Marinated Cucumber Onion and Tomato Salad
Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad
This marinated cucumber, onion, and tomato salad is a crisp, tangy side dish that goes with absolutely everything — grilled chicken, steaks, burgers, BBQ, sandwiches, or just a bowl of rice. It’s ready in 10 minutes and gets better the longer it sits in the fridge. The vinegar dressing is light, bright, and brings out the best in simple summer vegetables.
Why This Salad Is Essential
- 10 minutes — chop, toss, done
- Gets better over time — flavors deepen in the fridge
- Goes with everything — the universal summer side
- Light and refreshing — no heavy dressing
Ingredients
- 2 English cucumbers (or 4 regular), sliced thin
- 3 ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced into rings
- ½ cup (120ml) white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup (60ml) water
- 2 tbsp sugar (or honey)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped
How to Make It
Step 1 — Slice cucumbers, cut tomatoes into wedges, slice red onion into thin rings. Place in a large bowl.
Step 2 — Whisk together vinegar, water, sugar, olive oil, salt, and pepper until sugar dissolves.
Step 3 — Pour dressing over vegetables. Toss gently. Add fresh dill or parsley.
Step 4 — Serve immediately or refrigerate 30 minutes to 24 hours for deeper flavor. Toss again before serving.
Tips
- English cucumbers are best — fewer seeds and no need to peel
- Use ripe, firm tomatoes — mushy tomatoes turn the dressing watery
- Soak the onion in cold water for 5 minutes if you find raw red onion too sharp
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does marinated cucumber salad last?
3–4 days refrigerated. The cucumbers soften slightly after day 2 but still taste great. Tomatoes hold up for about 2 days.
Can I use regular cucumbers?
Yes — peel them and scoop out the seeds with a spoon first. Seeds make the salad watery.
What vinegar works best?
White vinegar for a clean, tangy taste. Apple cider vinegar for a milder, slightly sweet flavor. Rice vinegar for an Asian-inspired twist.
Can I add other vegetables?
Bell peppers, olives, avocado (add just before serving), or fresh mozzarella all work. Green onions instead of red onion for milder flavor.
Can I make this without sugar?
Yes — the sugar balances the vinegar’s acidity. Replace with honey, agave, or skip entirely for a sharper salad.
What pairs best with this salad?
Grilled meats (steak, chicken, fish), burgers, BBQ ribs, pulled pork, gyros, or as a topping for grain bowls.
Italian dressing version?
Replace the homemade dressing with ½ cup Italian dressing for a shortcut that still tastes great.
Can I add cheese?
Crumbled feta is the classic upgrade. Fresh mozzarella pearls work beautifully too.
You Might Also Like
- Delicious Keto Crunchwraps Recipe for Guilt-Free Indulgence
- Easy Make-Ahead Chicken Enchiladas Freezer Meal Prep
- Ricotta Stuffed Zucchini Boats (Easy Baked Recipe)
Discover the Best Marinated Cucumbers Onions and Tomatoes Recipe
A refreshing and flavorful summer salad featuring tangy cucumbers, zesty onions, and juicy tomatoes marinated in a delicious dressing. This dish is perfect for hot summer days, family gatherings, or as a healthy side dish year-round.
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 large tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the salad a final toss and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Enjoy your fresh and flavorful Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes!
