Save Pin This Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes recipe is a refreshing and flavorful side dish, perfect for summer gatherings or everyday meals. Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and zesty onions are marinated in a tangy vinaigrette, creating a vibrant and delicious salad.
I first tried this salad at a picnic, and it was such a hit that I've been making it for every cookout since. It brings back memories of sunny afternoons with friends and family gathered around the table.
Ingredients
- Cucumbers: 2, thinly sliced
- Tomatoes: 1 pint cherry or grape, halved
- Onion: 1 small red or white, thinly sliced
- Vinegar: 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp extra virgin
- Garlic: 1 clove, minced
- Fresh herbs: 1 tbsp chopped parsley or dill
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Red pepper flakes: 1/2 tsp (optional)
Instructions
- Prep Vegetables:
- Wash and slice the cucumbers, halve the tomatoes, and thinly slice the onion.
- Make Marinade:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together vinegar, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add red pepper flakes if using.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Combine cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions in a large bowl.
- Marinate:
- Pour the marinade over the vegetables and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Chill and Serve:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably a few hours or overnight. Toss again before serving and garnish with fresh herbs.
Save Pin My kids love helping me toss the salad, and it always disappears quickly at family BBQs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled alongside grilled meat or fish, or scoop onto sandwiches and wraps for extra crunch.
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors intensify and vegetables stay crisp.
Variations
Add feta cheese, chickpeas, or avocado for extra richness, or swap out the vinegar for lemon juice for a citrus twist.
Save Pin This salad adds a pop of color to any meal and always impresses with its vibrant flavors.
Recipe FAQs
- → What kind of vinegar works best?
Apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar add a tangy kick to the marinade and complement the vegetables well.
- → Can fresh herbs be substituted?
Yes, parsley and dill both enhance the flavor profile, but basil or cilantro work nicely, too.
- → How long should vegetables marinate?
At least 30 minutes are recommended, but longer marinating (a few hours or overnight) deepens the flavors.
- → Is this dish served cold or at room temperature?
It's most refreshing when served chilled, straight from the refrigerator.
- → What type of tomato is preferred?
Cherry or grape tomatoes, halved, offer vibrant sweetness and juicy texture ideal for this mix.
- → Can the spice level be adjusted?
Red pepper flakes can be added or omitted based on your preferred level of heat.