Ginger-Lime Cucumber Tomato Salad

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Author: Natalie
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Colorful cucumber tomato salad with ginger-lime dressing, garnished with herbs and lime slices in a ceramic bowl on a wooden table.

🥗 Why You’ll Love This Ginger-Lime Cucumber Tomato Salad

Looking for a salad that packs flavor, freshness, and function all in one bowl? This Ginger-Lime Cucumber Tomato Salad is your new go-to. It’s loaded with hydrating vegetables, anti-inflammatory ginger, and a bright splash of citrusy lime, making it ideal for summer meals, light lunches, or anytime you need a palate refresh.

Free of pork, bacon, wine, and alcohol, this plant-based salad also supports digestion and detoxification — thanks to fresh ginger, raw veggies, and lemony zest. Plus, it comes together in under 15 minutes with no cooking required.


🍅 Ingredients for Ginger-Lime Cucumber Tomato Salad

For the Salad:

  • 2 large cucumbers (or 4 Persian cucumbers), sliced or diced

  • 1½ cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved

  • 2 tablespoons red onion, thinly sliced (optional)

  • 1–2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or mint, chopped

  • ½ teaspoon sea salt

  • Freshly cracked black pepper to taste

For the Ginger-Lime Dressing:

  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice

  • 1 teaspoon finely grated fresh ginger

  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

  • ½ teaspoon maple syrup or honey (optional for balance)

  • ½ teaspoon lime zest (optional for extra zing)

  • Pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper (optional, for a kick)

🍋 Freshly grated ginger is the star ingredient — avoid ground ginger here for best flavor.


🥣 How to Make Ginger-Lime Cucumber Tomato Salad

Step 1 – Prep the Vegetables

Rinse and dry all produce. Slice or dice the cucumbers, halve the tomatoes, and thinly slice red onion if using. Add them all to a large salad bowl.

Step 2 – Mix the Ginger-Lime Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, grated ginger, olive oil, maple syrup or honey (if using), and lime zest. Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne for heat if desired. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

🌱 For a more intense ginger flavor, let the dressing sit for 5–10 minutes before using.

Step 3 – Toss and Garnish

Pour the dressing over the cucumber-tomato mixture and toss gently. Garnish with fresh herbs and additional lime slices if you’d like. Serve immediately for the freshest crunch.


🌿 Why This Salad Works

  • Bright & Bold: Lime and ginger make each bite zingy and refreshing

  • Hydrating & Cooling: Great for hot weather or post-workout meals

  • Anti-inflammatory: Ginger is known for its immune-boosting, digestive benefits

  • No mayo, dairy, or sugar: Just clean, whole ingredients

  • Alcohol-free, pork-free, and suitable for many diets


🥗 Serving Suggestions

This salad is perfect on its own or as a side. Try it with:

  • Grilled tofu, fish, or chicken (halal-friendly or plant-based)

  • Stir-fried rice noodles or jasmine rice

  • Asian-inspired wraps or lettuce cups

  • As a topping for avocado toast or in rice paper rolls


🧑‍🍳 Variations & Customizations

Add Crunch:

  • Sliced radishes

  • Shredded carrot

  • Toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts

Switch Herbs:

  • Try basil or Thai basil for a Southeast Asian flavor

  • Dill or parsley for a more Mediterranean spin

Make It a Meal:

  • Add a protein: chickpeas, edamame, grilled tempeh

  • Mix with vermicelli noodles for a light noodle salad

  • Add chopped avocado for healthy fats and creaminess


🌱 Nutritional Highlights

This salad isn’t just delicious—it’s functional:

  • Cucumbers: Hydrating and rich in silica for skin health

  • Tomatoes: Packed with lycopene, vitamin C, and potassium

  • Ginger: Helps fight inflammation, nausea, and boosts metabolism

  • Lime: A natural detoxifier that adds flavor without calories

  • Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fats that enhance absorption of nutrients

It’s:

  • Vegan (if maple syrup is used)

  • Gluten-free

  • Refined sugar-free

  • Low-calorie and keto-adaptable


🧊 Storage Tips

  • Best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days

  • If making ahead, store dressing separately and combine just before serving to avoid sogginess

  • Not freezer-friendly due to the water content in cucumbers and tomatoes


❓FAQs About Ginger-Lime Cucumber Tomato Salad

Can I use bottled lime juice?

Fresh lime juice is best for bright flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch—just ensure it’s 100% juice, with no added sugar or preservatives.

Is this salad spicy?

Not necessarily! The chili is optional. You can keep it mild or add as much heat as you like.

Can I use lemon instead of lime?

Yes! Lemon juice works as a substitute, though lime offers a more tropical and vibrant flavor.

Is this recipe halal?

Absolutely. There are no animal-based gelatin, alcohol, wine vinegars, or pork-based products in the dressing or ingredients.

How do I make the ginger more mild?

Use less grated ginger or soak it in lime juice for a few minutes to mellow the sharpness.

🌟 Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something light yet flavorful, this Ginger-Lime Cucumber Tomato Salad hits all the right notes. It’s crisp, zesty, and makes a vibrant side or light lunch that fits just about any dietary preference — without sacrificing taste.

No wine, no bacon, no processed junk — just whole, clean ingredients with a global-inspired flavor. Perfect for BBQs, detox days, or whenever your taste buds need a wake-up call. 🥒🍅🍋🌶️

Natalie, a cheerful home chef, smiling in her bright kitchen while holding a mixing bowl and spoon — perfect for EasyFoodToMake
Natalie

Welcome to Easy Food To Make! I’m Natalie, the recipe creator and food lover behind this site. Here, I share easy, delicious, and comforting recipes perfect for busy days and cozy nights. Whether you're in the mood for a quick dinner, homemade bread, or a sweet dessert, you're in the right place. Let’s make something tasty together!

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