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If you’re after a no-fuss, fresh-tasting side that’s easy to toss together, this is it. Creamy Cucumber and Tomato Salad is a true Southern staple—simple ingredients, bright flavor, and just right for those warm days when you want something light that really hits the spot. One taste, and you’ll know why it’s a favorite.
My Granny Hall had a serious green thumb—she could grow just about anything. That particular gift didn’t quite get passed down to me (unless you count herbs—I can manage those!). But what I did inherit was her knack for good home cooking. This salad? It’s exactly the kind of thing you’d find on her summer table. Just crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes, lightly dressed and served cold alongside whatever else she was making—simple and refreshing.
It showed up on our table often growing up, and it’s still showing up on my table 50 years later. Every time I make it, I think of her. Carrying those recipes forward makes me feel like she’s still here with me, teaching me through each dish I serve.
Nikki’s Recipe Rundown
- Taste & Texture: Cool, creamy, and crisp with a hint of tang from the vinegar and a little fresh bite from the dill. It’s light but still satisfying and full of those summer garden flavors.
- Ease: Just chop, mix, chill, and serve. You don’t even need to turn on the stove. It’s truly a quick-prep, no-stress side.
- Pros: Comes together fast, uses easy-to-find ingredients, and is perfect for making ahead. It goes with everything from grilled meats, to fried chicken to sandwiches.
- Considerations: It can get a little watery if it sits too long—best served within a day or so for peak texture.
- Repeat Worthy: A Southern favorite for good reason. Whether it’s on your weeknight dinner table or packed up for a picnic, it just works
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe for Spring and Summer
This dish is a simple Southern classic that really shines when you’ve got beautiful, ripe tomatoes and fresh cucumbers. I know I’m a little spoiled because I can usually find them year-round at the grocery store, but there’s just something about spring and summer—those ’maters hit different this time of year! Juicier, sweeter, and perfect for this kind of light, creamy salad.
And speaking of creamy… the bright dill, tangy vinegar, and the smooth combo of mayo and sour cream bring it all together. It’s fresh, it’s flavorful, and it’s light enough to serve with just about anything. Try it with my Best Marinated Grilled Chicken or these Grilled Sweet and Spicy Mustard Pork Chops for a simple, low-carb meal. Or pack it up for your next potluck or picnic—it’s always a crowd-pleaser!
Variations & Substitutions
This salad is a simple Southern staple—one of those back-pocket recipes that’s been passed around tables for generations. But like any good home cook knows, it’s also the kind of dish you can make your own. Whether you’re using what’s fresh from the garden or just trying to clean out the veggie bin, this salad is wonderfully flexible.
Here are a few ways to mix things up:
- Add Cheese – Crumbled feta, goat cheese, or even little mozzarella pearls add creaminess and a nice salty bite.
- Toss in Avocado – Diced avocado brings richness and a buttery texture. Just add it right before serving.
- Use Up Other Veggies – Got bell peppers, radishes, or even a leftover ear of corn? Dice ’em up and toss them in! This salad loves company.
- Switch the Herbs – Dill is the classic, but parsley, basil, or chives can change the whole flavor profile in a fun way.
- Garlic: Garlic lovers add a clove or two of minced garlic.
- Make it a Meal – Add chopped grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a handful of chickpeas to turn this into a light and satisfying main.
- Vinegar Variations – White vinegar keeps it traditional, but apple cider or red wine vinegar adds a nice twist.
- Lighter Swap – Greek yogurt is a great stand-in for sour cream if you’re looking for something a little lighter.
How to Make Southern Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad
- Prep the Veggies: Start by chopping your cucumbers and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using regular cucumbers, peel them first, and remove the seeds if you like. Place everything into a large salad bowl. Add in your sliced onion, if you’re using it, and sprinkle the chopped fresh dill over the top.
- Make the Creamy Dressing: In a separate bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Toss and Chill: Pour the dressing over your chopped veggies and gently stir or toss everything together with tongs until it’s nicely coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes to chill and let those flavors come together.
- Serve: Give it a gentle stir just before serving and enjoy! It’s cool, creamy, and perfect for pairing with just about anything.
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Picnic Worthy Sides
- Antipasto Skewers
- Columbia Restaurant 1905 Salad
- Lemon Pudding Poke Cake
- Classic Egg Salad
- Southern Pimento Cheese
How to Store Leftover Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad
If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This salad is best enjoyed within 1 to 2 days, as the cucumbers and tomatoes will release moisture over time, making it a bit watery.
To refresh it the next day, give it a gentle toss and add a spoonful of sour cream or mayo if needed to bring back some creaminess.
Can You Make This Ahead?
Yes! You can mix up the dressing a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Chop your veggies the morning of, and then toss everything together about 30 minutes before serving.
Southern-Inspired Dishes You May Enjoy
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Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 medium cucumber
- 3 medium ripe tomatoes
- ½ sweet or red onion, (optional)
- 2 tsp fresh dill, chopped
Creamy Dressing
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- salt, (to taste)
- ¼ black pepper, (or to taste)
Instructions
- Chop cucumber and tomatoes into bite size pieces or slices. Place in a large salad bowl.
- Add in sliced or chopped onion, if desired, and fresh chopped dill.
- In a bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, salt, pepper and dill. Pour over vegetables.
- Gently toss to coat.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes, gently toss and serve.
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Notes
Nutrition Information
Nutritional Disclaimer
Soulfully Made is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is only an estimate. We recommend running the ingredients through an online nutritional calculator if you need to verify any information.
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Tasty, light, and refreshing summer side salad. I take care of a disabled wife, work full time and always looking for quick simple recipes for dinner after I come in from work. This tomato and cucumber salad fits the bill perfectly. A nice addition to a slow cooker dinner on any summer evening. Thanks for sharing Nikki.
Michael, I am thrilled you enjoyed. Simple recipes make things a little easier but still so delicious. These are just perfect for summer. Thank you for being here and following along.
This is one of my favorite summer sides! It’s so simple and good and refreshing!
Thank you Amy!
This is the perfect summertime salad, I have so many cucumbers right now! YUM!!!
This is probably a stupid question, but what kind of vinegar do you use in this recipe?
Not at all. I used Distilled White Vinegar.
Pretty soon our garden will be bustling and this will be on our menu for sure! It looks perfect for summer!
Thank you Carlee! Fresh garden tomatoes are absolutely the best!