Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad Recipe
Introduction
This fresh and tangy salad combines marinated cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes for a vibrant side dish. It’s quick to prepare and thrives on simple ingredients tossed in a flavorful vinegar dressing.
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 slice the cucumbers thinly, halve the tomatoes, and thinly slice the onion.
- Step 2: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add red pepper flakes if using.
- Step 3: Combine the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions in a large bowl.
- Step 4: Pour the marinade over the vegetables and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Step 5: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably a few hours or overnight for the best flavor.
- Step 6: Toss the salad again before serving and garnish with the fresh parsley or dill.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, add thinly sliced bell peppers or radishes.
- Use fresh herbs like basil or cilantro if you prefer a different flavor profile.
- Adjust the vinegar type depending on your taste; white balsamic vinegar adds a subtle sweetness.
- Omit the red pepper flakes for a milder salad or add more for extra heat.
Storage
Store the salad covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen with time, making leftovers just as tasty. Before serving leftovers, give it a gentle toss to redistribute the marinade.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular cucumbers instead of Persian or English cucumbers?
Yes, regular cucumbers work fine. To avoid excess water, you can peel them or scoop out the seeds if desired.
Does this salad need to be served chilled?
Yes, chilling the salad helps the flavors meld and keeps the vegetables crisp, making it more refreshing to enjoy.
Print
Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes (minimum marination time)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and zesty marinated salad featuring crisp cucumbers, sweet cherry tomatoes, and sharp onions, all tossed in a tangy vinegar and olive oil dressing infused with garlic and fresh herbs. Perfect as a light side dish or a vibrant addition to any meal.
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
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill
Instructions
- Prepare vegetables: Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers, halve the cherry or grape tomatoes, and thinly slice the onion.
- Make the marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the apple cider or red wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat.
- Combine vegetables: Place the sliced cucumbers, halved tomatoes, and sliced onions in a large bowl.
- Dress the vegetables: Pour the prepared marinade over the vegetables and toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Marinate: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. For best results, marinate for a few hours or overnight.
- Serve: Before serving, toss the salad once more, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or dill, and enjoy this crisp, flavorful dish.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add extra red pepper flakes.
- Ensure vegetables are sliced uniformly for an even marination.
- Can be prepared a day ahead to deepen flavors.
- Serve chilled for the best refreshing taste.
- Substitute fresh herbs based on availability or preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: marinated cucumber salad, tomato salad, summer salad, no-cook salad, easy side dish, healthy salad, vegetarian salad
