Get ready to delight your palate with a classic Egyptian side: Egyptian Tomato & Cucumber Salad, commonly called Salata Baladi. Bright, simple ingredients combine to create a refreshing salad that works as a light meal, a side dish, or a fresh topping for grilled proteins.
Ripe tomatoes pair with crisp cucumbers and plenty of fresh herbs and seasonings to deliver a vibrant, sunny flavor in every bite.
This salad is easy to prepare and naturally adaptable, making it a handy recipe to keep in your rotation. Whether you serve it alongside kebabs, falafel, rice dishes, or enjoy it on its own, Salata Baladi is satisfying, healthy, and quick to assemble.
Why we love Egyptian Cucumber & Tomato Salad
This salad feels like a cool breeze on a warm day — crisp, light, and full of fresh flavor. The cucumbers provide a pleasant crunch while the tomatoes add juicy sweetness, and fresh parsley brightens the whole bowl.
It’s also incredibly versatile and diet-friendly: naturally gluten-free and vegan, and easy to modify for other preferences. The colorful presentation and clean flavors make it a crowd-pleaser for family meals and casual gatherings.
Is Egyptian Cucumber & Tomato Salad healthy?
Yes. This salad is a nutritious choice: cucumbers and tomatoes are high in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Tomatoes are a rich source of lycopene, and the salad contains no heavy, high-fat dressings or added sugars. It’s a light, nutrient-dense option that supports a balanced diet.
What does this salad taste like?
The dressing brings a pleasant tang from vinegar and lime juice that balances the mild sweetness of the tomatoes and the cool freshness of cucumbers. Dried mint adds a sweet, cooling note that lingers on the palate and pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
How to make Egyptian Tomato & Cucumber Salad
- Dice cucumbers and tomatoes into small, even pieces.
- In a large bowl combine the diced tomatoes, cucumbers, chopped Italian flat‑leaf parsley, vinegar, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Add chopped red onion and/or jalapeño if using.
- Rub dried mint between your palms to release its aroma, then add to the bowl.
- Toss gently until everything is evenly coated and combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, then chill briefly or serve immediately.
How to store leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within three days. Freezing is not recommended because cucumbers and tomatoes release water and lose their texture when frozen.
Common Questions about Egyptian Cucumber and Tomato Salad
Yes. The classic salad is simple, but you can add diced bell pepper, radishes, or a sprinkle of feta for variety.
Absolutely. Parsley and mint are traditional, but cilantro or other fresh herbs can work well too.
To preserve crispness, chop vegetables ahead but add the dressing and mint just before serving.
It pairs nicely with grilled meats, kebabs, falafel, or rice dishes, and also complements many Mediterranean and Middle Eastern meals.
More Simple Salad Recipes You’ll Love
Try these other fresh, easy salads to add variety to your meals:
- Greek Orzo Pasta Salad — a hearty, flavorful side for weeknights and gatherings.
- Vegan Roasted Eggplant Salad — smoky eggplant with a creamy tahini dressing.
- Southwest Salad — bold flavors and plant-based protein for a satisfying bowl.
- Green Goddess Salad — zesty, herb-forward, and ideal for summer.
Egyptian Cucumber & Tomato Salad (Salata Baladi)
4 servings
20 mins
20 mins
Ingredients
- 2 medium English cucumbers
- 4 small on-the-vine tomatoes
- 1 bunch fresh Italian parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon vinegar
- Juice of 1/2 a lime
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper, or to taste
- 1 tablespoon dried mint (or substitute fresh mint)
- Optional: 1 small red onion and/or 1 seeded jalapeño, chopped
Instructions
- Dice the cucumbers and tomatoes into small pieces.
- Combine the diced tomatoes, cucumbers, chopped parsley, vinegar, lime juice, optional onion and jalapeño, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Rub the dried mint between your palms to release its oils, then add it to the salad.
- Toss until everything is well combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, then serve chilled or at room temperature.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is an approximation.
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