There’s nothing quite like a refreshing, tangy, and vibrant salad to complement any meal, especially when the weather is warm. This Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes dish is a perfect blend of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and zesty red onions, all infused with a flavorful marinade. It’s simple to prepare, incredibly fresh, and packed with bold flavors that get even better as they sit.
A Refreshing and Flavorful Marinated Salad
This salad is more than just a side dish; it’s a burst of freshness in every bite. The crunch of the cucumbers, the slight bite from the red onion, and the sweetness of ripe tomatoes all come together beautifully with a light, tangy dressing. The combination of white vinegar, olive oil, and lemon juice creates a marinade that enhances the natural flavors while adding a delightful zesty kick. A touch of sugar balances the acidity, making each bite irresistible.
Perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or as a simple weekday side, this salad is a fantastic way to add a fresh element to any meal. Plus, it’s easy to customize! Add fresh dill for an herby touch, or sprinkle some parsley for extra color and flavor. Whether served alongside grilled dishes or enjoyed on its own, this marinated salad is a crowd-pleaser
Ingredients for Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes 🥒🧅
To create this refreshing and zesty salad, you’ll need a handful of fresh, high-quality ingredients that blend together to create a light yet flavorful dish.
- 2 large cucumbers – Thinly sliced for a crisp and hydrating texture. Choose firm cucumbers like English or Persian for the best results.
- 1 medium red onion – Thinly sliced to add a sharp, slightly sweet contrast to the salad.
- 2 large tomatoes – Cut into wedges or slices. Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for maximum flavor.
- 1/4 cup white vinegar – Provides the tangy base of the marinade, enhancing the freshness of the vegetables.
- 1/4 cup olive oil – Balances the acidity and adds a smooth, light richness.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice – Adds extra brightness and a natural citrusy freshness.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar – Helps to mellow out the acidity and enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Brings out the flavors of the vegetables. Adjust to taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a slight kick and rounds out the seasoning.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill (optional) – A fragrant herb that pairs beautifully with cucumbers.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional) – Adds color and a hint of earthiness.
How to Make Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
Making this vibrant and flavorful salad is incredibly easy. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing.
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Wash the cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers thinly, ensuring even cuts for the best texture. Next, slice the red onion into thin rings or half-moons for a mild yet noticeable crunch. Finally, cut the tomatoes into wedges or slices—keeping them chunky ensures they hold their shape while marinating.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the white vinegar, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, sugar, salt, and black pepper until well combined. The sugar should dissolve completely, and the mixture should be slightly thickened from the oil.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Place the sliced cucumbers, red onion, and tomato wedges into a large mixing bowl. Pour the marinade over the vegetables, ensuring that everything is evenly coated. Gently toss the salad using tongs or a spoon to distribute the dressing.
Step 4: Let It Marinate
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, tossing occasionally to ensure even flavor absorption. The longer the salad sits, the more the vegetables soak up the tangy, herby dressing.
Step 5: Final Touches and Serving
Before serving, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you’re using fresh dill, sprinkle it over the top for a delicious herbal note. Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and freshness. Serve chilled and enjoy!
How Long to Marinate Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
The marination time plays a key role in developing the best flavors and textures in this salad. While the vegetables can be enjoyed immediately, allowing them to sit in the marinade enhances their taste and makes them even more delicious.
Recommended Marination Times:
- Quick marination (30 minutes) – If you’re short on time, 30 minutes in the refrigerator will infuse some flavor, though the onions may still be sharp.
- Ideal marination (1-2 hours) – This is the best time frame for allowing the flavors to meld while keeping the vegetables crisp.
- Overnight marination (8+ hours) – If you want maximum flavor, marinate overnight. The cucumbers will soften slightly, the onions will mellow out, and the tomatoes will absorb the tangy dressing beautifully.
How to Store Leftovers
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, proper storage ensures it stays delicious for the next day.
- Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Over time, the cucumbers will release water, slightly diluting the marinade.
- Refreshing the Salad – If the flavors have faded after refrigeration, simply stir in an extra splash of vinegar or lemon juice before serving.
- Avoid Freezing – Since cucumbers and tomatoes have high water content, freezing is not recommended as it will make them too soft and mushy when thawed.
Tips for Perfect Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
To get the most out of this vibrant and refreshing salad, follow these tips:
1. Choose Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients
The quality of your vegetables determines the final flavor. Use firm cucumbers, ripe but firm tomatoes, and fresh, crisp red onions for the best results.
2. Slice Evenly for Consistent Texture
Thin, uniform slices ensure that all the vegetables absorb the marinade evenly and maintain a satisfying crunch.
3. Adjust the Sweetness and Acidity to Your Taste
- If you like a tangier flavor, increase the vinegar or lemon juice.
- If you prefer a smoother taste, slightly reduce the vinegar and add a little more sugar.
4. Use Fresh Herbs for Extra Flavor
Adding fresh dill or parsley elevates the taste and gives the salad a more aromatic, garden-fresh feel.
5. Let It Marinate for the Best Taste
Even a short marination period enhances the flavors, but if you have time, letting it sit for at least an hour will bring out the best balance of tangy, sweet, and savory notes.
6. Experiment with Additional Ingredients
For a unique twist, try adding:
- Sliced bell peppers for extra crunch and sweetness.
- Crumbled feta cheese for a creamy, salty contrast.
- Avocado slices for a creamy texture and added richness
Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
- Total Time: 1h20
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes are a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy red onions are tossed in a zesty marinade made with vinegar, olive oil, and lemon juice. This refreshing salad is easy to prepare, packed with bold flavors, and best enjoyed chilled—a great addition to any meal!
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced 🥒
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced 🧅
- 2 large tomatoes, cut into wedges or slices 🍅
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil 🫒
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 🍋
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar 🍬
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste 🧂
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste 🌶️
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill (optional) 🌿
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional) 🌿
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, red onion, and tomato wedges.
- In a small bowl, whisk together white vinegar, olive oil, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Pour the marinade over the vegetables and gently toss to coat evenly.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, tossing occasionally for even marination.
- Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle with fresh dill and parsley if desired.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing side salad. Enjoy!
Notes
- For added crunch, sprinkle chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds before serving.
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir before serving to refresh the flavors.
- To mellow the onion flavor, soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes before adding them to the salad.
- Try adding crumbled feta cheese or sliced avocado for a creamy twist!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Use a Different Type of Onion?
Yes! While red onions add a slightly sweet and sharp flavor, you can substitute them with white onions for a milder taste or sweet onions if you prefer a less pungent option. If you want a more subtle onion flavor, soak the sliced onions in cold water for 10 minutes before adding them to the salad.
2. What Type of Cucumbers Work Best for This Recipe?
The best cucumbers for this salad are English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers because they have thin skin, fewer seeds, and a crisp texture. However, if you use regular garden cucumbers, you may want to peel them and remove the seeds to avoid a watery salad.
3. How Can I Make This Salad Less Acidic?
If you find the marinade too tangy, try one or more of these adjustments:
- Reduce the white vinegar slightly and increase the olive oil for a smoother taste.
- Add an extra teaspoon of sugar or honey to balance the acidity.
- Replace half of the vinegar with apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar, which are milder in flavor.
4. Can I Add Protein to This Salad?
Absolutely! If you want to turn this into a more filling dish, try adding:
- Grilled chicken strips for a hearty and healthy addition.
- Chickpeas or white beans for a plant-based protein boost.
- Crumbled feta cheese to add a creamy, tangy element.
- Hard-boiled eggs for extra texture and richness