This creamy cucumber tomato salad is a refreshing mix of crunchy cucumbers and sweet tomatoes, all wrapped in a smooth, tangy dressing. Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor!
I love serving this salad on a hot day—it’s super easy to whip up! Just chop, mix, and enjoy a bowl of coolness that makes you smile. Perfect for a picnic or a side dish at dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Use English cucumbers for a sweeter flavor and fewer seeds. If they’re hard to find, regular cucumbers work well too. Just make sure to peel them for a smoother texture. Sometimes I like to score the cucumber with a fork for a pretty presentation!
Cherry Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes add sweetness, but feel free to substitute with any tomatoes you have, like roma or heirloom. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces. I often pick a mix of colors for a beautiful salad.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: If you want a lighter dressing, Greek yogurt is my go-to. It’s creamy yet adds protein. For lactose-free options, you can use dairy-free yogurt. Swap sour cream or yogurt with tahini for a unique twist!
Fresh Herbs: Dill is key to this salad, but if you don’t have it, try basil or cilantro for a different flavor. Fresh herbs can elevate the dish, so don’t skip them!
Red Onion: Red onion provides a nice crunch and flavor. If it’s too strong for you, soak the sliced onion in cold water for 10-15 minutes to mellow the taste.
How Do I Make the Creamy Dressing Smooth?
Creating a smooth dressing is vital for this salad. Here are some tips to perfect it:
- Start with room-temperature sour cream or yogurt. It blends better than cold from the fridge.
- Whisk the dressing ingredients in a small bowl before adding it to the salad to ensure everything is well combined.
- If you find lumps, you can use a small food processor to mix everything together. This will give you a velvety texture.
- Adjust thickness by adding a splash of water or extra lemon juice if needed!
How to Make Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad with Fresh Herbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (or 3 medium tomatoes, chopped)
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice or white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. Additionally, allow it to chill in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes to let the flavors blend beautifully. In total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick yet delicious side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Veggies:
In a large bowl, toss together the sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion. Make sure everything is mixed well so the flavors can really shine through.
2. Create the Creamy Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the sour cream or Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice (or white vinegar), minced garlic (if you’re using it), salt, and pepper. Mix until it’s nice and smooth. This dressing will give your salad that creamy, delicious flavor!
3. Combine Dressing and Veggies:
Pour the creamy dressing over your vegetable mix. Gently toss everything together until all the veggies are well coated in the dressing. Take your time to ensure each piece is nicely covered.
4. Add Fresh Herbs:
Now it’s time to add that fresh herb goodness! Sprinkle in the chopped dill, parsley, and chives. Mix lightly once more to distribute those vibrant herbs throughout your salad.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 20-30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Before serving, give the salad a quick stir and adjust the salt and pepper if needed.
6. Enjoy!
Serve your creamy cucumber tomato salad chilled, and enjoy this refreshing dish as a side or a light snack. You’re going to love how bright and delicious it is!
Enjoy your fresh, creamy cucumber tomato salad!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Sour Cream?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt gives a healthy twist to the dressing while still providing a creamy texture. Just ensure it’s plain yogurt for the best flavor.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover creamy cucumber tomato salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The vegetables may release some moisture, so give it a quick stir before serving.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just be sure to mix in the dressing and herbs right before serving for optimal freshness and crunch.
What Other Herbs Can I Use?
If you don’t have dill, try basil or cilantro for a different flavor profile. Fresh mint also adds a refreshing twist to this salad!
