Name: Cucumber and Heirloom Tomato Salad with Red Onions Recipe
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 2 cups heirloom tomatoes (sliced – choose ripe, firm tomatoes for a sweet, juicy flavor.); 1 large cucumber (peeled and sliced – I prefer English cucumbers because they have fewer seeds and a crisp texture.); ½ medium red onion (thinly sliced – soaking in cold water for 10 minutes mellows the sharpness.); 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – adds richness and helps coat the vegetables evenly.; 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar – gives the salad a tangy kick that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.; Salt and pepper to taste – freshly ground pepper works best for a bold flavor.; Optional fresh herbs (basil or parsley – enhances freshness and adds a pop of color.)

Do Share Recipe

I love fresh, simple salads, especially during warm weather when produce is at its peak. This Cucumber and Heirloom Tomato Salad with Red Onions Recipe quickly became one of my favorites because it’s light, colorful, and bursting with natural flavors.

Every bite feels refreshing, and the tangy vinaigrette really elevates the vegetables, much like the bold yet comforting flavors found in Roasted Red Pepper Rigatoni. I enjoy making it for family dinners or as a side for a summer barbecue. It’s effortless, healthy, and looks beautiful on the table.

Cucumber and Heirloom Tomato Salad with Red Onions Recipe

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make this salad taste fresh and vibrant:

2 cups heirloom tomatoes, sliced – choose ripe, firm tomatoes for a sweet, juicy flavor.
1 large cucumber, peeled and sliced – I prefer English cucumbers because they have fewer seeds and a crisp texture.
½ medium red onion, thinly sliced – soaking in cold water for 10 minutes mellows the sharpness.
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – adds richness and helps coat the vegetables evenly.
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar – gives the salad a tangy kick that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.
Salt and pepper to taste – freshly ground pepper works best for a bold flavor.
Optional fresh herbs (basil or parsley) – enhances freshness and adds a pop of color.

Note: Several servings

Variations

You can easily adjust this salad to suit dietary preferences or boost flavors:

Use dairy-free feta for a creamy texture without dairy.
Add avocado slices for a richer, buttery taste.
Sprinkle sunflower seeds or toasted pine nuts for crunch.
Substitute apple cider vinegar if you prefer a milder acidity.
Include a drizzle of honey in the dressing for subtle sweetness.

Cooking Time

This salad is quick and easy to make:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

Equipment You Need

Cutting board – for chopping vegetables safely.
Chef’s knife – sharp knife ensures clean slices.
Mixing bowl – toss all ingredients together evenly.
Salad tongs or spoon – to serve without breaking the vegetables.

How to Make Cucumber and Heirloom Tomato Salad with Red Onions Recipe

Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing your tomatoes and cucumber thoroughly. Slice the heirloom tomatoes into bite-sized wedges and peel the cucumber, then cut into thin rounds for a crisp texture.

Soak the Onions

Thinly slice the red onion and place them in a bowl of cold water for 10 minutes. This reduces their pungency while keeping flavor intact.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. This simple vinaigrette lets the vegetables shine, especially when paired alongside seafood dishes such as Seared Scallops with Smoky Sweet Corn Purée.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the tomatoes, cucumber, and red onions with the dressing. Be careful not to mash the tomatoes while mixing.

Add Herbs and Serve

Finish the salad with freshly chopped herbs like basil or parsley. Chill for 10–15 minutes if desired, then serve fresh.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

From my experience, a few tweaks make this salad even more delicious:

I always use ripe heirloom tomatoes for natural sweetness and vibrant colors.
Letting the onions soak softens their bite without losing flavor.
Chill the salad for a short time to let the vinaigrette blend with the veggies.
I drizzle a little more olive oil before serving for added richness.
Serve immediately after mixing to prevent the tomatoes from becoming too watery.

How to Serve Cucumber and Heirloom Tomato Salad with Red Onions Recipe

This salad looks as good as it tastes when plated thoughtfully. Serve it in a wide, shallow bowl to showcase the colors. Garnish with extra fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper. Pair with grilled meats, seafood, or enjoy it on its own for a light lunch.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an estimate of what each serving provides:

Calories: 120 kcal – a light and healthy option.
Protein: 2 g – perfect for a veggie-forward meal.
Carbohydrates: 8 g – mostly from fresh vegetables.
Fat: 9 g – healthy fats from olive oil.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. I recommend adding the dressing just before serving to maintain crunch.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh. Freezing is not recommended as cucumbers and tomatoes lose their texture.

Reheating

No reheating needed. Serve chilled or at room temperature for best flavor and texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why this salad is a must-try:

Easy to Prepare – Only 10 minutes to prep, perfect for busy days.
Fresh and Vibrant – Ripe heirloom tomatoes and crisp cucumber make it visually stunning.
Customizable – Add nuts, herbs, or cheese to match your taste.
Healthy and Light – Low in calories but full of flavor.
Perfect Side or Snack – Complements grilled dishes or works on its own.

This cucumber and heirloom tomato salad with red onions is simple, refreshing, and packed with flavor. It’s the kind of recipe I keep coming back to, especially when I want a quick, healthy dish that looks beautiful on the plate.

Ben Carraoli