Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad

When the sun’s blazing and all you want is something light, cool, and refreshing, Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad steps in like a hero in a bowl. It’s crisp, juicy, and tangy—with just the right amount of zing to brighten up any meal. Whether you’re throwing a summer barbecue or need a quick side for a weeknight dinner, this salad delivers flavor and simplicity.

Why You’ll Love This Salad

It’s Light, Fresh, and Full of Flavor

There’s something magical about the way these three humble veggies—cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions—come together. The marinade ties it all in with a punch of acidity and a whisper of sweetness.

Perfect for Meal Prep or Cookouts

You can make this a day in advance, and honestly, it tastes even better after sitting overnight. It’s the kind of dish that’s always welcome on a picnic table or at a potluck.

Affordable, Healthy, and Versatile

No fancy ingredients, no breaking the bank. Just fresh produce and a few pantry staples. Plus, it’s naturally low in calories and packed with hydration.

What You’ll Need

• Cucumbers – Pick firm, smooth cucumbers without soft spots. English cucumbers are especially great since they’re seedless, have thin skin, and offer a slightly sweet crunch.
• Tomatoes – Use whatever’s fresh and juicy. Heirloom and beefsteak tomatoes bring deep flavor, but Roma or cherry tomatoes are excellent choices too. Local farmers markets usually offer the best seasonal varieties.
• Onions – Red onions provide bold flavor and color. For something milder, try sweet onions like Vidalia or even white onions.
• Vinegar – A sharp vinegar adds the essential tang. Distilled white vinegar is traditional, but red wine vinegar, white wine vinegar, or apple cider vinegar can all be used depending on your flavor preference.
• Olive Oil – Since this recipe relies on just oil and vinegar for the dressing, go for a good quality extra-virgin olive oil. Its smooth, peppery taste really shines through.
• Herbs – Dried herbs like Italian seasoning or Herbs de Provence give this salad a savory edge. For a fresh touch, add some chopped basil or parsley right before serving.

How to Make Marinated Cucumber Onion and Tomato Salad

Ingredients:

• 3 medium cucumbers, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch rounds
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 3 medium tomatoes, cut into wedges
• ½ cup vinegar (white, apple cider, or your preferred type)
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 cup water
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup oil (such as vegetable or olive oil)

Instructions:

Combine the Vegetables:
In a large bowl, mix the sliced cucumbers, onions, and tomato wedges.

Prepare the Marinade:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the vinegar, sugar, water, salt, pepper, and oil until the sugar dissolves completely.

Marinate the Salad:
Pour the marinade over the vegetable mixture. Toss gently to ensure all the vegetables are well-coated.

Chill Before Serving:
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld. For a more intense flavor, let it marinate overnight.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve this refreshing salad as a side dish at barbecues, picnics, or alongside grilled meats.
• It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over a bed of leafy greens for a light lunch.

Tips:

• Customize the Vinegar: Feel free to experiment with different types of vinegar to find your preferred tanginess.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or basil for added flavor.
• Spice It Up: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño.

FAQs About Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad

How long can marinated cucumber, onion, and tomato salad last in the fridge?
This salad will keep well in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days. In fact, it tastes even better after a day or two as the flavors have more time to develop.

Can I make this salad without sugar?
Yes, you can! If you prefer to skip the sugar, try adding a splash of honey or maple syrup for a natural touch of sweetness, or leave it out entirely if you prefer a sharper flavor.

What type of vinegar works best for this salad?
Distilled white vinegar gives that classic tang, but apple cider vinegar adds a touch of sweetness. You can also experiment with red wine or white wine vinegar for a different flavor profile.

Should I peel the cucumbers?
It’s up to you! If you’re using English or Persian cucumbers with thin skin, there’s no need to peel. But for waxier or thicker-skinned cucumbers, peeling helps improve the texture.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, radishes, or even avocado make great additions. Just keep in mind that some softer veggies like avocado should be added right before serving.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something timeless about a bowl of marinated cucumber, onion, and tomato salad. It’s cool, crisp, and packed with flavor—like summer in every bite. Whether you’re tossing it together for a backyard cookout or just want something light to snack on throughout the week, this salad delivers every time.

What makes it even better? It’s flexible. You can switch up the vinegar, swap in cherry tomatoes, or toss in some fresh herbs and still end up with something amazing. It’s a recipe you can count on—and make your own.

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