You know that moment when you bring a dish to a cookout and everyone asks for the recipe? That’s how this creamy tomato and cucumber salad earned its spot in my regular summer lineup. After testing dozens of versions over the years, I figured out what really works and what just makes your salad soggy. Trust me, I’ve made every mistake so you don’t have to. What you get here is my go-to version, with crisp vegetables and a creamy dressing that stays thick and flavorful. Let’s make something everyone will want seconds of.
See all our Cucumber Salad Variations
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Tomato and Cucumber Salad Creamy
This salad stands out for more than just its fresh flavor. It fixes the most common complaint: watery dressing. By prepping the cucumbers and tomatoes the right way, you keep the salad crisp and the sauce thick.
You also get dressing options to suit any mood or diet. Go with the classic creamy base, try a lighter version with Greek yogurt, or opt for a plant-based twist if you’re avoiding dairy. Each version offers great taste with simple ingredients.
Whether you’re grilling steak, flipping burgers, or packing lunch, this salad fits right in. It’s fast to make, easy to adapt, and full of cool, creamy goodness that works for any meal.
The 5-Minute Creamy Dressing (Plus 3 Variations)
This salad starts with a rich, flavorful dressing you can make in minutes. Below are four options to match your taste or dietary needs.
Classic Creamy Dressing (The Go-To)
This is the standard version, perfect for those who love a thick, smooth texture with just the right amount of tang.
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 clove garlic, minced or pressed
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Whisk everything in a small bowl until smooth. Chill while you prepare the vegetables for the best flavor.
Lighter Greek Yogurt Dressing
For a healthier option, Greek yogurt gives a tangy kick while cutting down on fat.
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise for creaminess
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Fresh chopped dill and parsley
- Pinch of salt and black pepper
Stir well until creamy. The yogurt adds protein and a refreshing tartness.
Zesty Ranch-Style Dressing
If you’re craving something bold, this ranch-inspired twist adds a punch of flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon sour cream
- 1 teaspoon chopped chives
- 1 pinch onion powder
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Blend until smooth. This dressing pairs great with grilled meats.
Dairy-Free and Vegan Creamy Dressing
For a plant-based take, use dairy-free yogurt or cashew cream as the base.
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened plant-based yogurt or blended cashew cream
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Chopped fresh dill and parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix until smooth. It’s creamy, full of flavor, and completely dairy-free.
Tomato And Cucumber Salad Creamy
Ingredients
- 3 medium tomatoes
- 1 English cucumber
- ½ medium onion
- 1 large garlic clove
- 4 Tbsp sour cream
- 1 Tbsp mayonnaise optional
- ⅛ tsp pepper
- salt to taste
Instructions
Prep the vegetables
- Wash the tomatoes and cucumbers well. Cut the tomatoes into chunks that are easy to bite. Halve the cucumbers lengthwise and slice them into thin pieces. Thinly slice the onion and mince the garlic. Set everything aside.
Mix the dressing
- In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, and black pepper. Stir until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Combine ingredients
- Place the chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, sliced onion, and garlic into a medium-sized mixing bowl. Pour the creamy dressing over the top.
Mix gently
- Stir the salad carefully using a large spoon to coat the vegetables evenly without breaking them apart.
Season and serve
- Just before serving, sprinkle with salt and stir one final time. This keeps the vegetables firm and the flavors fresh.
Optional chill time
- For extra flavor, let the salad chill in the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes before serving. This helps the dressing soak in and thicken slightly.
Notes
Amount per Serving
- Calories: 50
- Fat: 3g (5%)
- Saturated Fat: 1g (6%)
- Trans Fat: 0.01g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 4mg (1%)
- Sodium: 26mg (1%)
- Potassium: 253mg (7%)
- Carbohydrates: 6g (2%)
- Fiber: 1g (4%)
- Sugar: 3g (3%)
- Protein: 1g (2%)
- Vitamin A: 593 IU (12%)
- Vitamin C: 11mg (13%)
- Calcium: 29mg (3%)
- Iron: 0.3mg (2%)
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy tomato and cucumber salad. The ingredients are simple, but the flavor is fresh and satisfying.
For the salad base:
- 3 medium tomatoes, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 2 medium cucumbers, halved lengthwise and sliced
- 1 English cucumber can be used instead of the two regular ones
- Half of a medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 large garlic clove, finely minced or pressed
For the creamy dressing:
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- One eighth teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
You can adjust the herbs and seasoning depending on your taste or the dressing variation you choose. Fresh dill or parsley adds a bright touch, and garlic builds depth in every bite.
How to Make Creamy Tomato and Cucumber Salad
Follow these simple steps to get a crisp, creamy salad that holds its flavor and texture.
