This refreshing Marinated Cucumbers, Onions & Tomatoes salad is one of those simple recipes that can disappear quickly at a barbecue, picnic, or family dinner. Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and sharp red onion are combined with a sweet-and-tangy homemade marinade for a flavorful side dish that takes only a few minutes to prepare.
Ingredients
3 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
3 large tomatoes, chopped
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup apple cider vinegar
¼ cup olive oil
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
½ teaspoon black pepper
Fresh herbs, optional
Instructions
Start by washing the cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds and cut the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the red onion so that it mixes easily with the other vegetables.
In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Continue mixing until the sugar is mostly dissolved and the marinade is well combined.
Place the cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion in a large bowl. Pour the marinade over the vegetables and gently toss everything together until evenly coated.
For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This gives the vegetables time to absorb the sweet and tangy marinade.
Easy Ways to Customize It
This recipe is very easy to adapt. Fresh dill, parsley, or basil can add another layer of flavor. If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, a small amount of minced garlic can also be added to the marinade.
For a slightly spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also adjust the amount of sugar or vinegar depending on whether you prefer a sweeter or more tangy salad.
Perfect for Barbecues and Summer Meals
This salad makes an excellent side dish for grilled meats, burgers, sandwiches, roasted chicken, or baked potatoes. Its fresh vegetables and bright marinade provide a refreshing contrast to richer main dishes.
It is also convenient when you’re preparing food for a gathering because the vegetables can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.
Helpful Tips
Choose firm cucumbers and ripe but relatively firm tomatoes for the best texture. If your cucumbers contain a lot of water, you can lightly salt them and let them sit for a few minutes before draining excess liquid.
For an even more flavorful result, prepare the salad ahead of time and allow it to chill before serving. Just remember that tomatoes and cucumbers naturally release water as they sit, so the salad is best enjoyed while the vegetables are still crisp.
Final Thoughts
Marinated Cucumbers, Onions & Tomatoes proves that you don’t need complicated ingredients to make a delicious side dish. With just a handful of everyday ingredients and a simple homemade marinade, you can create a colorful, refreshing salad that works beautifully for both everyday meals and outdoor gatherings.
