Fresh, crunchy, and infused with tangy-sweet flavor, Marinated Cucumber, Onion & Tomato Salad is a side dish that never goes out of style. With minimal prep and wholesome ingredients, this salad brings simplicity and brightness to your plate. Whether you’re preparing for a summer barbecue, a cozy family dinner, or just looking for a quick veggie-packed dish, this marinated salad is a go-to choice.
Bursting with garden-fresh flavors, this salad relies on the magic of marination to elevate its humble ingredients. Cucumbers stay crisp, tomatoes soak up tangy notes, and thinly sliced onions mellow out in the sweet vinegar dressing. Easy to customize, it’s also a great base for other vegetables, herbs, or even cheese.
Let’s explore how to make this fresh salad, how to store it, when to serve it, and how to tweak it for your tastes.
Ingredients for Marinated Cucumber, Onion & Tomato Salad
Vegetables
- 3 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced (peeled or unpeeled)
- 1 medium onion, sliced into thin rings (red or white)
- 3 medium tomatoes, cut into wedges or large chunks
Dressing
- ½ cup vinegar (white, apple cider, or wine vinegar)
- ¼ cup water
- ¼ cup vegetable oil or olive oil
- 2–3 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Optional: ½ teaspoon dried basil or parsley
How to Make It – Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vinegar, water, oil, sugar, salt, pepper, and herbs (if using). Keep whisking until the sugar fully dissolves and the ingredients blend into a light vinaigrette.
2. Add the Vegetables
Gently add the sliced cucumbers, onion rings, and tomato chunks into the bowl. Toss everything together carefully, ensuring all the vegetables are well-coated in the marinade.
3. Marinate
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For the best flavor, let it chill overnight. This allows the dressing to fully penetrate the vegetables and create a harmonious, tangy balance.4. Serve
Give the salad a gentle stir before serving. You can serve it cold, straight from the fridge, or let it come to room temperature for about 10 minutes before plating.Why Marinated Salad Works So Well
The beauty of this salad lies in the balance between textures and flavors. Cucumbers offer a watery crunch, tomatoes add juiciness and a hint of natural sweetness, and onions bring that subtle bite. Meanwhile, the sweet and tangy dressing soaks into the vegetables, transforming each bite into a flavor-packed experience.
This salad is also an excellent make-ahead option. The longer it marinates, the better the flavors develop, making it a perfect prep-ahead dish for gatherings or meal prep.
Best Vinegars to Use
- White vinegar: Sharp and neutral; brings out the brightness of the veggies
- Apple cider vinegar: Milder with a fruity edge; complements tomatoes and herbs
- Red or white wine vinegar: Adds elegance and mild acidity; excellent if serving with grilled meats
👉 If you’re looking for more veggie-focused flavor bombs, try our Healthy Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry—perfect for balancing out crisp salads with warm protein.
Storage Tip
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. Be sure to stir it gently before each serving, as the veggies may settle and the dressing can separate.
Avoid freezing, as cucumbers and tomatoes don’t thaw well due to their high water content.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with grilled chicken, steak, or fish
- Serve alongside sandwiches or wraps for a crisp contrast
- Use it as a topping for bruschetta or crusty bread
- Add to a lunch bowl with grains like quinoa or couscous
- Try it next to rich dishes like Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
Customization Ideas
Want to make this salad your own? Here are some easy ways to do it:
- Add Feta: Crumbled feta cheese turns it into a Mediterranean-style salad.
- Herbs: Fresh basil, dill, or mint work wonders.
- Peppers: Add thin strips of bell peppers for sweetness and crunch.
- Radishes: Sliced radishes add bite and color.
- Low-Sugar: Swap sugar for honey or a sugar-free substitute.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or minced jalapeño for heat.
👉 Discover great ideas like our Homemade No-Knead Sandwich Bread—a perfect companion to serve alongside this salad.
Nutrition Snapshot (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Approx. Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 90 |
| Total Fat | 6g |
| Carbs | 8g |
| Sugar | 4g |
| Fiber | 1.5g |
| Protein | 1g |
| Sodium | 240mg |
Light, refreshing, and loaded with antioxidants, this salad is an easy win for healthy eating.
FAQs
How long does this salad last?
Up to 4 days in the fridge. The flavor deepens over time.
Can I use cherry tomatoes?
Absolutely! Just cut them in halves or quarters.
Do I need to peel the cucumbers?
Not necessarily. English or Persian cucumbers can be left unpeeled for color and texture.
Is it vegan and gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free as written.
Can I use balsamic vinegar?
It’s not ideal for this salad because of its sweetness and color, but you can try a splash for variation.
Does it work as a meal?
Add protein like chickpeas or grilled chicken to turn it into a hearty lunch.
Conclusion
Marinated Cucumber, Onion & Tomato Salad is a timeless recipe for a reason—it’s simple, customizable, and incredibly satisfying. Made with pantry staples and fresh produce, it’s a recipe that works hard in any season and on any menu. Whether you’re heading to a potluck or just need a clean, vibrant side dish, this salad has your back.