Sometimes the simplest recipes are the ones that disappear first.
This Fresh Cucumber, Cherry Tomato & Mint Salad is crisp, colorful, and incredibly refreshing. Sweet tomatoes, cool cucumbers, and fresh mint are tossed with a light vinaigrette that lets every ingredient shine.
Whether you're hosting a book club, bringing a dish to a summer gathering, or simply looking for an easy side for grilled chicken or seafood, this salad comes together in minutes and tastes like summer in a bowl.
Why You'll Love It
- Ready in about 15 minutes
- No cooking required
- Fresh, bright summer flavors
- Perfect for picnics and potlucks
- Pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, and sandwiches
- Easy to make ahead
This is one of those recipes that looks impressive on the table while requiring very little effort in the kitchen.
Fresh Cucumber, Cherry Tomato & Mint Salad
Crisp cucumbers, sweet cherry tomatoes, and fresh mint tossed in a light vinaigrette create a refreshing summer side dish that's perfect for entertaining or everyday meals.
15 Minutes
0 Minutes
15 Minutes
Ingredients
- 2 English cucumbers, sliced into half-moons
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Place the sliced cucumbers and halved cherry tomatoes into a large serving bowl.
- Add the chopped fresh mint.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently until evenly coated.
- Allow the salad to sit for 10 minutes before serving so the flavors can mingle.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Notes
- English cucumbers work best because they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin.
- Fresh mint is the star ingredient—avoid dried mint for this recipe.
- If making ahead, add the mint shortly before serving for the freshest flavor.
Tips
- Use a mix of red and yellow cherry tomatoes for extra color.
- Chill ingredients before assembling for maximum freshness.
- A sprinkle of feta cheese makes a delicious variation.
Storage & Variations
Storage: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Variations:
- Add crumbled feta cheese.
- Include thinly sliced red onion.
- Add diced avocado just before serving.
- Swap mint for fresh basil.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare it a few hours ahead and refrigerate until serving.
Can I use regular cucumbers?
Absolutely. Peel if desired and remove large seeds if necessary.
What proteins pair well with this salad?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, salmon, and steak are all excellent choices.
Kitchen Essentials
Helpful tools for making recipes like this:
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📚 Book Lists & Reading Life
Book Pairing Suggestion
This bright summer salad pairs perfectly with a beach read, a light women's fiction novel, or a small-town romance. Serve it alongside a glass of iced tea, find a shady spot outdoors, and enjoy a few uninterrupted chapters.
Looking for more reader-friendly recipes? Browse all of my Recipes for cozy breakfasts, easy dinners, drinks, and book club favorites.
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