This refreshing cucumber, tomato, and onion salad is perfect for warm days! It’s quick and easy to whip up, brightened by a tangy marinade of vinegar and herbs.
The crunch of the veggies really makes this salad a winner. I love to munch on it as a side dish or even for lunch—sometimes I just grab a fork and dig right in! 🥒🍅
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Use medium cucumbers for a nice crunch! If you’re in a pinch, English cucumbers are a good choice as they have fewer seeds. If you prefer a milder flavor, try using Persian cucumbers instead.
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes are best, but you can substitute canned diced tomatoes if fresh ones aren’t available. Cherry or grape tomatoes can also add sweetness and are fun to eat!
Red Onion: This onion adds a beautiful color and flavor, but if it’s too strong for your taste, use sweet onions like Vidalia or even green onions for a milder bite.
Vinegar: I prefer white vinegar for its tanginess, but apple cider vinegar adds a nice flavor twist too. You could also use red wine vinegar for a richer taste.
Sugar: This balances the acidity. For a healthier option, you can swap it with honey or a sugar substitute based on your preference.
How Do You Properly Marinate Vegetables for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating vegetables enhances their flavor and creates a delicious salad! To do it right, make sure you follow these steps:
- Combine your veggies in a large bowl so that they are evenly distributed.
- Whisk together your marinade ingredients separately, ensuring the sugar dissolves completely. This prevents any gritty texture.
- Pour the marinade over the vegetables and toss gently. This helps every piece get coated!
- Let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Longer marinating (up to 3-4 hours) intensifies the flavor, so feel free to plan ahead!
By letting the salad sit, the veggies absorb the dressing, making each bite burst with flavor! Enjoy this refreshing dish as a side or a light meal.
Easy Marinated Cucumber Tomato Onion Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 3 medium tomatoes, chopped or sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll then want to let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to an hour, or longer for more flavor. Total time including marinating can be around 1 to 4 hours, depending on your preference!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by washing the cucumbers and tomatoes. Then, using a sharp knife, thinly slice the cucumbers and red onion. Chop or slice the tomatoes to your liking. Place all the prepared vegetables into a large bowl.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a separate small bowl or jar, combine the white vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano (if using). Use a whisk or a fork to mix everything together until the sugar is dissolved and the dressing is well blended.
3. Combine and Marinate:
Pour the marinade over the sliced vegetables in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together using a spoon, making sure all the veggies are coated with the dressing. This is where the magic starts!
4. Let It Chill:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the salad to marinate for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour; however, letting it sit for 3-4 hours will pack in even more flavor. Yum!
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Before serving, give the salad a quick stir. If you’d like, garnish with fresh parsley or dill for a pop of color and extra flavor. This salad is best enjoyed chilled, making it a perfect side dish for any meal!
Enjoy your light, tangy, and easy marinated cucumber tomato onion salad!
Can I Use Different Types of Onions?
Absolutely! While red onions add a nice color and flavor, you can easily substitute them with sweet onions like Vidalia or even use green onions for a milder taste. Each type adds its unique twist to the salad.
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can! This salad is perfect for meal prep. Just marinate it in the fridge for up to 4 hours. If you need to prepare it a day in advance, it’ll only get better as the flavors meld. Just give it a quick stir before serving!
What Can I Serve This Salad With?
This marinated salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fish, or as part of a picnic spread. It’s also delicious served alongside sandwiches or with a BBQ meal. Feel free to get creative with your pairings!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just keep in mind that the vegetables will continue to soften in the marinade, but they’ll still taste great!
