good choice too as they have fewer seeds. If you’re short on cucumbers, zucchini can work as a substitute in a pinch!
Cherry Tomatoes: They add sweetness and color. If you can’t find cherry tomatoes, cut some regular tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Grape tomatoes are also a great substitute since they’re sweet and juicy.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Both lend creaminess. Greek yogurt is healthier, while sour cream gives a richer taste. If you need a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based yogurt or vegan sour cream.
Dill: Fresh dill makes all the difference here! If not available, dried dill works, but use less since it’s more concentrated. You could also use fresh parsley or chives for a different flavor.
How Do I Ensure the Salad Is Well-Mixed and Flavors Are Balanced?
This salad benefits from a thorough mixing. To make sure the dressing coats all the veggies, follow these steps:
- Start by mixing the dressing ingredients in a bowl until smooth. This ensures all flavors meld together before hitting the veggies.
- When adding the dressing to the salad, pour it evenly over the top, then gently toss with a spatula or large spoon.
- Letting the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes is key, as it allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
- Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning. You might want a bit more salt or lemon juice for a brightness.
Mixing and seasoning correctly results in a salad that’s tasty and refreshing! Enjoy this delightful dish at your next meal.
How to Make Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Vegetables:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
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 or white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy cucumber tomato salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. After mixing everything together, you’ll want to refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors blend beautifully. So, in total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes including chilling time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Vegetables:
Start by slicing your cucumbers, halving the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slicing the red onion. In a large bowl, add all these fresh veggies together. This will be the base of your salad!
2. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mayonnaise, lemon juice (or vinegar), chopped dill, and sugar (if you like a hint of sweetness). Add a pinch of salt and a dash of pepper. Keep mixing until it’s smooth and creamy!
3. Mix It Up:
Pour this delicious dressing over the cucumber and tomato mixture. Gently toss them together until all the veggies are coated in the creamy goodness. Be cautious not to squish the tomatoes!
4. Let It Chill:
Cover the bowl or transfer the salad to a serving dish, then pop it in the fridge. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes, which allows the flavors to meld together and makes this salad super refreshing!
5. Final Touches:
Just before serving, give the salad another gentle toss. Taste it and adjust the seasoning—add more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice if needed.
6. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve this cool, creamy cucumber tomato salad chilled. It’s a perfect side dish to accompany grilled meats or to enjoy as a light snack on its own. Your taste buds will thank you!
Can I Use Different Types of Tomatoes in This Salad?
Absolutely! While cherry tomatoes are sweet and convenient, you can use any variety of tomatoes you prefer. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes to ensure even mixing. Roma tomatoes or grape tomatoes are also great choices!
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt?
If you prefer a different flavor or need a dairy-free option, you can use a dairy-free yogurt or avocado for creaminess. For a zesty kick, consider using buttermilk or a vegan sour cream alternative!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
The creamy cucumber tomato salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just keep in mind that the cucumbers may become a bit limp, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. Give it a stir before serving again!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You sure can! It’s a great dish to make ahead. If you prepare it about a day in advance, just dress it right before serving for the freshest taste. Store the dressing separately if you want to maintain the crunchiness of the vegetables longer.
