A Refreshing Salad for Every Occasion
There’s something truly refreshing and satisfying about a bowl of Fresh Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes. Whether you’re looking for a cool summer side dish, a light accompaniment to grilled meats, or a healthy snack, this crisp, tangy salad is the perfect choice.
With crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and flavorful onions, this dish is packed with vibrant colors, textures, and bold flavors. The marinade, made with vinegar, sugar, and spices, enhances the vegetables, giving them an irresistible sweet and tangy taste. Plus, it’s quick to make, incredibly versatile, and great for meal prep!
Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe and explore the best ways to prepare, customize, and serve it.
Why You’ll Love Fresh Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
✔ Light and Refreshing
This salad is cool and hydrating, making it perfect for warm weather and outdoor meals.
✔ Easy to Make
With only a few ingredients and simple steps, you can have this dish ready in no time.
✔ Healthy and Nutritious
Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, this salad is a nutrient-rich addition to any meal.
✔ Perfect for Meal Prep
The longer the vegetables marinate, the better they taste—ideal for making ahead of time.
✔ Versatile and Customizable
You can adjust the marinade, swap vegetables, or add herbs to create different flavor profiles.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This simple yet flavorful recipe requires only a handful of fresh ingredients.
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Water | 1 cup |
| Distilled white vinegar | ½ cup |
| Vegetable oil | ¼ cup |
| Sugar | ¼ cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| Freshly ground black pepper | To taste |
| Cucumbers, peeled and sliced | 3 |
| Tomatoes, cut into wedges | 3 |
| Onion, sliced into rings | 1 |
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Marinated Salad
1. Prepare the Marinade
- In a large mixing bowl, combine water, vinegar, vegetable oil, and sugar.
- Stir until the sugar completely dissolves.
- Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
2. Slice the Vegetables
- Peel and slice the cucumbers into ¼-inch thick pieces.
- Cut the tomatoes into wedges, removing excess seeds.
- Slice the onion into rings and separate them.
3. Combine the Ingredients
- Add the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions to the bowl with the marinade.
- Toss gently to coat the vegetables evenly, being careful not to crush the tomatoes.
4. Marinate the Salad
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight for the best flavor).
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Give the salad a final gentle toss before serving.
- Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy as a side dish, appetizer, or snack.
Tips for Making the Best Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients
- Fresh, ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and firm onions make a big difference in taste.
Let It Marinate Longer
- While 2 hours is enough, letting it sit overnight will deepen the flavors.
Customize the Marinade
- For extra tang: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice.
- For sweetness: Use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar.
- For a richer taste: Swap vegetable oil for olive oil.
Experiment with Different Add-Ins
- Fresh herbs: Try dill, parsley, or basil for added freshness.
- Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños.
- Extra crunch: Toss in bell peppers or radishes.
Serve It Cold for Maximum Refreshment
- This salad is best served chilled—the cold temperature enhances its crisp texture and vibrant taste.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~120 kcal |
| Protein | 1g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Nutritional values may vary based on ingredients used.
Serving Suggestions
Best Ways to Enjoy This Salad
- As a Side Dish – Pairs perfectly with grilled meats, seafood, or roasted vegetables.
- On Sandwiches or Burgers – Adds a tangy crunch to any sandwich.
- With Rice and Beans – Complements Filipino, Mediterranean, or Mexican cuisine.
- Topped with Feta or Mozzarella – A delicious twist with crumbled feta or fresh mozzarella slices.
Pair It With These Dishes
- Grilled Chicken or Steak – The salad’s acidity balances rich, savory meats.
- BBQ Ribs or Pulled Pork – A perfect contrast to smoky, hearty flavors.
- Fried or Grilled Fish – The crisp vegetables complement light, flaky fish.
How to Store Leftovers
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended—freezing changes the texture of the vegetables.
Reheating and Refreshing
- No need to reheat! Simply stir before serving.
- If the flavors seem dull, add a splash of vinegar or fresh herbs before eating.
Common Variations of Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
Southern-Style Marinated Salad
- Uses apple cider vinegar, red onions, and black pepper for a sweet and tangy Southern twist.
Mediterranean-Inspired Version
- Adds olives, feta cheese, and oregano for a Greek-inspired flavor.
Asian-Inspired Variation
- Uses rice vinegar, sesame oil, and soy sauce for an umami-packed salad.
Italian-Style Marinated Salad
- Includes fresh basil, balsamic vinegar, and shaved parmesan.
FAQs About Fresh Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it tastes better the next day after marinating overnight.
2. What type of cucumbers work best?
English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers are great choices because they have fewer seeds and thinner skin.
3. Can I use red onions instead of yellow onions?
Absolutely! Red onions add a slightly milder and sweeter taste.
4. Can I use olive oil instead of vegetable oil?
Yes! Olive oil adds a richer, more Mediterranean flavor.
5. How do I keep cucumbers from getting soggy?
Slice them right before marinating to keep them crisp.
6. What can I use instead of sugar?
You can substitute honey, agave, or a sugar-free sweetener.
Final Thoughts: Try This Easy Marinated Salad Today!
This Fresh Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes recipe is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish that fits any meal. Whether you serve it as a side, snack, or light meal, its crisp texture and bold flavors will keep you coming back for more.
So why wait? Gather your ingredients and try this refreshing salad today!
Print
Fresh Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes: A Crisp and Tangy Delight
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Fresh Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes salad is a crisp, tangy, and refreshing dish that’s perfect as a side or light meal. With a simple vinegar-based marinade, this salad enhances the natural flavors of fresh cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and onions. It’s quick to prepare, healthy, and ideal for warm-weather meals!
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup distilled white vinegar
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- ¼ cup sugar
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 cucumbers, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch pieces
- 3 tomatoes, cut into wedges
- 1 onion, sliced into rings
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade – In a large bowl, whisk together water, vinegar, vegetable oil, and sugar until the sugar dissolves. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Slice the Vegetables – Peel and slice the cucumbers into ¼-inch rounds. Cut the tomatoes into wedges and slice the onion into rings.
- Combine the Ingredients – Add the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions to the bowl with the marinade. Gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Marinate the Salad – Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for enhanced flavor).
- Serve & Enjoy – Toss the salad again before serving and enjoy as a side dish or refreshing snack!
Notes
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Customization: Add fresh herbs like dill, basil, or parsley for extra flavor.
- Spicy Variation: Toss in sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for heat.
- Sugar Alternatives: Use honey or agave as a natural sweetener option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- 2 hours:
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American