This Easy Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad is a refreshing burst of flavors! With crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and zesty onions, it’s great for a quick side dish.
Prepare for compliments! I love serving this salad during summer barbecues—it’s super simple and pairs perfectly with everything. Plus, it’s healthy and colorful—what’s not to love?
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: I love using English cucumbers because they have fewer seeds and a great crunch. If they’re not available, regular cucumbers work just fine. You can also use pickling cucumbers for a tangy touch!
Tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes are essential, so I prefer vine-ripened for their flavor. If you’re in a pinch, cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes add sweetness and can be left whole or halved.
Red Onion: Red onions give a nice color and mild bite to the salad. If they’re too strong for you, try using green onions or shallots for a milder flavor.
Vinegar: White vinegar is my go-to, but apple cider vinegar adds a fruity note. If you like a sweeter taste, balsamic vinegar can be a delicious option too.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley or cilantro brightens the salad. Don’t have them? You can skip them or use dried herbs like basil or dill for different flavor notes.
How Do I Make the Most Flavorful Dressing for My Salad?
The dressing really binds the salad together, so here’s how to make it perfect every time! The key is to balance acidity and sweetness.
- Whisk the vinegar, olive oil, sugar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper together until the sugar fully dissolves.
- Taste the dressing before pouring it over the salad. It should be tangy but balanced, so adjust with more sugar or salt as needed.
- Allow the salad to marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This lets the cucumbers and tomatoes soak up the flavors, making the salad refreshingly delicious.
How to Make Easy Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium cucumbers, peeled and diced
- 3 medium ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
- 3 tablespoons white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad requires about 10 minutes to prep and an additional 30 minutes to marinate in the fridge. So, in just a total of around 40 minutes, you can enjoy a deliciously fresh side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Vegetables:
In a large bowl, toss together the diced cucumbers, diced tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion. This colorful mix is the heart of the salad, so make sure it’s nicely mixed.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, sugar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Keep whisking until the sugar is completely dissolved and everything is well combined. This dressing is what gives the salad its zing!
3. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the vegetable mix and toss gently to ensure that all the veggies are coated evenly. This step is key to making every bite flavorful!
4. Add Herbs:
If you’re using fresh parsley or cilantro, stir them in now. They add a nice touch of freshness to the salad.
5. Marinate:
Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This time allows the flavors to meld together, making the salad even tastier.
6. Final Touches:
Before serving, give the salad another gentle toss. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed, depending on your preference.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your salad is ready to be enjoyed! It can be served chilled or at room temperature, making it a perfect side dish for any meal. Savor the refreshing and tangy flavors of this delightful salad!
Can I Use Different Types of Vinegar?
Absolutely! While white vinegar is commonly used for its sharpness, apple cider vinegar adds a sweeter, fruitier flavor. You can also try balsamic vinegar for a richer taste, but start with a smaller amount as it’s sweeter.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as the vegetables may release more liquid over time.
Can I Customize the Vegetables in This Salad?
Definitely! This salad is versatile. You can add bell peppers, zucchini, or even avocados for a creamier texture. Just make sure to keep the ratios similar so the dressing works well with the flavors!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Herbs?
If you don’t have fresh parsley or cilantro on hand, you can omit them. Dried herbs work as well—just use about half the amount since they’re more concentrated. Dried basil or dill could also add a nice twist!
