This refreshing marinated cucumber, onion, and tomato salad is a perfect side dish! It’s bright, crunchy, and oh-so-simple to whip up with just a few fresh ingredients.
You can enjoy it cold, making it an ideal companion for summer meals. It’s like a taste of sunshine on your plate! Plus, my secret? I love letting it sit in the fridge for a while to soak in all the flavors. 🍅🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers add crunch. If you prefer, you can use Persian cucumbers for a sweeter taste or even pickling cucumbers for a more tangy bite.
Tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes are key for sweetness. If they’re out of season, try using cherry tomatoes; just slice them in half for added texture.
Red Onions: They offer a nice bite. If you want something milder, swap in green onions or sweet onions like Vidalia.
Fresh Herbs: I love using parsley or cilantro, but you can try dill for a different flavor profile. Whatever fresh herb you have on hand works!
Vinegar: While red wine vinegar adds a nice tang, apple cider vinegar works great, too. Just keep the flavors balanced!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from Marinating?
Marinating is all about allowing ingredients to soak up flavors. Here’s how to maximize the taste:
- Mix your dressing first, then combine it with the veggies to ensure even coating.
- Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Give it another gentle toss just before serving. If it looks a little dry, a splash more olive oil or vinegar can freshen things up!
Enjoy this salad fresh, crispy, and bursting with flavor! Perfect as a cooling side on warm days.
Easy Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Vegetables:
- 2 medium cucumbers, peeled and diced
- 2 large tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
Seasoning & Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and it’s best to let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. So, in total, you just need around 45 minutes before it’s ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Veggies:
In a large bowl, mix together the diced cucumbers, diced tomatoes, and the thinly sliced red onion. This colorful combination will be the base of your salad!
2. Add the Fresh Herbs:
Sprinkle the chopped parsley or cilantro into the bowl with the vegetables. This will add a fresh burst of flavor to your salad.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and, if you like a bit of heat, the optional red pepper flakes. Mix everything until it’s well combined and slightly thickened.
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the veggies and gently toss everything together so that all the ingredients are nicely coated with the dressing.
5. Chill and Marinate:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes. This marinating time helps the flavors mix and intensify!
6. Final Toss and Serve:
Before serving, take the salad out of the fridge and give it another gentle toss. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Feel free to add a little more salt or a dash of vinegar if desired.
7. Serve:
Serve this refreshing salad chilled alongside grilled meats, fish, or even enjoy it as a light snack on its own. It’s simple, healthy, and delicious!
Enjoy your crisp, tangy, and flavorful Easy Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad!
FAQ for Easy Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Vinegar?
Absolutely! While red wine vinegar adds a nice tang, you can substitute it with white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or even balsamic vinegar for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the taste will vary slightly with each type!
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
If you want to make this salad ahead of time, you can! Just be sure to make it at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 2 days; however, the cucumbers might soften a bit over time. If you prefer extra crunch, consider adding the cucumbers shortly before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Just give it a good toss before serving to redistribute the dressing and flavors!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in or substitute other vegetables like bell peppers, radishes, or even avocado for extra flavor and texture. Just keep the overall balance of the dressing intact to maintain the taste!
