This Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes salad is light, crisp, and perfect for warm days or as a side to heavy main dishes. The cucumbers provide crunch, the tomatoes add juiciness, and the onions bring a tangy bite — all soaked in a zesty marinade of vinegar, sugar, and black pepper. Chill it in the refrigerator for a few hours to develop the flavors; it’s best served cool. Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or weeknight dinners, this simple dish brings a burst of summer in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Refreshing: Crisp vegetables with a tangy, lightly sweet marinade.
- Versatile: Perfect alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a picnic spread.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Flavors deepen as it marinates in the fridge.
- Healthy & Low-Calorie: Fresh vegetables with minimal added sugar or fat.
Key Ingredients
- Cucumbers: Crisp and hydrating, the base of the salad. English cucumbers or seeded regular cucumbers both work.
- Tomatoes: Use ripe tomatoes for sweet, juicy wedges. Heirloom, Roma, or beefsteak are great choices.
- Onions: Yellow onions add bold flavor, while red onions provide a milder sweetness. Slice evenly for consistent marination.
- Vinegar: Distilled white or apple cider vinegar gives tanginess to balance the vegetables.
- Vegetable Oil: Adds silkiness and balances the acidity; olive oil is optional for extra flavor.
- Sugar: Rounds out the vinegar for a balanced marinade.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the vegetables.
Ingredients (Serves 6)
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup distilled white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 3 cucumbers, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 3 tomatoes, cut into wedges
- 1 onion, sliced into rings
Optional: Fresh dill, red pepper flakes, or feta cheese for garnish
Instructions
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