Refreshing Cucumber Salad Splash

Name: Refreshing Cucumber Salad Splash
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large cucumbers, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional); 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Light Nourishing Meal Ideas

I love making this Refreshing Cucumber Salad Splash during the hot summer days. It’s light, refreshing, and packed with flavor! The crispness of the cucumbers combined with the tang of lemon and the sweetness of cherry tomatoes creates a delightful balance. This salad is not just easy to make, but it also adds a burst of color to any meal. Whether as a side dish or a light lunch on its own, this salad quickly became a family favorite and is sure to impress guests at any gathering.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-05T17:22:27.519Z

When I first made this salad, I experimented with different dressing options, but the simple combination of olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt really enhances the fresh flavors. The key is to let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Each bite is like a refreshing burst of summer!

One of my favorite tips is to sprinkle some feta cheese on top before serving; it adds a creamy texture that contrasts perfectly with the crisp vegetables. It’s a salad that not only tastes great but also looks vibrant and inviting!

Why You'll Love This Salad
Crisp and crunchy texture that refreshes your palate
Zesty lemon and fresh herbs for a burst of flavor
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days

Ingredient Insights

The star of this Refreshing Cucumber Salad Splash, cucumbers, provide not only crunch but also hydration due to their high water content, making them excellent for hot weather. Choosing the right cucumber is key; look for firm cucumbers with a bright, unblemished skin. If you're using English cucumbers, there’s no need to peel them, as their skin is thin and tender, adding to the overall texture of the salad.

Cherry tomatoes add a pop of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the tangy dressing. When selecting your tomatoes, go for plump, vibrant-hued ones. If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, you can substitute with halved grape tomatoes or even diced larger varieties. I love using heirloom tomatoes for their unique flavors, but be sure to adjust the size to maintain a balance in your salad.

Preparation Techniques

When preparing the vegetables, it’s important to cut everything into uniform pieces to ensure even mixing and a pleasing presentation. Dicing the cucumbers into bite-sized pieces and halving the cherry tomatoes allows for a perfect bite in every mouthful. As you mix, be gentle to avoid bruising the tomatoes, which can release juice and make the salad watery.

For the dressing, whisking the olive oil and lemon juice vigorously helps emulsify the mixture, creating a cohesive dressing rather than a separated oil and vinegar solution. If you prefer a creamier dressing, consider adding a spoonful of Greek yogurt for a dip-inspired twist while still keeping the salad light.

Ingredients

Gather the following fresh ingredients to create this delightful salad:

Salad Ingredients

2 large cucumbers, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

Dressing Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

This combination of ingredients will create a vibrant and flavorful salad that is sure to please!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your salad:

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the diced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, and chopped parsley. Toss gently to mix the ingredients.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine and Chill

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Serve

Before serving, sprinkle with feta cheese if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Your Refreshing Cucumber Salad Splash is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added crunch, consider including bell peppers or even avocados. Adjust the dressing to your taste, adding more lemon juice or olive oil as preferred.

Storage Tips

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The cucumbers may soften slightly, but the flavors will continue to meld together, providing an even more intense taste. Just make sure to give it a gentle toss before serving again to revitalize the ingredients.

If you're planning to make the salad ahead of time for a gathering, you can prepare the vegetables a few hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator without dressing. Mix the dressing separately and combine just before serving to keep the salad crisp.

Serving Suggestions

This Refreshing Cucumber Salad Splash makes a fantastic side dish for grilled meats, seafood, or as a topping for flatbreads. Its bright flavors complement rich dishes perfectly while adding a refreshing crunch. On its own, it can serve as a light lunch—maybe paired with whole grain crackers or a simple protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas for a more substantial meal.

For a beautiful presentation, consider serving the salad in a large, shallow bowl and garnishing with extra parsley or a sprinkle of lemon zest. You can even experiment with adding sliced olives or avocados for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this salad a few hours in advance. Just keep it refrigerated.

→ Is this salad vegan?

Absolutely! Just omit the feta cheese to keep it vegan-friendly.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to include bell peppers, radishes, or even diced avocados for variation.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, but keep in mind the cucumbers may lose some of their crunch.