If you’re craving a fresh, vibrant, and incredibly easy dish to brighten up any meal, the Marinated Cucumbers, Tomatoes, and Onions Recipe is exactly what you need. This classic combination bursts with juicy sweetness, crisp crunch, and a tangy, garlicky kick that will have you reaching back for more. Perfect as a refreshing side or a light salad, it’s a simple way to celebrate fresh vegetables with a dazzling marinade that truly elevates their natural flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of fresh, everyday ingredients, this recipe relies on their quality and balance to create a wonderfully flavorful salad. Each element plays a crucial role bringing texture, acidity, and depth to the dish.
- 2 cucumbers, thinly sliced: Choose fresh cucumbers with firm skin for that crisp bite that refreshes the palate.
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved: These bite-sized tomatoes add juiciness and vibrant color, brightening the salad beautifully.
- 1 small red or white onion, thinly sliced: Onions provide a sharp yet mellow crunch that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar: A tangy vinegar forms the foundation of the marinade, cutting through the veggies’ natural sweetness.
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Adds a silky richness that coats every piece with a subtle fruity undertone.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses a gentle pungency that enhances the entire salad.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring out the freshness of all the ingredients.
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little heat, this adds a smoky spice kick without overwhelming.
How to Make Marinated Cucumbers, Tomatoes, and Onions Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly to remove any dirt and wax. Then slice them as thinly as you can to maximize their crunch and make them perfect for soaking up the marinade’s flavors.
Step 2: Slice the Tomatoes and Onions
Halve your cherry or grape tomatoes to release their natural juices into the salad, complementing the cucumbers beautifully. Next, thinly slice the onion to ensure it blends in nicely without overpowering the other veggies.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine the apple cider or red wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. If you love a bit of spice, stir in the red pepper flakes here. Whisk everything together until nicely emulsified—this is your flavorful dressing.
Step 4: Combine the Vegetables and Pour the Marinade
Place the sliced cucumbers, halved tomatoes, and thin onions in a large bowl. Pour the marinade over the veggies gradually, making sure they are evenly coated for maximum flavor infusion.
Step 5: Toss and Marinate
Gently toss the salad using salad servers or your hands—just until everything is coated. Cover with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. The longer you let it rest, the more the flavors meld together, creating a sensational taste experience.
Step 6: Final Toss and Serve
Before you serve, give the salad a final toss to redistribute the marinade and freshen it up. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or dill to add an extra pop of freshness.
How to Serve Marinated Cucumbers, Tomatoes, and Onions Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs such as basil, parsley, or dill complement the natural brightness and add visual appeal. For a touch of creaminess, crumble some feta cheese on top or sprinkle toasted nuts for crunch.
Side Dishes
This marinated salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or fish, adding a cool contrast to warm, savory dishes. It’s also fantastic alongside crusty bread, making it a great choice for light lunches or picnics.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve it in a clear glass bowl or individual mason jars to showcase its vibrant colors. You can also spoon it atop toasted crostini for a tasty appetizer or stuff it into pita pockets for a fresh, quick meal option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The salad stays fresh for up to 3 days, with the flavors developing even more as the vegetables soak in the marinade.
Freezing
This recipe isn’t suitable for freezing since cucumbers and tomatoes lose their texture and become watery when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of preparation.
Reheating
There is no need to reheat this salad. It’s intended to be served chilled or at room temperature, preserving its crisp, refreshing qualities.
FAQs
Can I use other types of vinegar?
Absolutely! While apple cider and red wine vinegar are great choices, you can experiment with white wine vinegar or even balsamic for a different flavor profile. Just remember balsamic is sweeter, so adjust seasoning accordingly.
How long should I marinate the salad?
At minimum, 30 minutes in the fridge is needed to allow the flavors to meld, but for best results, marinate for 2 hours or even overnight. The veggies will absorb even more of the delicious dressing.
Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?
Yes, this Marinated Cucumbers, Tomatoes, and Onions Recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it a perfect option for a variety of diets without any substitutions.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in sliced bell peppers, radishes, or even fresh herbs like mint. Just be mindful that adding too many watery veggies might dilute the marinade.
What can I use as a substitute for garlic?
If you’re not a fan of garlic or need an alternative, try a small amount of garlic powder or even minced shallots to keep that subtle aromatic bite.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about how the Marinated Cucumbers, Tomatoes, and Onions Recipe takes humble ingredients and transforms them into a refreshing, flavorful salad that complements so many meals. Whether you’re grilling in the backyard or simply looking for a light, tasty side, this recipe is a winner every single time. Give it a try and watch how it becomes one of your go-to dishes that guests will ask for again and again.
Print
Marinated Cucumbers, Tomatoes, and Onions Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and vibrant marinated salad featuring crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and sharp onions, tossed in a tangy garlic and vinegar dressing. Perfect as a light side dish or a healthy snack, this no-cook recipe is quick to prepare and bursting with fresh flavor.
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)
Instructions
- Prepare Cucumbers: Wash cucumbers thoroughly and slice them thinly to ensure they absorb the marinade well.
- Prepare Tomatoes and Onions: Halve the cherry or grape tomatoes and thinly slice the onion for a balanced mix of textures.
- Make Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using to create a flavorful dressing.
- Combine Ingredients: Place cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions in a large bowl, then pour the marinade over the vegetables evenly.
- Toss and Marinate: Gently toss the vegetables to coat with the marinade, cover the bowl, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Serve: Toss the salad once more before serving, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs for added aroma and color.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate the salad for several hours or overnight.
- Add fresh herbs such as dill, parsley, or basil for extra freshness.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your spice preference.
- This salad can be served as a side dish or a light snack.
- Use different types of vinegar based on availability and taste preference.
