🥒🍅 Marinated Cucumber, Tomato & Onion Salad
Introduction
This Marinated Cucumber, Tomato & Onion Salad is a simple, refreshing side dish packed with fresh vegetables and a tangy homemade dressing!
🥒🍅🧅Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and sweet onions are tossed in a light vinegar-based marinade with herbs and seasonings. After chilling, the vegetables soak up all those delicious flavors, making every bite fresh, tangy, and incredibly satisfying.
It’s perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, picnics, or as an easy side dish for almost any meal!
—🛒 Ingredients
For the Salad
3 large cucumbers,
peeled and sliced
3 large tomatoes,
cut into bite-sized pieces
1 small white or yellow onion,
thinly slicedFor the Marinade
½ cup apple cider vinegar
¼ cup olive oil
2 tbsp water
1 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried dill
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp Italian seasoning
—👩🍳 How to Make It
1. Prepare the VegetablesWash the cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly.
Peel the cucumbers if desired, then slice them into rounds or half-moons.Cut the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces and thinly slice the onion.
2. Make the MarinadeIn a small bowl,
whisk together the apple cider vinegar,
olive oil,
water,
sugar,
salt,
black pepper,
dill, garlic powder,
and Italian seasoning.
Continue whisking until the sugar and seasonings are well combined.
3. Combine EverythingPlace the sliced cucumbers,
tomatoes, and onions into a large bowl or airtight container.
Pour the marinade evenly over the vegetables.Gently toss everything together until the vegetables are coated.
4. RefrigerateCover the bowl or container and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours.For the best flavor, let the salad marinate for 4 hours or overnight.
Give it a gentle toss once or twice while chilling so the dressing coats everything evenly.
5. ServeRemove the salad from the refrigerator and give it one final gentle toss.
Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish.
🥒🍅—🔥 Pro TipsUse Fresh VegetablesChoose firm cucumbers and ripe but slightly firm tomatoes.
They will hold their texture better while marinating.
Don’t Skip the Chilling TimeThe longer the vegetables sit in the marinade, the more flavorful they become.
Control the Onion FlavorIf you prefer a milder onion flavor, soak the sliced onion in cold water for about 10 minutes, then drain well before adding it to the salad.
Make It CreamyFor a creamy variation, add a few tablespoons of mayonnaise or sour cream just before serving.
—🌿 Easy VariationsGreek-Style VersionAdd:
Crumbled feta cheeseKalamata olivesFresh parsleyDried oreganoExtra-Herby VersionAdd fresh:
DillParsleyBasilChivesSweet & Tangy VersionAdd an extra tablespoon of sugar and use apple cider vinegar for a slightly sweeter dressing.
Spicy Version 🌶️Add:
Crushed red pepper flakesSliced jalapeñosA dash of hot sauce
—🍽️ How to ServeThis cucumber tomato salad is perfect alongside:
🍗 Grilled chicken
🥩 Steak
🍔 Burgers
🌭 Hot dogs
🍖 BBQ ribs
🌽 Grilled corn
🥔 Baked potatoes
🥪 Sandwiches
It’s also a great addition to picnics, cookouts, potlucks, and summer gatherings.—❓
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, making it ahead allows the vegetables to absorb more of the marinade.
For the best texture, enjoy it within 24 hours.How long does it last in the refrigerator?
Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy it within 2–3 days.
The cucumbers and tomatoes will become softer the longer they sit.
Can I use cherry tomatoes?
Absolutely! Cherry or grape tomatoes work very well and tend to hold their shape nicely.
Can I use red onion?
Yes.
Red onion adds a beautiful color and a slightly stronger flavor.Can I add cheese?
Definitely. Feta cheese is especially delicious with the cucumber, tomato, and tangy dressing.
Can I use a different vinegar?
Yes. White vinegar, red wine vinegar, or champagne vinegar can be used instead of apple cider vinegar.
—📋 Recipe DetailsPrep Time:
15 minutesMarinating Time: 1–2 hoursTotal Time: 1 hour 15 minutes–2 hours 15 minutes
Servings:
6Course: Side Dish / SaladCuisine:
AmericanMethod: No-Cook—
❤️ Conclusion
This Marinated Cucumber, Tomato & Onion Salad is proof that simple ingredients can make an incredibly delicious side dish! 🥒🍅🧅
Fresh cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, crisp onions, and a tangy homemade marinade come together to create a refreshing salad that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
Make it ahead, chill it well, and let those flavors come together for the best results!