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Marinated Cucumbers Onions Tomatoes

Featured in: Quick & Fresh Meals

Enjoy a vibrant salad combining crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and zesty onions, all tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings, quick to prepare, and benefits from marinating for extra flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill add brightness, while optional red pepper flakes lend subtle heat. It complements grilled meats or stands alone as a refreshing side. Serve chilled for best flavor and texture, making it ideal for meal prep or entertaining.

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Updated on Fri, 31 Oct 2025 15:28:00 GMT
Crisp marinated cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes, vibrant summer salad in a bowl. Pin Recipe
Crisp marinated cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes, vibrant summer salad in a bowl. | fordishes.com

This Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes recipe is a refreshing and flavorful side dish, perfect for summer gatherings or everyday meals. Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and zesty onions are marinated in a tangy vinaigrette, creating a vibrant and delicious salad.

I first made this salad for a family picnic and it was an instant hit. The fresh flavors and tangy marinade were the perfect complement to our main course and everyone asked for seconds.

Ingredients

  • Cucumbers: 2, thinly sliced
  • Cherry or grape tomatoes: 1 pint, halved
  • Red or white onion: 1 small, thinly sliced
  • Apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar: 1/4 cup
  • Extra virgin olive oil: 2 tbsp
  • Garlic: 1 clove, minced
  • Fresh parsley or dill: 1 tbsp, chopped
  • Salt and pepper: to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional): 1/2 tsp

Instructions

Prep the veggies:
Wash and slice the cucumbers, halve the tomatoes, and thinly slice the onion.
Make the marinade:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together vinegar, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add red pepper flakes if using.
Combine and marinate:
Combine cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions in a large bowl. Pour the marinade over the vegetables and toss gently to coat evenly.
Chill:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably a few hours or overnight.
Serve:
Toss again before serving and garnish with fresh herbs.
Refreshing marinated cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes tossed in zesty vinaigrette. Pin Recipe
Refreshing marinated cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes tossed in zesty vinaigrette. | fordishes.com

Sharing this salad always reminds me of summer evenings on our porch, enjoying good food and laughter with loved ones.

Variations

You can substitute dill for parsley or add thinly sliced bell peppers for extra crunch and color.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs excellently with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a topping for burgers.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen as the salad marinates longer.

Brightly colored marinated cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes, a perfect side dish for gatherings. Pin Recipe
Brightly colored marinated cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes, a perfect side dish for gatherings. | fordishes.com

A refreshing salad like this brings brightness to every meal and is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use different vinegars for the marinade?

Yes, apple cider vinegar and red wine vinegar both work well and offer unique flavor notes. Experiment to suit your taste.

→ How long should the vegetables marinate?

For best flavor, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For a deeper taste, chill a few hours or overnight before serving.

→ What herbs pair well in this dish?

Fresh parsley or dill are ideal. You may also use basil or cilantro for a twist on the classic flavors.

→ Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Yes, sliced bell peppers, radishes, or avocado can be added for extra color and flavor.

→ Is it suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. The flavors improve with time, making it a great option for preparing ahead of busy meals or events.

→ What dishes pair well with this salad?

It pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or served alongside a sandwich for a light lunch.

Marinated Cucumbers Onions Tomatoes

Tangy vinaigrette brings fresh cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes together in a bright, flavorful summer side.

Prep Duration
15 mins
0
Complete Time
15 mins
Recipe by Fordishes Ava Reynolds


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine American

Makes 4 Number of Servings

Diet Details Vegan-Friendly, No Dairy, Gluten-Free, Low in Carbs

Ingredient List

Produce

01 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
02 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
03 1 small red or white onion, thinly sliced
04 1 clove garlic, minced
05 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or dill

Pantry

01 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar
02 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
03 Salt, to taste
04 Black pepper, to taste
05 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

Step 01

Prepare Vegetables: Wash cucumbers, tomatoes, and onion thoroughly. Slice cucumbers into thin rounds, halve the tomatoes, and thinly slice the onion.

Step 02

Mix Vinaigrette: In a separate bowl, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Stir in red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 03

Combine Ingredients: Place sliced cucumbers, halved tomatoes, and onion into a large mixing bowl.

Step 04

Marinate Salad: Pour the vinaigrette over the vegetables. Toss gently until evenly coated.

Step 05

Chill and Garnish: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to marinate, preferably a few hours or overnight. Toss again before serving and garnish with fresh herbs.

Needed Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board

Nutrition Information (per serving)

For informational use only—doesn't replace personalized medical direction.
  • Calories: 80
  • Fats: 4.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 10 g
  • Proteins: 1.5 g