Refreshing Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad
If there’s one side dish I can never get enough of, it’s a light, crisp, and tangy cucumber, onion, and tomato salad. It’s simple, refreshing, and packed with fresh flavors, making it the perfect complement to almost any meal.
Whether it’s a summer BBQ, a cozy weeknight dinner, or just a quick snack, this salad always hits the spot. The best part? It requires minimal ingredients and comes together in minutes! The key to its irresistible taste is the tangy homemade marinade, which enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and cucumbers while giving a little zing to the onions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Simple & Fresh – Made with basic, wholesome ingredients.
✔️ Perfectly Balanced Flavors – A mix of sweet, tangy, and savory goodness.
✔️ Quick & Easy – Takes just 10 minutes to prepare.
✔️ Great for Meal Prep – Tastes even better after marinating in the fridge!
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Serves 4-6 | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Chill Time: 30 minutes)
- 2 cucumbers, sliced (English cucumbers work best)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced (red or white onion)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup vinegar (white or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How to Make Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad
1. Prepare the Vegetables
- Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds. If using regular cucumbers, you may want to peel them first for a smoother texture.
- Slice the onion thinly for a mild crunch.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes for a juicy burst of flavor.
2. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together:
✅ Olive oil
✅ Vinegar (white vinegar for a sharper taste, apple cider for a hint of sweetness)
✅ Sugar
✅ Salt & pepper to taste
This simple dressing enhances the natural flavors of the veggies while giving them a bright, tangy kick.
3. Combine Everything
- In a large mixing bowl, add the cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
4. Let It Chill
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. For an even more flavorful salad, marinate for 2 hours or overnight.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Just before serving, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra freshness.
Pro Tips for the Best Salad
- Use Seedless Cucumbers – English or Persian cucumbers are ideal since they have fewer seeds and a crunchier texture.
- Soak Onions for a Milder Taste – If raw onions are too sharp for you, soak them in cold water for 10 minutesbefore adding them to the salad.
- Let It Marinate Longer – The longer it sits, the better the flavors develop! If you can, let it chill for at least 2 hours.
- Make It Creamy – Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for a creamy variation.
Variations & Add-Ons
Want to switch things up? Here are some fun ways to customize this salad:
- Add Avocado 🥑 – A creamy addition that pairs beautifully with the acidity of the dressing.
- Sprinkle Feta Cheese 🧀 – A salty, tangy twist that takes this salad to another level.
- Toss in Chickpeas 🌱 – For extra protein and texture.
- Use Balsamic Vinegar 🍷 – Adds depth and a touch of natural sweetness.
- Mix in Fresh Herbs 🌿 – Basil, dill, or cilantro can add a unique flavor.
What to Serve with This Salad
This versatile salad pairs well with many dishes! Try serving it alongside:
🔥 Grilled Chicken or Steak – The fresh flavors complement smoky, grilled meats.
🍚 Rice or Quinoa Bowls – A great side to balance out hearty grains.
🥪 Sandwiches & Wraps – Perfect for picnics or light lunches.
🐟 Seafood Dishes – The tangy marinade enhances salmon, shrimp, or tilapia.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! This salad gets even better the longer it sits. Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance, but wait to add fresh herbs until just before serving.
Q: How long does it last in the fridge?
A: It stays fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The cucumbers may soften slightly, but the flavors will be even more intense.
Q: Can I use different types of vinegar?
A: Absolutely! White vinegar gives a sharp tang, while apple cider vinegar adds a touch of sweetness. Red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar also work great.
Q: Is this salad keto-friendly?
A: Yes! Simply omit the sugar, and you have a delicious low-carb, keto-friendly side dish.
Why You Need to Try This Salad
This Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad is one of those recipes that you’ll keep coming back to. It’s light, fresh, and bursting with flavor—the perfect side dish for any meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick summer salad or an easy meal prep option, this recipe is a must-try.
So grab some fresh veggies, whip up this salad, and let the marinating magic happen! If you give this recipe a try, let me know how it turned out—I’d love to hear your favorite add-ins! Happy eating!
Easy Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad: A Light and Zesty Delight
Ingredients
- 2 medium cucumbers, sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the sugar, white vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper until the sugar is dissolved.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat.
- Let the salad marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve chilled.
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