- Prep the vegetables
Wash the tomatoes and cucumbers well. Cut the tomatoes into chunks that are easy to bite. Halve the cucumbers lengthwise and slice them into thin pieces. Thinly slice the onion and mince the garlic. Set everything aside.
- Mix the dressing
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, and black pepper. Stir until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Combine ingredients
Place the chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, sliced onion, and garlic into a medium-sized mixing bowl. Pour the creamy dressing over the top.
- Mix gently
Stir the salad carefully using a large spoon to coat the vegetables evenly without breaking them apart.
- Season and serve
Just before serving, sprinkle with salt and stir one final time. This keeps the vegetables firm and the flavors fresh.
- Optional chill time
For extra flavor, let the salad chill in the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes before serving. This helps the dressing soak in and thicken slightly.
Looking for something with a little more heat? Don’t miss our Spicy Cucumber Salad Recipe
For an avocado twist, check out the Tomato Cucumber and Avocado Salad
Serving and Storage Tips
This salad pairs perfectly with grilled favorites like chicken, steak kabobs, or hamburgers. It also works well next to baked salmon or even mashed potatoes for a lighter contrast. It works well as a starter, a side dish, or a light standalone lunch.
To showcase the salad’s vibrant colors and creamy texture, serve it in a wide, shallow bowl. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for extra flavor and a clean look.
If you’re planning a summer meal, this dish fits right in with BBQ ribs, roasted meats, or hotdogs. It stays cool and refreshing even on hot days, making it ideal for picnics and outdoor gatherings. Keep it chilled until you’re ready to eat for the best taste and texture.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To keep the salad tasting fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay good for two to three days. Over time, the vegetables may soften slightly, and the dressing can thin out, so it’s best to enjoy it as soon as possible.
If you want to prepare it ahead of time, chop the tomatoes, cucumbers, onion, and garlic and store them in one container. Make the dressing separately and keep it in another container. When you’re ready to serve, simply mix the two together.
This method keeps the vegetables crisp and prevents the dressing from becoming watery. If needed, give the salad a quick stir and taste before serving to adjust the salt or herbs. This make-ahead tip is perfect when you’re planning meals for gatherings or busy days.
Conclusion
This creamy tomato and cucumber salad is more than just a quick side dish. It’s a reliable go-to for warm days when you want something light, fresh, and full of flavor. The rich dressing clings to every bite, and the crisp vegetables bring out the best of summer produce.
You can count on it not to turn watery, thanks to smart prep steps and flexible dressing choices. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or keeping lunch simple, this recipe fits the moment.
If you’ve made this salad, share your thoughts in the comments and give it a star rating. Your feedback helps others and inspires more great food ideas. Don’t forget to share it with friends on Pinterest or Facebook.
Have you added your own twist or a favorite herb? Let us know what you did. We’d love to hear how you made it yours.
Back to our Summer Salad Recipes Guide
FAQs
1. What dressing goes on cucumber tomato salad?
A creamy dressing made from mayonnaise and sour cream is a classic choice. You can also use Greek yogurt for a lighter version or plant-based yogurt for a dairy-free option. Add herbs like dill or parsley, garlic, and a splash of lemon juice or vinegar for extra flavor.
2. How to make cucumber and tomato salad with mayonnaise?
Start by slicing cucumbers and chopping tomatoes. Mix mayonnaise with sour cream, minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and a bit of pepper.Drizzle the dressing over the vegetables and mix gently to coat them evenly. Chill for a short time if you want the flavors to blend more deeply.
3. How to prepare cucumbers for salad?
Wash the cucumbers well. If they are not the seedless variety, cut them in half and scoop out the seeds to avoid excess water. Slice them into thin half-moons for a clean texture. Pat them dry with a paper towel if they seem too wet.
4. Is it better to peel the cucumber or leave the skin on for a salad?
When using English cucumbers or organic varieties with thin skin, you can leave the skin on. It adds a bit of texture and color. For cucumbers with thicker, waxy skin, peeling may be a better option for a softer bite.
5. What’s the best way to prevent cucumber salad from becoming watery?
Remove seeds from regular cucumbers and lightly salt them to draw out excess moisture. Let them sit for a few minutes, then pat dry. Also, avoid adding salt too early in the process and mix the dressing just before serving.
6. What are some tasty additions you can include in a cucumber tomato salad for variety?
Try adding sliced red onion, chopped chives, crumbled feta, or olives for extra flavor. Fresh herbs like basil or mint can also give the salad a different twist. You can even include cooked grains like quinoa or chickpeas to turn it into a more filling dish.
