Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes Recipe
Introduction
This marinated cucumber, onion, and tomato salad is a refreshing side dish perfect for warm days or as a vibrant accompaniment to any meal. With a tangy vinegar dressing and fresh herbs, it’s bright, crisp, and full of flavor.

Ingredients
- 2 cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 small red or white onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers and onion, then halve the cherry or grape tomatoes.
- Step 2: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add red pepper flakes if you want a little heat.
- Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, halved tomatoes, and onions.
- Step 4: Pour the marinade over the vegetables and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Step 5: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes, preferably a few hours or overnight, to let the flavors meld.
- Step 6: Before serving, toss the salad again and garnish with the chopped fresh parsley or dill.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, add thinly sliced radishes or bell peppers.
- Use fresh herbs like basil or mint instead of parsley or dill for a different flavor.
- If you prefer a milder onion flavor, soak the sliced onions in cold water for 10 minutes before mixing.
Storage
Store the marinated salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The vegetables will continue to soften as they marinate. Serve chilled or at room temperature, and give it a good toss before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of vinegar?
Yes, you can substitute apple cider or red wine vinegar with white wine vinegar or rice vinegar for a milder taste.
How long should I marinate the salad?
While 30 minutes is the minimum, marinating for a few hours or overnight enhances the flavors and softens the vegetables nicely.
PrintMarinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes Recipe
A refreshing and tangy marinated salad featuring crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and sharp onions, all soaked in a flavorful vinegar and olive oil dressing with garlic and herbs. Perfect as a side dish or a light snack, this recipe brings together fresh ingredients and a simple marinade for a vibrant, easy-to-make salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes to overnight
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 small red or white onion, thinly sliced
Marinade
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers, halve the cherry or grape tomatoes, and thinly slice the red or white onion.
- Mix the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using, to create a flavorful dressing.
- Combine Vegetables: Place the sliced cucumbers, halved tomatoes, and onions into a large bowl for marinating.
- Marinate the Salad: Pour the prepared marinade over the vegetables and toss gently to coat every piece evenly with the dressing.
- Refrigerate: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally a few hours or overnight, to let the flavors meld.
- Serve: Toss the salad again before serving and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or dill for added aroma and color.
Notes
- This salad is best when marinated overnight for maximum flavor absorption.
- Use fresh herbs like dill or parsley to complement the tangy marinade.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes for desired heat level, or omit for a milder flavor.
- Serve chilled as a side dish to grilled meats or as a light appetizer.
- For a sweeter touch, add a pinch of sugar or honey to the marinade.
Keywords: marinated cucumber salad, tomato onion salad, easy summer salad, vinaigrette salad, fresh vegetable salad

