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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This marinated cucumber, onion, and tomato salad is loved for many reasons:

It’s quick and easy to prepare.
Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
No cooking required.
It’s hydrating and refreshing—perfect for warm days.
Can be served as a side dish or even a light main.
It’s naturally vegan and gluten-free.

Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced home cook, this recipe is both forgiving and customizable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Here are the basic ingredients:

2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
3 ripe tomatoes, sliced or chopped
1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon sugar (optional for balance)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs (optional: dill, parsley, or basil)

Feel free to adjust the proportions depending on your taste and the number of servings you want to make.

How to Make Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Wash the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onion thoroughly. Thinly slice the cucumbers and onion for a uniform texture and chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper. You can also add herbs at this point for extra flavor.

Step 3: Combine and Marinate

Toss the vegetables into a large mixing bowl. Pour the marinade over the vegetables and gently mix until everything is well coated.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours, to allow the flavors to develop. Serve chilled for best taste.

Health Benefits of the Ingredients

This dish isn’t just tasty—it’s incredibly good for you. Here’s a breakdown of the health benefits:

Cucumbers are hydrating and contain antioxidants, vitamin K, and potassium.
Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, lycopene (a powerful antioxidant), and folate.
Onions provide vitamin C and compounds that may help reduce inflammation and support heart health.
Olive oil is a healthy fat, beneficial for heart health and inflammation.
Vinegar may help with blood sugar regulation and adds zest without calories.

Combining these ingredients offers a flavorful, low-calorie salad packed with nutrients.

Variations and Additions

This salad is highly customizable. Here are some tasty variations:

Add Avocados for creaminess and healthy fats.
Throw in Feta Cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
Include Bell Peppers for extra crunch and color.
Sprinkle with Chili Flakes for a spicy kick.
Use Balsamic Vinegar instead of white for deeper flavor.

These variations can make the salad feel new each time you prepare it.

Storage Tips

Marinated cucumber, onion, and tomato salad keeps well in the refrigerator. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. However, be aware that the vegetables may release more water over time and become softer. To maintain freshness, you can drain excess liquid before serving.

Best Occasions to Serve This Dish

This salad fits perfectly into many meal settings:

Summer BBQs
Potlucks and picnics
Weeknight dinners
Holiday side dishes
Healthy lunch meal prep

It’s a crowd-pleaser that complements grilled meats, sandwiches, and even other vegetable dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, and it’s actually better when made a few hours in advance to let the flavors meld. Just refrigerate and stir before serving.
How long does it last in the fridge?
It’s best enjoyed within 2 to 3 days. The vegetables may lose their crispness over time.
Can I use different types of vinegar?
Absolutely. Apple cider vinegar, red wine vinegar, and even rice vinegar work well.
Do I need to peel the cucumbers?
If you’re using regular cucumbers, you may want to peel them. If using English or Persian cucumbers, peeling is optional.
Is sugar necessary in the recipe?
No, it’s optional. It simply balances the acidity of the vinegar.
What type of tomatoes are best?
Firm, ripe tomatoes like Roma or cherry tomatoes are ideal because they hold their shape well.
Can I add garlic to this salad?
Yes. Finely minced garlic adds a deeper flavor and pairs well with the vinegar.
What if I don’t like raw onions?
Soak the onions in cold water for 10 minutes before mixing. This mellows out the strong taste.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
It can be. Just omit the sugar or use a low-carb alternative like stevia.
What oil is best for marinating?
Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for flavor and health benefits.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, but use them sparingly. Dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
Can this salad be frozen?
No. Freezing will ruin the texture of the vegetables. It’s best served fresh.
Can I serve this warm?
It’s meant to be served chilled. Warm versions may lose their crisp texture.
How can I make it more filling?
Add beans, quinoa, or chopped hard-boiled eggs to make it more substantial.
Is this dish good for weight loss?
Yes. It’s low in calories, high in water content, and full of nutrients, making it ideal for weight-conscious diets.

Final Thoughts

The refreshing marinated cucumbers, onions, and tomato recipe is one of those timeless dishes that never goes out of style. Its bright flavors, simplicity, and health benefits make it a valuable addition to any meal plan. Whether you’re serving it to guests or enjoying it alone, it’s a dish that nourishes and satisfies without any fuss.

Experiment with your own twist, serve it with pride, and most importantly—enjoy every bite.

Refreshing Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomato Recipe

This Refreshing Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomato Recipe is a vibrant, juicy, and crisp salad that’s perfect for warm days or as a zesty side dish any time of year. With thinly sliced cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and sharp red onions tossed in a tangy vinegar-based dressing, this dish is hydrating, low in calories, and packed with fresh flavor. It’s easy to prepare, full of color, and absolutely irresistible. Whether you're looking for a light lunch, a potluck favorite, or a complement to grilled meats, this chilled marinated salad delivers satisfaction in every bite.

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Prep Time 10

Total Time 10

Course Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine American, Mediterranean

Servings 4

Calories 80 kcal

Ingredients

2 large cucumbers thinly sliced
3 medium ripe tomatoes chopped or sliced
1 medium red onion thinly sliced
1/4 cup white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon sugar optional, to balance acidity
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh dill or parsley finely chopped (optional)
Optional additions for variation:
Feta cheese avocado slices, bell peppers, or garlic.

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables: Wash all produce thoroughly. Peel the cucumbers if desired (optional), then thinly slice them. Chop or slice the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the red onion.
Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, sugar (if using), salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Toss the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions. Pour the marinade over the vegetables and gently toss until all ingredients are well coated.
Chill and Marinate: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Stir once or twice during marination if possible.
Serve: Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or light lunch. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.