Fresh, juicy, and vibrant, this Cucumber and Heirloom Tomato Salad with Red Onions is a simple yet elegant side dish that showcases the best of summer produce. Bursting with color and flavor, it combines crisp cucumber, sweet and tangy heirloom tomatoes, and delicate red onion slices tossed in a light vinaigrette. Garnished with fresh herbs, it’s a refreshing and wholesome accompaniment to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare with just a few ingredients
Beautifully colorful and visually appealing
Bursting with fresh garden flavors
Naturally vegan, gluten-free, and low in calories
Ideal for summer barbecues, potlucks, or light lunches
Customizable with your favorite herbs and dressing variations
Uses minimal oil and can be sweetened naturally
Balances acidity and sweetness for a perfectly rounded salad
Pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or sandwiches
Ready in just 10 minutes with no cooking required

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Heirloom tomatoes, sliced (use a variety of colors for visual appeal)
Cucumber, thinly sliced
Red onion, thinly sliced
Extra virgin olive oil
Red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
Sea salt
Black pepper
Honey or maple syrup (optional)
Fresh dill or basil, for garnish

Directions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced heirloom tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, sea salt, black pepper, and honey or maple syrup if using.
Pour the vinaigrette over the vegetables and toss gently to coat evenly.
Let the salad sit for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the vegetables to slightly soften.
Garnish with fresh dill or basil before serving. Serve chilled or at room temperature for best flavor.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: Approximately 95 kcal per serving

Variations

Cheese Addition: Add crumbled feta or fresh mozzarella for a Mediterranean touch.
Avocado Upgrade: Mix in cubed avocado for creaminess.
Citrus Vinaigrette: Use lemon or lime juice instead of vinegar for a citrusy profile.
Garlic Note: Add a minced garlic clove for more depth in the dressing.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or thinly sliced jalapeño for heat.
Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds.
Balsamic Version: Replace vinegar with aged balsamic for a sweet and tangy variation.
Greens Mix: Serve over a bed of arugula or mixed baby greens.
Italian Style: Include sliced olives and oregano for an Italian spin.
Marinated Salad: Let the salad marinate in the fridge for an hour for even deeper flavor.

storage/reheating

Storage:
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. It is best enjoyed fresh, as the tomatoes and cucumber can release water and become soggy over time.

Reheating:
This salad is meant to be served cold or at room temperature and should not be reheated.

FAQs

Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of heirloom tomatoes?

Yes, halved cherry or grape tomatoes work well and are a great substitute if heirloom tomatoes aren’t available.

Is this salad vegan?

Yes, as long as you use maple syrup or omit the sweetener, this recipe is completely vegan.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the ingredients and dressing ahead, but combine and dress the salad just before serving for the best texture.

What type of cucumber works best?

English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers are ideal due to their thin skins and fewer seeds.

Can I skip the sweetener in the dressing?

Absolutely. The sweetener is optional and can be adjusted to taste or omitted entirely.

What herbs go best with this salad?

Fresh dill and basil are excellent choices, but parsley or mint can also be used.

How do I keep the salad from becoming watery?

Serve it shortly after dressing. You can also salt the cucumbers and tomatoes beforehand, let them drain, and then assemble.

Can I add protein to make it a full meal?

Yes, grilled chicken, chickpeas, or hard-boiled eggs can make it more filling.

Can I use white vinegar or lemon juice?

Yes, white wine vinegar or lemon juice are good substitutes for red wine or apple cider vinegar.

What dishes pair well with this salad?

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fish, burgers, or crusty bread for a light lunch.

Conclusion

Cucumber and Heirloom Tomato Salad with Red Onions is a light, fresh, and colorful addition to any meal, especially during the warmer months. With its crisp textures and vibrant vinaigrette, it brings out the best in seasonal produce while remaining easy and adaptable. Whether you’re preparing a casual family lunch or hosting a backyard barbecue, this salad is sure to please with its simple ingredients and beautiful presentation.

Cucumber and Heirloom Tomato Salad with Red Onions

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Author: Mari
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This cucumber and heirloom tomato salad is a fresh, vibrant side dish packed with garden flavor and seasonal color. Tossed with red onions, herbs, and a simple vinaigrette, it’s the perfect gluten-free, plant-based salad for summer meals, BBQs, and light lunches. Quick to make, beautiful to serve, and bursting with freshness.

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine sliced heirloom tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, sea salt, black pepper, and honey or maple syrup (if using).
Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat evenly.
Let the salad sit for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Garnish with fresh dill or basil before serving. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

For extra flavor, add crumbled feta or sliced avocado.
Use English cucumber or Persian cucumbers for less bitterness.
Perfect for make-ahead lunches or picnic spreads.
Add a sprinkle of chili flakes for a subtle kick.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Category: Side Dish / Salad
Method: No-Cook / Tossed
Cuisine: Mediterranean / Plant-Based