Classic Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad 🥒🍅🧅
Cool, crisp, and tangy—this vintage-inspired salad is a warm-weather classic.
If you’re looking for a simple, make-ahead side that pairs well with everything from BBQ ribs to turkey wings, this Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad delivers. It’s light, flavorful, and made with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. The magic happens in the fridge—where everything soaks in the zesty vinaigrette and turns even better by the next day.
Whether served at a potluck, picnic, or alongside a hearty Southern main, this salad is a refreshingly reliable go-to.
Why I Love This Recipe
- Only 10 minutes of prep for a big batch
- Naturally gluten-free and vegan
- Gets better the longer it marinates
- Adds a cool, crisp contrast to rich or spicy dishes
- Super flexible—swap in different vinegars, fresh herbs, or even feta!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 3 medium tomatoes, cut into wedges or thick slices
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 3 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 Tbsp granulated sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Slice the Vegetables
Add the cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion to a large mixing bowl. You can use a mandoline for perfectly thin slices.
2️⃣ Make the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together:
- Vinegar
- Olive oil
- Sugar (if using)
- Salt
- Pepper
- Oregano
Taste and adjust as needed—add more sugar for sweetness or extra vinegar for tang.
3️⃣ Combine
Pour the marinade over the veggies and toss until everything is well coated.
4️⃣ Marinate
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, for the best flavor infusion.
5️⃣ Serve
Give the salad a final toss and top with chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Tips for Success
- English cucumbers are great if you want fewer seeds and thinner skins
- Try heirloom or grape tomatoes for variety and color
- Red wine vinegar adds bold flavor if you don’t have white or apple cider
- Add a few slices of fresh jalapeño for some kick
- Store in the fridge for up to 3 days—the flavors get better and better
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This salad makes a vibrant pairing with almost anything savory:
- Easy Turkey Wings for a fresh side to a Southern staple
- Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo for a cooling contrast
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas for a light, bright side
- Baked Brie Appetizer to add a fresh veggie balance to your cheese board
- Blueberry Lemonade for a refreshing sip alongside
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Easy Turkey Wings
- Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas
- Baked Brie Appetizer
- Blueberry Lemonade
Final Thoughts
This Classic Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad is a perfect example of less being more. A short ingredient list, minimal prep, and a bit of fridge time are all you need for a side that bursts with fresh flavor.
It’s the perfect warm-weather salad—light, vibrant, and endlessly versatile.
Let me know how you serve it, and don’t forget to subscribe to ChefManiac for more effortless seasonal recipes that shine.
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