This fresh and colorful dish combines crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and zesty onions, all marinated in a simple dressing. It’s like a salad party on a plate!
Perfect for summer gatherings, this light side dish is great with grilled meals. I whip it up in a flash and love how it brings a burst of flavor to any meal. Yum! 🍅🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: I recommend English cucumbers because they are less seedy and have a thin skin, making them perfect for salads. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers work too. Just peel them if the skin is thick or waxy.
Tomatoes: Use ripe, fresh tomatoes for the best flavor. I often go for vine-ripened or heirloom varieties, but cherry or grape tomatoes can be fun, too! Feel free to mix types for added color.
Red Onion: Red onions add a nice zing and color here, but you could swap them for sweet onions or even scallions if you prefer a milder taste. Just keep the slices thin!
Vinegar: White vinegar is great for a clean taste, but apple cider vinegar adds a bit of sweetness. You could also use balsamic vinegar if you’re after a richer flavor profile.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for the dressing, but any light oil will work. If you want a flavor boost, try flavored oils like garlic or herb oils.
How Do I Make Sure My Vegetables Stay Crunchy?
To keep your cucumbers and onions crisp, slice them thinly but not too thin — about 1/8 inch works well. If you have extra time, sprinkle salt on the cucumbers and let them sit for about 10-15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Rinse and pat dry before combining with the other ingredients.
- Combine cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions in a bowl.
- Mix the marinade ingredients until the sugar dissolves, then toss them all together.
- Refrigerate for at least an hour. The cooling time helps everything stay crisp and refreshing!
Easy Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables:
- 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 3 medium tomatoes, cut into wedges or bite-sized pieces
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley or dill (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, and then you’ll want to refrigerate it for at least 1 hour. For the best flavor, letting it marinate for 3-4 hours or overnight is ideal. So, total time will be about 1 hour to 4 hours, depending on your preference!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Vegetables:
In a large bowl, add the thinly sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion. Give them a gentle toss to mix them together.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, whisk together the white vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano (if using). Mix until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved. This will be the flavorful dressing for your salad.
3. Mix Everything Together:
Pour the marinade over the combined vegetables in the larger bowl. Toss gently to coat all the veggies evenly with the dressing. You want them well covered without squishing them!
4. Chill in the Fridge:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer everything to a sealed container. Place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you have the time, 3-4 hours or overnight will make the flavors even better.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss again. If you’d like, garnish it with some fresh parsley or dill for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve chilled or at room temperature as a delightful side dish.
Enjoy your delicious Easy Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad!
FAQ
Can I Use Different Types of Onions?
Absolutely! While red onions add a nice color and sharpness, you can substitute them with sweet onions for a milder flavor or green onions for a fresh twist. Just slice them thinly for even flavor distribution.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad will continue to marinate and get tastier, but the veggies may soften a bit over time, so try to enjoy them while they’re still crisp!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for make-ahead! You can prepare it a day in advance. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving, as the marinade will settle. The flavors will continue to deepen as it sits in the fridge!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! You can add bell peppers, carrots, or even radishes for an extra crunch. Just be sure to slice them thinly so they pick up the marinade well!
