If you’re looking for a refreshing and vibrant salad that bursts with every bite, this Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes Salad Recipe is going to become your new go-to. It’s a simple yet flavor-packed dish where crisp cucumbers, sweet and tangy tomatoes, and pungent red onions come alive in a zesty marinade. The magic happens as these vegetables soak up the tang of vinegar and the warmth of herbs, creating a salad that’s perfect for warm weather meals or as a lively side anytime. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be reaching for this recipe on repeat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes Salad Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the crispness and mildness of the cucumbers to the sweet acidity of fresh tomatoes and the punch of red onions. The dressing, made of vinegar, olive oil, and a hint of sweetness, ties everything together perfectly, ensuring every bite sings with balanced flavor and texture.
- 2 cups Cucumbers (English or Persian for better texture): These provide a cool, crunchy base that keeps the salad refreshingly light.
- 2 cups Tomatoes (Ripe and cut into wedges): Juicy and sweet, they bring vibrant color and natural acidity.
- 1 medium Red Onion (Thinly sliced): Adds a sharp, slightly sweet contrast that wakes up your taste buds.
- 0.5 cups Vinegar (Zesty tang): The heart of the marinade, giving the salad its vibrant, tangy lift.
- 0.25 cups Olive Oil (Provides richness): Balances acidity with smooth, fruity richness.
- 1 tablespoon Sugar or Honey (Balances acidity): Just the right touch of sweetness to harmonize the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon Chopped Fresh Parsley (Adds freshness): Brightens the dish and adds an herbal note.
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano (Infuses depth): A warm, earthy herb that complements the veggies beautifully.
- Salt (To taste): Enhances all the natural flavors.
- Black Pepper (To taste): Adds a little gentle heat and complexity.
How to Make Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by washing your cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons depending on your preference for texture. Cut the tomatoes into wedges, ensuring they’re bite-sized but still juicy. Finally, peel and slice the red onion as thinly as possible to keep its sharpness from overpowering the salad.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, sugar or honey, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until the sugar is fully dissolved and the dressing is well emulsified. This simple dressing is where all those bright flavors start to meld.
Step 3: Combine and Marinate
Place the sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions in a large bowl and pour the marinade over them. Toss gently to combine, making sure every piece is coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours – this marinating time lets the vegetables soak up those tangy and herbaceous flavors to perfection.
Step 4: Add Fresh Parsley and Final Seasoning
Right before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the salad for a vibrant color pop and an extra layer of freshness. Give the salad a final gentle toss and adjust the salt and pepper if needed.
How to Serve Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your salad’s presentation and flavor, consider adding crumbled feta cheese or thin slices of fresh mozzarella on top. A few whole parsley leaves or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts can add texture and visual appeal. These little touches turn a simple salad into something truly special.
Side Dishes
This Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes Salad Recipe pairs brilliantly with grilled meats such as chicken, lamb, or even fish. It offers a crisp, refreshing counterpoint to heavier dishes and fits seamlessly on a Mediterranean-inspired platter alongside hummus, pita, or roasted vegetables.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this salad inside hollowed-out tomatoes or cucumber cups for a charming appetizer. Alternatively, layer it with lettuces in a clear bowl to showcase the beautiful colors or plate it artistically on wide leaves of romaine lettuce for a pretty and portable salad experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, no worries! Keep your Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes Salad Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for 2 to 3 days, making it a perfect make-ahead dish for quick lunches or snacks.
Freezing
Due to the fresh vegetables and the marinade, freezing this salad is not recommended as the cucumbers and tomatoes can become mushy upon thawing. It’s always best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
This salad is designed to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. Simply take it out of the fridge a little before serving to let the flavors mellow and the salad come to a perfect eating temperature.
FAQs
Can I use other types of vinegar?
Absolutely! While white vinegar or apple cider vinegar works great, feel free to experiment with red wine vinegar or even balsamic for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind the balance of acidity and sweetness so it doesn’t overpower the salad.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Definitely! Thinly sliced bell peppers, radishes, or even shredded carrots can add extra crunch and color. Just make sure to keep the balance and don’t overcrowd the core flavors of the Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes Salad Recipe.
Is this salad suitable for vegans?
Yes, the salad itself is vegan-friendly. Just watch the garnishes if you add cheese, and feel free to substitute with vegan cheese or simply omit for a perfectly plant-based dish.
How long should I marinate the salad?
While even 30 minutes lets the flavors develop nicely, letting it sit for an hour or two in the refrigerator deepens the taste. Overnight marinating can make the vegetables a bit softer, so it depends on your preference for texture.
What type of cucumbers works best?
English or Persian cucumbers are preferred for their thin skins and crisp texture, which won’t overpower the delicate flavors. However, garden cucumbers can work as well; just be sure to peel them if the skin is thick or waxy.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely believe this Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes Salad Recipe is one of those simple dishes that you’ll come to cherish for its fresh flavors, easy preparation, and versatility. Whether you’re craving a light lunch, a beautiful side for dinner, or something to bring to a summer gathering, this salad shines every time. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Print
Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15m
- Cook Time: 0m
- Total Time: 15m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This vibrant marinated salad combines crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and sharp red onions, all soaked in a tangy vinaigrette made with vinegar, olive oil, and a touch of sweetness. Fresh parsley and dried oregano round out the flavors, making it a refreshing, easy-to-prepare side dish perfect for warm weather or as a complement to grilled meats and sandwiches.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 cups Cucumbers (English or Persian for better texture), sliced
- 2 cups Tomatoes, ripe and cut into wedges
- 1 medium Red Onion, thinly sliced
Dressing
- 0.5 cups Vinegar (zesty tang)
- 0.25 cups Olive Oil (provides richness)
- 1 tablespoon Sugar or Honey (balances acidity)
- 1 tablespoon Chopped Fresh Parsley (adds freshness)
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano (infuses depth)
- Salt, to taste
- Black Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Vegetables: Wash the cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons and cut the tomatoes into wedges. Thinly slice the red onion to ensure it mixes well and absorbs the flavors of the marinade.
- Make the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, sugar or honey, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until the sugar dissolves and the mixture emulsifies slightly.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion into a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Marinate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld and the vegetables to absorb the tangy marinade.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- For best results, use English or Persian cucumbers, which have fewer seeds and a crisper texture.
- The salad improves in flavor when allowed to marinate for several hours or overnight.
- Adjust the sugar or honey quantity depending on your preferred sweetness level.
- This salad can be customized by adding chopped fresh herbs like dill or basil for additional flavor layers.
- Serve this salad as a light side dish or accompaniment to grilled dishes, sandwiches, or as part of a mezze platter.
