The Best Tomato Cucumber Kachumber Salad You’ll Want on Repeat

When it comes to adding a refreshing crunch to your meal, few dishes can rival the vibrant simplicity of Kachumber Salad. This Indian classic is light, zesty, and packed with fresh veggies and herbs. Whether you’re looking to balance a spicy curry or add a quick healthy side to your lunch, Tomato Cucumber Kachumber delivers flavor, color, and nutrition—all in one bowl.

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What is Kachumber Salad?

Kachumber Salad is a traditional Indian side dish made with a combination of chopped raw vegetables, typically tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and herbs. It’s often seasoned with lemon juice, salt, and Indian spices like chaat masala and cumin for a burst of tangy, earthy flavor. Think of it as India’s answer to a fresh garden salad—but with a bold twist!

Unlike creamy or oily dressings, Kachumber uses citrus and dry spices to keep it light, making it the perfect accompaniment to rich Indian curries or grilled meats.

Why You’ll Love It

There’s so much to adore about this simple salad:

• Burst of Freshness – Every bite is crisp, cool, and refreshing.
• Naturally Vegan & Gluten-Free – Fits seamlessly into most dietary lifestyles.
• Quick & Easy – Comes together in under 10 minutes with zero cooking required.
• Pairs With Everything – Complements spicy dishes, grilled mains, or can even stand alone as a snack.
• Nutrient-Rich – Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidant-rich ingredients.

Kachumber Salad Variations

One of the best parts about Kachumber is its versatility. Here are a few fun ways to make it your own:

• Add Avocado – For a creamy texture and healthy fats.
• Swap Herbs – Use parsley or dill if you don’t have mint or cilantro.
• Fruit Twist – Mix in diced mango or pomegranate seeds for a sweet contrast.
• Yogurt Version – Add a spoonful of plain yogurt to make it a cooling raita-style salad.
• Extra Crunch – Top with roasted peanuts or sev (crispy Indian noodles) right before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Kachumber Salad is as flexible as it is flavorful. Here’s how you can enjoy it:

• Side Dish – Serve alongside spicy Indian curries like butter chicken, dal, or tikka masala.
• BBQ Companion – Works beautifully with grilled meats, fish, or kebabs.
• Wrap Filler – Add to flatbreads or pita wraps for an extra layer of crunch.
• Light Lunch – Enjoy as a refreshing mid-day snack or light meal on a hot day.

Ingredients

(Yield 4 servings)

• 1 cup halved grape tomatoes
• 1 cup diced cucumber
• ½ cup chopped green onions
• ¼ cup carrots, shredded
• 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional)
• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
• 1/8 tablespoon red chili powder (for garnish)
• ¼ teaspoon chaat masala (optional)
• ½ teaspoon roasted cumin powder
• Salt and ground black pepper, to taste

How to Make Kachumber Salad

1. Prep the Vegetables: Dice the cucumbers, halve the tomatoes, chop the green onions, grate the carrots, and finely chop the green chili if using.
2. Combine in a Bowl: In a large mixing bowl, toss together all the vegetables along with the chopped cilantro and mint.
3. Add Seasonings: Sprinkle in roasted cumin powder, chaat masala (if using), salt, and black pepper.
4. Dress It Up: Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the salad and gently mix everything together.
5. Garnish & Serve: Finish with a pinch of red chili powder on top for a pop of color and a hint of heat.

Serve immediately for the freshest taste and crunch!

Make Ahead & Storage Tips

• Make Ahead: You can chop the veggies and mix the dry spices ahead of time. Combine everything just before serving to retain the crunch.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh as the vegetables may release water over time.

Nutrition per Serving

Estimated values for 1 of 4 servings:

• Calories: 27kcal
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0.2g
• Saturated Fat: 0.04g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 189mg
• Potassium: 170mg
• Calcium: 19mg
• Iron: 0.4mg

Note: Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Final Thoughts

• Tomato Cucumber Kachumber is proof that a handful of humble ingredients can come together to create something truly vibrant and delicious. It’s crisp, colorful, and packed with bright flavors that complement both bold Indian dishes and everyday meals. Whether you’re hosting a feast or keeping things light, this easy salad is a must-try recipe that you’ll come back to all year round.
• Don’t forget to check out our recommended kitchen tools and recipes on our website, myhomewish.com, to streamline prep and elevate your cooking game.