Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad

Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad: A Refreshing & Flavorful Dish

Vegetable lovers, get ready for a light, refreshing, and tangy salad that is perfect for any season! This Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that combines crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and sharp onions, all tossed in a sweet and tangy vinegar marinade. Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish, a healthy meal option, or a refreshing snack, this easy-to-make salad is just what you need.

Introduction

Nothing beats a cold, marinated salad on a warm day. With its crisp texture and bright, zesty flavors, this Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad is a must-try! It’s the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory, thanks to a simple homemade marinade made from vinegar, sugar, oil, and seasonings.

Not only is this salad delicious and refreshing, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a healthy, low-calorie dish that pairs well with almost any meal. The best part? The longer it marinates, the better the flavors become! Let’s dive into this crisp, tangy, and irresistibly tasty recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad

Quick & Easy: Just 15 minutes of prep, and the fridge does the rest!
Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making it a great addition to any diet.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Enjoy it as a side dish, appetizer, or light lunch.
Customizable: Adjust the sweetness, acidity, and seasonings to your taste preference.
Meal Prep Friendly: This salad tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for make-ahead meals.

Ingredients

To prepare this flavorful and refreshing Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Essential Ingredients

3 medium cucumbers, peeled and sliced
1 medium onion, sliced into rings
3 medium tomatoes, cut into wedges
1/2 cup vinegar (white or apple cider vinegar works best)
1/4 cup sugar
1 cup water
2 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup oil (olive oil or vegetable oil)
1 tsp chopped fresh mint (optional)

How to Make Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad

1. Prep the Vegetables

Start by washing and slicing your vegetables:

Peel and slice the cucumbers into thin rounds.
Slice the onion into thin rings for a crunchy bite.
Cut the tomatoes into wedges, ensuring they hold their shape in the marinade.
Once all your vegetables are prepped, place them in a large mixing bowl.

2. Make the Marinade

In a separate bowl, combine:

1/2 cup vinegar
1/4 cup sugar
1 cup water
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup oil

Whisk everything together until the sugar completely dissolves. This mixture will create a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, enhancing the freshness of the vegetables.

3. Combine & Marinate

Pour the prepared marinade over the cucumber, onion, and tomato mixture. Toss gently to ensure all vegetables are coated evenly.

4. Chill & Serve

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld. For the best taste, let it marinate overnight—this will help the veggies absorb the marinade’s delicious flavors.

Once chilled, give it a final stir, garnish with fresh mint (if using), and serve cold.

Helpful Tips

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes make a world of difference in flavor.
Slice Evenly: Cutting your veggies uniformly ensures even marination.
Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a tangier salad, reduce the sugar. For a sweeter taste, add a little extra.
Use Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a subtle fruitiness compared to white vinegar.
Let it Marinate Longer: Overnight marination enhances the taste significantly.

Cooking Tips

To elevate your Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad, try these expert cooking tips:

Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley, basil, or dill can enhance the flavor.
Experiment with Vinegar: Try using red wine vinegar for a slightly deeper taste.
Boost the Flavor: Add a dash of lemon juice for extra brightness.
Make it Spicy: Toss in crushed red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

This refreshing salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes:

Grilled meats like steak, chicken, or salmon
BBQ favorites such as burgers, ribs, or sausages
Mediterranean meals like gyros, hummus, and falafel
Simple sides such as rice, baked potatoes, or garlic bread

Nutritional Information

Here’s a nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories: 120
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 7g
Sodium: 480mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 6g
Vitamin C: 25%
Calcium: 4%
Iron: 5%

Storage & Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Keep It Fresh: If making ahead, wait to add tomatoes until just before serving to prevent them from becoming too soft.
Avoid Freezing: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, as freezing will affect the texture of the vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use cherry tomatoes instead?
Yes! Cherry or grape tomatoes work great and hold their shape well in the marinade.

What’s the best vinegar to use?
White vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or red wine vinegar all work well—choose based on your preference.

How long should I marinate it?
At least 2 hours, but overnight is best for maximum flavor.

Can I make it without sugar?
Yes! Substitute with honey, a sugar alternative, or omit it altogether for a tangier version.

Related Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed this Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad, try these other refreshing and healthy recipes:

Conclusion

This Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad is a simple yet delicious way to add freshness and flavor to your meals. With its crisp textures, tangy-sweet marinade, and vibrant ingredients, it’s the perfect side dish for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it at a summer barbecue, family dinner, or weekday lunch, this salad is guaranteed to be a hit. Try it today and enjoy a healthy, flavorful, and refreshing dish! 🥒🍅