Cucumber Tomato Salad (with a Mexican Twist)

By Michele Feuerborn | Home cook & recipe developer with 20+ years of experience

Bright, crisp, and bursting with Tex-Mex flavor, this Cucumber Tomato Salad is my favorite way to celebrate summer's freshest produce!

Juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and zesty red onions get tossed in a tangy red wine vinaigrette, then finished with Mexican oregano, cilantro, and a shower of crumbly cotija cheese for the ultimate Mexican twist.

It's a 15-minute side dish that always disappears at cookouts, weeknight dinners, or lazy weekend lunches.

*Nutrition information, including calories, are an estimate.

Why Is Cucumber Tomato Salad So Popular?

As a lifelong Texan and home cook with 20+ years of experience, I can tell you-Cucumber Tomato Salad never goes out of style! It's hydrating, refreshing, and highlights just-picked produce like nothing else. Plus, it's endlessly versatile and pairs with everything from BBQ to tacos.

This Mexican-inspired version turns a classic into something new, thanks to a few simple flavor upgrades.

Will This Cucumber Tomato Salad Fit Into My Healthy Diet Plan?

Absolutely!

• Low-Carb & Keto: Veggies only, no added sugar.
• Vegetarian: 100% meat-free and protein-rich with cotija.
• Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free (just check your cheese label).
• Dairy-Free Option: Omit cotija or use a vegan cheese.
• Mediterranean Diet: Fresh produce and healthy olive oil fit right in.

At just 86 calories per serving, you can enjoy a generous helping without worry.

What Gives This Salad Its Mexican Twist?

Three simple swaps bring a south-of-the-border spin:

• Cotija Cheese: Salty, crumbly, and a little tangy-like Mexican feta.
• Fresh Cilantro: For that signature, fresh herby note.
• Mexican Oregano: More citrusy than Mediterranean oregano, it adds a savory pop.

The result? A salad that's fresh, tangy, a little creamy, and full of personality!

Ingredients You'll Need

• Cucumbers: English or Persian for crunch and thin skin.
• Tomatoes: Roma, grape, or cherry for juiciness and color.
• Red Onion: Thinly sliced for mild bite.
• Cotija Cheese: Crumbled (or swap feta if needed).
• Cilantro: Roughly chopped, leaves only.
• Mexican Oregano: Just a pinch for depth.
• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin for best flavor.
• Red Wine Vinegar: For tang (or lime juice for more zip).
• Salt & Pepper: Season to taste.

Pro Tip: Taste your tomatoes and cucumbers before dressing; if they're super sweet, add an extra splash of vinegar or lime juice.

How To Make the Red Wine Vinaigrette

• Whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, pepper, and Mexican oregano in a small bowl or jar.
• Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

I love shaking it all up in a mason jar for easy mixing and pouring!

Step-by-Step: How To Make Cucumber Tomato Salad

1. Slice the Cucumbers: Thin half-moons or rounds.
2. Cut the Tomatoes: Halve cherry/grape tomatoes, or dice Romas.
3. Slice the Red Onion: As thinly as possible (soak in ice water if you want it milder).
4. Chop Cilantro: Leaves only, roughly chopped.
5. Combine Veggies: Add cucumbers, tomatoes, onion, and cilantro to a big bowl.
6. Add Vinaigrette: Pour dressing over and toss gently to coat.
7. Finish with Cotija: Sprinkle crumbled cheese over the top just before serving.
8. Garnish: Extra cilantro or a pinch more oregano, if desired.

That's it-super fresh, full of crunch, and ready in 15 minutes!

Tips for Perfect Cucumber Tomato Salad

Drawing from years of home recipe testing, here's what works:

• Choose the freshest produce: Ripe but firm veggies hold up best.
• Dress just before serving: Keeps everything crisp and vibrant.
• Prep ahead tip: Chop veggies a few hours ahead and store; add dressing/cheese right before eating.
• Like it spicier? Add diced jalapeño or serrano.
• Vegan version: Skip the cheese or use your favorite vegan alternative.

What Are Some Other Variations?

• Mediterranean: Add feta, Kalamata olives, and swap cilantro for fresh dill.
• Italian: Use mozzarella balls, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic.
• Greek: Add Homemade Greek Seasoning, feta, olives, and a squeeze of lemon.
• Tex-Mex Kick: Toss in jalapeños or swap red wine vinegar for lime juice.

Don't be afraid to make it your own-this salad is endlessly adaptable!

What Do I Serve With Cucumber Tomato Salad?

This is the MVP of summer sides:

• Perfect with tacos: Try my Slow Cooker Adobo Shredded Chicken Tacos or Chicken Enchiladas Rancheras for a complete Tex-Mex meal!
• Great with grilled meats: Grilled Chicken Breast, steak, shrimp-you name it.
• BBQ favorite: Serve with BBQ Chicken Legs. It balances out all that smoky goodness.
• Potlucks or picnics: Travels well and is always a hit.

For more summer sides, check out my Mexican Street Corn Salad or Marinated Green Bean Salad.

When Do I Serve This Salad?

Serve this cool summer salad anytime!

• Backyard BBQs
• Weeknight dinners
• Picnics and potlucks
• Meal prep (store veggies and dressing separately for best results)

Real Reader Reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"I made this for a family barbecue and it was gone in seconds! The cotija and cilantro make it so fresh and different." - Amy

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Love the Mexican flavors-definitely adding this to my regular summer salad rotation!" - Luis