Vegan Picnic Cucumber Tomato Salad

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Author: Natalie
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Layered vegan cucumber tomato salad in mason jars on a picnic blanket, surrounded by fresh ingredients and outdoor picnic items.

🥗 Why You’ll Love This Vegan Picnic Cucumber Tomato Salad

Looking for the perfect outdoor-friendly, make-ahead vegan salad? This Vegan Picnic Cucumber Tomato Salad is crisp, hydrating, colorful, and designed to travel well—no refrigeration panic, no mayo mess. With simple ingredients, bold Mediterranean-inspired flavors, and a zesty vinaigrette, it’s ideal for picnics, potlucks, road trips, or packed lunches.

Unlike creamy coleslaws or potato salads, this recipe stays fresh and vibrant even after hours outside. It’s also free from common allergens like dairy and eggs, and of course, contains no pork, bacon, wine, or alcohol.


🧾 Ingredients List

For the Salad:

  • 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved

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

  • ¼ red onion, thinly sliced

  • ⅓ cup chopped fresh parsley or mint

  • ¼ cup sliced black or Kalamata olives (optional)

  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Zesty Vegan Dressing:

  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional for brightness)

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (check for wine-free version)

  • ½ teaspoon maple syrup (for subtle sweetness)

  • 1 small garlic clove, finely minced

  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano

🌱 All ingredients are 100% plant-based and picnic-safe (no refrigeration needed for short periods).


🍽️ How to Make Vegan Cucumber Tomato Salad

Step 1 – Prep the Veggies

Wash and dry the cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs. Dice the cucumbers into small chunks, halve the tomatoes, and slice the onion thinly. Add everything to a large mixing bowl.

Step 2 – Whisk the Dressing

In a small jar or bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, mustard, maple syrup, garlic, lemon zest, and oregano. Shake or whisk well until emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3 – Combine and Chill

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss until well coated. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes for flavors to meld, or refrigerate for later use.


🧺 How to Pack This Salad for a Picnic

Best Containers:

  • Use mason jars for easy, leak-free travel

  • Layer cucumbers first, then tomatoes, then onions and herbs

  • Keep dressing at the bottom or store separately to add just before eating

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve in biodegradable bowls, bento boxes, or eat straight from the jar

  • Bring along pita bread, hummus, or falafel for a full vegan picnic meal

Storage Tips:

  • Keeps fresh in the fridge for up to 3–4 days

  • At room temperature (outdoors), safe for up to 2 hours—ideal for short picnics


🌿 Why This Salad Works for Everyone

Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just looking for a lighter side, this salad hits all the marks:

  • Dairy-free and egg-free

  • Low-calorie but high-flavor

  • Anti-inflammatory from garlic, lemon, and olive oil

  • Hydrating and nutrient-dense (thanks to cucumbers and tomatoes)

  • No animal-based ingredients, artificial additives, or alcohol

Plus, it’s customizable and universally loved at group gatherings. It’s a dish even non-vegans will go back for seconds of!


🍴 Delicious Ways to Serve It

This salad is versatile and pairs well with just about anything picnic-appropriate. Try it with:

  • Grilled veggie skewers

  • Stuffed grape leaves (dolmas)

  • Lentil patties or vegan burgers

  • Flatbread with baba ghanoush or muhammara

  • Cold pasta salad or tabbouleh


🥗 Recipe Variations

Add Some Plant-Based Protein:

  • Cooked chickpeas or white beans

  • Cubed tofu or tempeh

  • Quinoa for extra bulk

Go Mediterranean:

  • Add capers, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes

  • Swap lemon juice for red wine vinegar (alcohol-free)

For a Spicy Kick:

  • Add a pinch of red chili flakes

  • Try thinly sliced jalapeños or a spoonful of harissa paste


❓FAQs About Vegan Picnic Cucumber Tomato Salad

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep and picnic prep. Make it up to 3 days in advance, but store dressing separately for the freshest taste and texture.

Is it safe to eat outdoors without refrigeration?

Yes, for up to 2 hours at room temperature. Keep it in a cooler or insulated lunch bag with an ice pack for longer outings.

What kind of cucumber is best?

English or Persian cucumbers are best—less watery and seedless, which helps the salad stay crisp.

Can I skip the mustard or use something else?

You can omit mustard or substitute with a splash of apple cider vinegar for tang. Just adjust seasoning to taste.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! All ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just pair with certified gluten-free breads or crackers if needed.

🌞 Final Thoughts

This Vegan Picnic Cucumber Tomato Salad is everything you want in a summer dish: fresh, fast, flavorful, and fuss-free. It’s simple enough for everyday lunches yet impressive enough to share at events. With no dairy, no pork, no alcohol, and no stress — it’s a plant-based crowd-pleaser.

Whether you’re headed to the park, prepping for a potluck, or just want something light and delicious in the fridge, this salad delivers every time.

Pack it up, chill it down, and dig in. 🧺🌱🥒🍅

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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