Introduction

This marinated cucumber tomato salad is the perfect easy side dish for any meal. With crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy onions in a simple vinaigrette, it’s incredibly refreshing and comes together in minutes. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or stands alone as a light lunch. For another fresh favorite, try this Best Homemade Salsa Recipe.

Ingredients

This refreshing summer salad combines crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and sharp onions in a tangy sweet-and-sour marinade that develops incredible flavor as it chills.

• Water
• Vinegar (apple cider vinegar or white vinegar)
• Oil (olive oil or vegetable oil)
• Sugar
• Salt
• Pepper
• Cucumbers
• Tomatoes
• Onions

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	0 minutes
Total Time	15 minutes

Context: This Marinated Cucumbers Onions Tomatoes recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes since it requires no cooking time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Your Vegetables

Wash and dry 2 medium cucumbers, 1 large onion, and 3 ripe tomatoes. For best texture, use English cucumbers or peel regular cucumbers if skins are thick.

Slice cucumbers into ¼-inch rounds, onions into thin half-moons, and tomatoes into wedges. Consistent sizing ensures even marination.

Step 2 — Create the Marinade Base

In a medium bowl, whisk together ½ cup white vinegar, ¼ cup water, and ¼ cup granulated sugar until sugar dissolves completely.

Add 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper. For extra flavor, consider adding 1 minced garlic clove or 1 tablespoon fresh dill at this stage.

Step 3 — Combine Vegetables and Marinade

Place all sliced vegetables in a large glass or ceramic bowl. Pour the marinade over them, ensuring all pieces are submerged.

Gently toss with a large spoon to distribute the marinade evenly. Avoid using metal bowls as they can react with the vinegar.

Step 4 — Initial Marination

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, tossing once halfway through.

This initial marination allows the flavors to begin penetrating the vegetables while the sugar and salt draw out natural juices.

Step 5 — Refrigerate for Full Flavor Development

Transfer the marinated cucumbers onions tomatoes to the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, though 4-6 hours is ideal for maximum flavor.

The vegetables are properly marinated when they’ve softened slightly and the liquid has increased from released juices.

Step 6 — Final Adjustments and Serving

Taste the marinated vegetables before serving. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or a splash of vinegar if needed.

Serve chilled as a side dish or topping. The marinated cucumbers onions tomatoes will keep refrigerated for 3-4 days in an airtight container.

Nutritional Information

Calories	45
Protein	1g
Carbohydrates	10g
Fat	0g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	150mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Zucchini ribbons — Lower-carb option with a mild, fresh flavor that absorbs marinade well.
• Bell peppers — Colorful, crunchy, and packed with vitamin C for a vibrant twist.
• Radishes — Peppery, low-carb alternative that stays crisp when marinated.
• Grilled chicken or chickpeas — Protein additions to make the dish more filling and satisfying.
• Avocado oil or olive oil — Heart-healthy, dairy-free fat options for the marinade.
• Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar — Gluten-free, tangy alternatives to traditional vinegar.
• Fresh herbs like dill or basil — Boost flavor without adding sodium, perfect for low-sodium diets.
• Stevia or monk fruit — Natural, zero-calorie sweeteners to balance acidity if desired.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a light summer meal
• Serve alongside barbecue ribs or pulled pork sandwiches
• Add to a picnic spread with cold cuts and crusty bread
• Top with fresh herbs like dill or basil for extra flavor
• Chill thoroughly before serving to enhance the marinated flavors
• Use as a vibrant topping for burgers or tacos

This refreshing Marinated Cucumbers Onions Tomatoes salad shines brightest when served cold, making it perfect for warm weather gatherings and outdoor dining. The tangy marinade cuts through rich, fatty foods beautifully, while the colorful presentation adds visual appeal to any table setting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using watery, large-seeded cucumbers. Fix: Opt for English or Persian cucumbers which are firmer and contain less moisture.
• Mistake: Skipping the salting step for cucumbers. Fix: Lightly salt sliced cucumbers and let them drain to prevent a watery marinade.
• Mistake: Cutting tomatoes and onions too far in advance. Fix: Prepare them just before assembling to maintain crisp texture and fresh flavor.
• Mistake: Overpowering the salad with too much vinegar. Fix: Use a balanced ratio of vinegar to oil and a touch of sweetness.
• Mistake: Not allowing enough marinating time for flavors to meld. Fix: Let the Marinated Cucumbers Onions Tomatoes chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
• Mistake: Using under-ripe or mealy tomatoes. Fix: Select ripe, firm tomatoes like Roma or cherry tomatoes for the best texture.
• Mistake: Storing the finished salad for too long. Fix: Consume within 2-3 days as the vegetables will continue to soften and release liquid.
• Mistake: Adding fresh herbs too early in the process. Fix: Stir in delicate herbs like dill or basil right before serving to keep them vibrant.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store marinated cucumbers onions tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The vegetables will soften over time but remain safe to eat if kept at or below 40°F.
• Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for this dish, as the high water content in cucumbers and tomatoes causes them to become mushy and release excess liquid upon thawing, ruining the texture.
• Reheat: Marinated cucumbers onions tomatoes are best served chilled and are not typically reheated. If you prefer them slightly less cold, let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving instead of applying heat.

Always use clean utensils when serving to prevent contamination and extend the freshness of your marinated salad.

Conclusion

This Marinated Cucumbers Onions Tomatoes salad is a refreshing, easy side dish perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments! For another great dressing option, check out our Homemade Italian Dressing Recipe Easy. Don’t forget to subscribe for more simple recipes!

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FAQs

How long should I marinate the cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes?

Marinate the vegetables for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to soften slightly. For the best Marinated Cucumbers Onions Tomatoes, let them sit for up to 8 hours.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this dish is perfect for making ahead. Prepare your Marinated Cucumbers Onions Tomatoes a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious.

What type of vinegar works best for the marinade?

Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar are excellent choices for this recipe. They provide a bright, tangy flavor that complements the fresh vegetables. Avoid using strongly flavored vinegars like balsamic for this Marinated Cucumbers Onions Tomatoes dish.