This refreshing cucumber, tomato, and onion salad is super easy to whip up! Just toss fresh veggies with a zesty marinade for a colorful side dish that’ll brighten any meal.
The crunchiness of the cucumbers paired with juicy tomatoes is a match made in heaven. I love making this salad in warm weather—so light and tasty, it’s like a garden party in a bowl! 🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: I like using English cucumbers because they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin. You can also use regular cucumbers; just peel them if you prefer a milder flavor.
Tomatoes: Ripe, juicy tomatoes are key! Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes work well. If fresh tomatoes are hard to find, canned diced tomatoes in juice can work in a pinch.
Red Onion: Red onions are sweeter and milder, perfect for salads. If you want less sharpness, soak sliced onions in cold water for 10 minutes before adding them!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds great flavor. However, any neutral oil like canola or grapeseed will work if you’re looking for something lighter.
Vinegar: Red wine vinegar gives a nice tang. You can swap it with apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile or lemon juice for freshness.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Salad?
Marinating the salad is essential to enhance flavors. To ensure every bite is tasty:
- Mix and coat the vegetables well with the marinade to let each piece absorb the flavors.
- Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This waiting time is crucial—it’s when the flavors really come together!
- Before serving, taste the salad. You might want to adjust the salt or vinegar based on your preference!
Enjoy this simple, refreshing salad as a side dish or a light meal, and feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs or other veggies!
Easy Marinated Cucumber Tomato Onion Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large cucumbers, peeled and diced
- 3 medium ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, for the dressing
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano, for seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar, (optional, balances acidity)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour to chill in the refrigerator. The longer it sits, the better the flavors combine, so it’s perfect for making ahead!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Vegetables:
Start by dicing the cucumbers and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces, and slice the red onion thinly. Place all these fresh veggies in a large mixing bowl. If you’re using parsley or cilantro, chop it finely and add it to the bowl for an extra burst of flavor.
2. Preparing the Marinade:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and sugar (if using). Make sure everything is well mixed to create a lovely dressing.
3. Combining Elements:
Pour the marinade over the bowl of diced vegetables. Gently toss everything together so that the veggies are well coated with the dressing. This will help all those fresh flavors come alive!
4. Chilling the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 1 hour. This waiting time is essential for letting the flavors meld together beautifully.
5. Adjusting and Serving:
When you’re ready to serve, take the salad out of the fridge and give it a gentle stir. Taste a bit and adjust the salt or vinegar if needed—sometimes a little extra kick is all it needs! Serve it chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy the refreshing, tangy goodness!
This vibrant salad is not only easy to make, but it also looks beautiful on the table and is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your fresh, tasty creation!
FAQ About Easy Marinated Cucumber Tomato Onion Salad
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, avocados, or even radishes for extra crunch. Just be sure to adjust the marinade to complement the flavors of any new additions!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just note that the cucumbers may release some water, so give it a stir before serving again!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! This salad is perfect for making in advance. Just prepare it up to a day ahead of serving, and keep it refrigerated. The flavors will actually get better as they marinate!
What’s the Best Way to Adjust the Flavor?
If you’d like more tang, add a splash of vinegar or some lemon juice just before serving. For a sweeter taste, a touch more sugar can balance the acidity. Just taste and adjust according to your preference!
