Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad

Description

Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad is a light, refreshing, and flavorful side dish made with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, sweet onions, and a tangy vinegar-based marinade. As the vegetables soak in the dressing, they absorb the sweet and savory flavors, creating a delicious salad that’s perfect for summer meals, barbecues, picnics, or everyday dinners.

This classic salad is inexpensive, easy to prepare, and tastes even better after a few hours of refrigeration.

Recipe Information

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Marinating Time: 1–4 hours
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes–4 hours 15 minutes
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Cuisine: American
• Course: Side dish

Servings

Makes 6 servings

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 3 medium tomatoes, cut into wedges
• 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

For the Marinade

• ½ cup white vinegar
• ¼ cup water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

• Wash the cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly.
• Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds.
• Cut the tomatoes into wedges.
• Thinly slice the onion.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a small bowl, combine:

• White vinegar
• Water
• Olive oil
• Sugar
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Oregano

Whisk until the sugar dissolves.

Step 3: Combine Everything

• Place the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions in a large bowl.
• Pour the marinade over the vegetables.
• Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Refrigerate

• Cover the bowl.
• Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
• Stir once or twice during marination.

Step 5: Serve

• Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired.
• Serve chilled.

Recipe Notes

• Seedless cucumbers work best because they contain less water.
• Red onions provide a milder flavor than white onions.
• The salad becomes more flavorful after several hours in the refrigerator.
• Tomatoes release additional juices during marination, creating extra dressing.

Helpful Tips

Keep the Cucumbers Crisp

Sprinkle cucumber slices with a little salt and let them sit for 15 minutes before preparing the salad. Pat them dry before mixing.

Don’t Over-Marinate

Avoid marinating for more than 24 hours because the vegetables may become soft.

Adjust the Sweetness

Add more sugar for a sweeter dressing or reduce it for a more tangy flavor.

Add Fresh Herbs

Fresh dill, basil, mint, or parsley can enhance the flavor.

Variations

Mediterranean Version

Add:

• Feta cheese
• Kalamata olives
• Fresh basil

Creamy Version

Stir in:

• ¼ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup Greek yogurt

Spicy Version

Add:

• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Jalapeño slices

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients used.

Health Benefits

Cucumbers

• High in water content
• Supports hydration
• Low in calories
• Contains antioxidants

Tomatoes

• Rich in lycopene
• Supports heart health
• Provides vitamin C and potassium

Onions

• Contain antioxidants and plant compounds
• May support immune function
• Provide dietary fiber

Vinegar

• Adds flavor without many calories
• May help support healthy digestion

Olive Oil

• Provides healthy monounsaturated fats
• Supports cardiovascular health

Questions and Answers

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?

A: Yes. In fact, it’s best when prepared 4–12 hours in advance.

Q: How long will the salad last?

A: It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Q: Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar?

A: Yes. Apple cider vinegar adds a slightly sweeter and fruitier flavor.

Q: Can I freeze this salad?

A: No. Freezing changes the texture of the vegetables and makes them watery.

Q: Which cucumbers work best?

A: English cucumbers and Persian cucumbers are excellent choices because they contain fewer seeds and have thinner skins.

Q: Can I reduce the sodium?

A: Yes. Simply reduce the amount of salt or replace it with a low-sodium seasoning blend.

Storage Instructions

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep refrigerated.
• Stir before serving.
• Consume within 3 days for the best flavor and texture.