This Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes salad is a light, flavorful side dish that’s perfect for warm days or as an accompaniment to hearty mains. With crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy onions soaked in a zesty marinade of vinegar, sugar, and black pepper, every bite is a burst of fresh, vibrant flavor.

Easy to prepare and best served chilled, this classic salad is ideal for picnics, barbecues, or a simple weeknight dinner. Let it marinate for a couple of hours to maximize the flavor, and enjoy this refreshing dish as a delicious taste of summer!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple, refreshing, and bursting with tangy-sweet flavor, this Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes dish is a classic summertime side. It’s light, hydrating, and packed with fresh vegetables coated in a zingy vinegar-based marinade. This recipe is perfect for backyard barbecues, picnics, or as a healthy accompaniment to your favorite grilled meats or sandwiches. Plus, it’s make-ahead friendly, allowing the flavors to deepen over time. With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh produce, this dish is as easy as it is delicious.

Key Ingredients

Cucumbers: Crisp and hydrating, cucumbers form the base of this salad. Their mild flavor absorbs the marinade beautifully. Choose English cucumbers for fewer seeds or regular cucumbers for a traditional crunch.

Tomatoes: Juicy wedges of ripe tomatoes add sweetness and a pop of vibrant color. Roma or beefsteak tomatoes work well, but heirloom tomatoes are an excellent option for an extra flavor boost.

Onions: Sliced onions bring a sharp, aromatic edge to the dish. Use red onions for a sweeter, milder taste or yellow onions for a bolder flavor.

Vinegar: Distilled white vinegar provides the tangy backbone of the marinade. Apple cider vinegar is an excellent alternative for a slightly fruity note.

Vegetable Oil: Adds a silky texture and balances the sharp acidity of the vinegar. Olive oil can be used for a richer flavor.

Sugar: A touch of sweetness rounds out the tangy marinade, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, these enhance the natural flavors of the vegetables and bring the marinade to life.

Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
1 cup of water
1/2 cup of vinegar (white or apple cider)
1/4 cup of vegetable oil
2 tablespoons of sugar
1 teaspoon of salt
1/2 teaspoon of pepper
Continue whisking until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables

Add the prepared vegetables to the bowl:
Thinly sliced cucumber rounds
Wedges of fresh tomatoes
Slices or rings of onions
Toss gently to ensure all the vegetables are evenly coated in the marinade.

Step 3: Marinate

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a tight-fitting lid.
Place the bowl in the refrigerator and allow the vegetables to marinate for at least 2 hours. This chilling time lets the vegetables absorb the tangy and sweet flavors of the marinade.

Step 4: Serve

Before serving, stir the salad to redistribute the marinade.
Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish.

Serving Suggestions

This marinated vegetable salad is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes:

Grilled Meats: Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a light and refreshing contrast.
Sandwiches: Pile some of the marinated vegetables onto burgers, pulled pork sandwiches, or wraps for added crunch and tang.
Mediterranean Pairing: Complement with hummus, pita bread, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Picnic Spread: Include this salad as part of a picnic menu with potato salad, coleslaw, and fruit salad.

Storage and Tips

Storing Leftovers:

Store the marinated vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, but the vegetables may soften slightly over time.

Make-Ahead:

This dish tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining. Just stir before serving to redistribute the marinade.

Tips for Success:

Slice Uniformly: Cut the cucumbers and onions evenly for consistent texture and marination.
Use Fresh Vegetables: Ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and fresh onions are key to a flavorful salad.
Chill for Maximum Flavor: Let the salad marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better for deeper flavor.
Customize the Marinade: Adjust the sugar, vinegar, or salt to suit your taste. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.

Variations

This recipe is endlessly adaptable! Try these variations to keep things exciting:

Herbal Boost: Add freshly chopped dill, parsley, or basil to the marinade for an herbal twist.
Cheese Addition: Crumble in some feta or goat cheese for a creamy, tangy element.
Avocado Upgrade: Toss in diced avocado just before serving for a creamy texture.
Pickled Flavor: Let the vegetables marinate longer (up to 24 hours) for a more intense pickled taste.
Different Veggies: Add bell peppers, radishes, or even thinly sliced zucchini for variety.

Conclusion

This Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes recipe is a true testament to the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients. It’s an easy-to-make dish that delivers big flavor with minimal effort, making it perfect for any occasion. Serve it as a refreshing side dish or light salad, and enjoy the crisp, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors that make this recipe a classic. Try it once, and it just might become your go-to summer staple!