Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes Recipe

If you’re craving something crisp, refreshing, and zippy, Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes might just become your new go-to salad. This boldly flavorful combination celebrates peak-season produce, soaking up a tangy-sweet marinade that transforms simple veggies into pure summer magic. Whether you serve it as a light lunch, a juicy side, or the centerpiece at a sunny picnic, this colorful salad bursts with crunch and brightness in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You truly don’t need fancy ingredients to make Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes shine! Each item brings its own character: a little crunch, a hint of sweetness, a splash of tart, and vibrant color. Here’s what you’ll gather:

• 2 cucumbers, thinly sliced: These bring coolness and a juicy, irresistible crunch, setting the foundation for the salad.
• 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved: Sweet and tangy, they add a burst of color and juiciness to every forkful.
• 1 small red or white onion, thinly sliced: Delivers just the right hint of sharpness and balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar: Essential for that signature tang; either vinegar works beautifully.
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Helps marry the flavors and adds a silky, rich finish.
• 1 clove garlic, minced: Subtle but impactful, garlic infuses the marinade with bold flavor.
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill: A pop of freshness to finish and complement the marinated veggies.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season – it’s key to bringing everything together.
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Add this if you like a gentle heat that sits in the background.

How to Make Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes

Step 1: Prep Your Vegetables

Begin by giving your cucumbers and tomatoes a quick rinse under cold water. Then, thinly slice the cucumbers, halve the cherry or grape tomatoes, and slice the onion as thin as you like (the thinner, the more mellow the onion flavor will be). Lay everything out on your cutting board and admire that gorgeous rainbow of garden-fresh produce—you’re already halfway to a delicious Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes salad!

Step 2: Whisk Up the Marinade

Next, grab a mixing bowl and whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. If you like a little kick, sprinkle in those red pepper flakes. This marinade is the secret sauce that gives the salad its crave-worthy tang and subtle warmth, and you’ll be amazed how much flavor it infuses into every bite.

Step 3: Combine and Coat

In a large bowl, toss together the sliced cucumbers, halved tomatoes, and sliced onion. Pour your freshly whisked marinade over the veggies, then gently toss to coat them all evenly. Be careful not to bruise the tomatoes—you want them juicy, not mushy!

Step 4: Marinate and Chill

Cover your bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator. Letting Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes chill for at least 30 minutes (but up to a few hours or even overnight) allows the veggies to soak up every last bit of flavor. The longer they marinate, the more delicious and vibrant the salad becomes.

Step 5: Toss and Garnish

Just before serving, give everything a gentle toss. Sprinkle your chopped fresh parsley or dill over the top, and get ready for the big reveal—a salad that looks as enticing as it tastes. Now, all that’s left is to grab a fork and dig in!

How to Serve Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes

Garnishes

A handful of freshly chopped parsley or dill right before serving brings a punch of color, fragrance, and an extra layer of garden-fresh flavor. If you’re feeling fancy, try a dusting of flaky sea salt or even a few crumbles of feta cheese for a playful twist on classic Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes.

Side Dishes

Pair this tangy, juicy salad with grilled chicken, seared fish, or even a warm hunk of rustic bread to soak up all the tasty marinade. It’s the perfect contrast to anything rich or grilled, making Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes a summer BBQ’s best friend or a simple weeknight meal’s star side.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not serve your Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes on a bed of creamy hummus or spoon it over avocado toast? Pile it high in mason jars for picnics, or layer it with greens and cooked grains for an easy lunch bowl. However you present it, the bold colors and zippy flavors are sure to spark lots of excitement at your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (though that’s a big “if”), simply store Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes in a sealed container in the fridge. It’ll keep perfectly for up to three days, getting even more flavorful as it sits.

Freezing

Unfortunately, this salad isn’t a good candidate for freezing. The high water content in cucumbers and tomatoes means they’ll lose their crisp texture and turn mushy once thawed. For best results, enjoy it fresh from the fridge.

Reheating

This salad is made to be served cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat. In fact, its brisk, chilled flavor is part of the charm of Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes!

FAQs

Can I use different types of vinegar?

Absolutely! While apple cider vinegar and red wine vinegar are both classic choices for Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes, you can experiment with white wine vinegar or even rice vinegar for a subtler flavor. Just be sure to taste and adjust if you’re swapping vinegars.

What other herbs can I use?

Basil and mint both play beautifully with the other flavors here. Try adding a combination of fresh herbs, or whatever you have on hand, to make the salad your own.

How long should I marinate the vegetables?

You’ll notice big flavor after just 30 minutes, but if you let Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes rest for a few hours or overnight, the marinade penetrates even deeper and the texture mellows beautifully. Longer marinating brings out the best in every ingredient.

Can I add other vegetables?

Without a doubt! Sliced bell peppers, radishes, or even a handful of baby spinach turn this classic Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes salad into a custom creation, ready for whatever’s in your crisper drawer.

Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it a welcome addition for almost any guest or gathering. Just double-check your vinegar to be sure if you’re catering to strict dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never tried making Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes at home, there’s truly no better time. It’s quick, simple, and guaranteed to brighten up just about any meal. Go ahead—give it a try, and watch this cheerful salad earn a permanent spot in your kitchen repertoire!

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