Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Uses fresh, simple ingredients
- Perfect for picnics, barbecues, and potlucks
- A great way to enjoy summer vegetables
- Naturally vegan and gluten-free
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- Ripe tomatoes, sliced or chopped
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- Vinegar (such as apple cider or white vinegar)
- Water
- Sugar
- Salt and black pepper
- Fresh herbs (optional, such as dill or parsley)
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and black pepper until well mixed.
- Pour the marinade over the vegetables, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for deeper flavor).
- Before serving, toss the salad and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marination Time: At least 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño.
- Creamy Version: Mix in a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Extra Crunch: Toss in thinly sliced bell peppers or radishes.
- Sweeter Taste: Use balsamic vinegar instead of regular vinegar.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold, so no reheating is necessary. Simply give it a stir before serving.
FAQs
How long should I marinate the salad?
For the best flavor, marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better.
Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Yes, you can use apple cider vinegar, white vinegar, red wine vinegar, or even balsamic for a different taste.
Is this salad keto-friendly?
Yes, but you may want to reduce or omit the sugar to keep it low-carb.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, radishes, or avocados make great additions.
What type of onion works best?
Red onion adds a mild sweetness, but white or yellow onions also work well.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, in fact, making it a day in advance enhances the flavors.
How do I prevent the cucumbers from getting soggy?
You can lightly salt the cucumbers and let them sit for 10-15 minutes before mixing them with other ingredients. This draws out excess moisture.
Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of regular tomatoes?
Yes! Cherry tomatoes add a sweet, juicy bite to the salad.
Is this salad good for meal prep?
Yes, it stays fresh for a few days, making it a great meal prep option.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh herbs provide a brighter flavor. If using dried herbs, use about half the amount.
Conclusion
This marinated cucumber, tomato, and onion salad is a simple, delicious, and refreshing dish that pairs perfectly with any meal. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue, picnic, or just as a light side, its tangy and crisp flavors are sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy the fresh taste of summer!
PrintMarinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad
This marinated cucumber, tomato, and onion salad is a fresh, tangy, and easy-to-make side dish, perfect for summer gatherings. Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and sharp onions soak in a flavorful vinegar marinade, creating a refreshing and vibrant dish. Ideal for BBQs, potlucks, and meal prep, this salad is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and keto-friendly (with sugar adjustments).
- Prep Time: 10min
- Cook Time: 2hours
- Total Time: 2hours10min
- Yield: 4-6servings
- Category: salad
- Method: Marinating
- Cuisine: American, Summer
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 ripe tomatoes, sliced or chopped
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup vinegar (apple cider or white vinegar)
- ½ cup water
- 1–2 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Fresh herbs (optional, such as dill or parsley)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the marinade over the vegetables, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for deeper flavor).
- Toss before serving and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño.
- Creamy Version: Mix in a little sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Extra Crunch: Toss in thinly sliced bell peppers or radishes.
- Sweeter Taste: Swap vinegar for balsamic vinegar.
- Prevent Sogginess: Lightly salt cucumbers and let them sit for 10-15 minutes before mixing.
