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A Crisp, Refreshing Summer Staple
Looking for a light, refreshing, and herbaceous side dish to brighten your summer meals? This Lemon-Dill Cucumber Tomato Salad is the answer. It’s a vibrant mix of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette kissed with fragrant fresh dill.
Perfectly simple yet packed with flavor, it’s ideal for backyard BBQs, potlucks, or a quick weekday lunch when you want something hydrating, healthy, and satisfying.
🥗 Why You’ll Love This Lemon-Dill Salad
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✅ Ready in just 10 minutes
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✅ Naturally vegan, low-carb, and gluten-free
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✅ A beautiful way to use summer produce
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✅ Bright and herby, with zero heavy ingredients
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✅ Keeps well for meal prep and picnics
If you love Mediterranean-inspired flavors or fresh herb salads, this one’s a must-try.
🍋 Ingredients
🥒 Salad Base
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2 cups cucumbers, thinly sliced or chopped (English or Persian cucumbers work best)
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2 cups cherry or Roma tomatoes, halved or diced
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¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
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2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
🍋 Lemon-Dill Dressing
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3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
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2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
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1 teaspoon lemon zest
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1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional for tang)
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½ teaspoon garlic powder or 1 minced clove
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Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Optional: Add ½ teaspoon honey or maple syrup for subtle sweetness.
👩🍳 How to Make Lemon-Dill Cucumber Tomato Salad
Step 1: Prep the Veggies
Wash and pat dry your produce. Slice cucumbers and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the red onion. Chop the fresh dill finely.
💡 Pro Tip: Soak red onion slices in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow the sharpness if you prefer a milder bite.
Step 2: Make the Lemon-Dill Dressing
In a small jar or bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, mustard (if using), garlic, salt, and pepper. Shake or whisk until emulsified.
Step 3: Toss It All Together
In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions. Pour the dressing over and toss gently until everything is well coated. Add fresh dill and toss again just before serving.
🧂 Customize Your Salad
🔄 Ingredient Swaps
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No fresh dill? Use 1 tsp dried dill, or swap in fresh parsley or mint for a different twist.
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No red onion? Try thinly sliced shallots or scallions.
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Want it creamier? Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt to the dressing for a creamy lemon-dill version.
🥑 Boost with Add-Ins
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Crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese
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Avocado cubes for richness
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Chickpeas for protein
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Sliced radishes or bell peppers for crunch
🥒 Make it a full meal: Serve over greens or quinoa and top with grilled salmon or tofu.
📦 Storage & Meal Prep Tips
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Best served fresh, but can be made up to 24 hours in advance
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If prepping ahead, keep dressing separate and toss before serving
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Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days
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Avoid freezing—cucumbers lose their texture
🍽️ Perfect Pairings
This salad shines alongside:
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Grilled chicken, fish, or tofu
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Falafel and hummus platters
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Couscous, bulgur, or quinoa
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Roasted potatoes or pita bread
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Summer soups like gazpacho
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is best for brightness and flavor, but bottled works in a pinch—just check for added preservatives or sugar.
Is this salad low-carb or keto?
Yes! It’s low in carbs and high in fiber, making it keto and Whole30 compatible.
What kind of cucumbers should I use?
English or Persian cucumbers are ideal because they’re seedless and have thinner skins, making them great for raw salads.
Can I make this ahead for a party?
Yes! Prep everything and store the dressing separately. Toss 15–30 minutes before serving so the salad stays crisp.
What’s the best way to zest a lemon?
Use a microplane or citrus zester to remove just the yellow layer—avoid the bitter white pith underneath.
🌿 Final Thoughts: Summer Simplicity at Its Best
This Zesty Lemon-Dill Cucumber Tomato Salad is a summer essential. It’s crisp, colorful, and packed with fresh, clean flavors that pair with everything from grilled meats to Mediterranean spreads. With just a handful of seasonal ingredients, it proves that simple really is best.
Perfect for warm weather, garden parties, or quick weekday dinners, this salad is one you’ll come back to again and again.
