If you’re craving a dish that bursts with fresh flavors, crisp textures, and a perfect tangy punch, you’ve got to try this Fresh & Tangy Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad Recipe. It’s a vibrant medley of cool cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and sharp red onion all married together in a zesty, vinegar-based dressing that brightens every bite. This salad is wonderfully refreshing on a warm day, incredibly easy to throw together, and offers a great balance of savory, sweet, and tangy notes. Whether as a light lunch or a side dish for your favorite grilled meal, this recipe will quickly become one of your go-tos for fresh eating.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this salad, simplicity is key. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building the salad’s flavor profile, providing a perfect harmony of crispness, juiciness, and zing. Let’s dive into the must-have ingredients that make this dish shine.
- 2 large cucumbers: Thinly sliced for that refreshing crunch that cools the palate.
- 4 medium tomatoes: Cut into wedges or chunks to add juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 small red onion: Thinly sliced to lend a mild, slightly sweet bite that complements the veggies.
- 1/4 cup white vinegar: The acid that gives this salad its signature tangy zip.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds smoothness and richness to balance the vinegar’s sharpness.
- 1 tablespoon sugar: Just enough to soften the acidity and add a subtle sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors of the vegetables.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that perks up the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a hint of savory depth without overpowering freshness.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill or parsley (optional): A fresh herbal note that brightens and beautifies the salad.
How to Make Fresh & Tangy Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Vegetables
Start by washing your cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion thoroughly. Thinly slice the cucumbers and onion to create delicate layers that will soak up the dressing perfectly. Cut your tomatoes into generous wedges or chunks so they maintain some bite, balancing the crispness of the cucumber and onion.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, combine the white vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Whisk or shake well until the sugar dissolves and the mixture emulsifies into a smooth, tangy dressing. This simple blend will become the flavor powerhouse of your salad.
Step 3: Combine and Toss
Place the sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions into a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and gently toss everything together until each piece is lightly coated with the tangy mixture. Take care not to mash the tomatoes; you want them to keep their shape and provide juicy bursts.
Step 4: Marinate and Chill
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least one hour. This step is crucial because it allows all those zesty, sweet, and savory flavors to mingle and deeply infuse the vegetables, transforming the salad into something truly vibrant and mouthwatering.
Step 5: Add Fresh Herbs and Serve
Just before serving, sprinkle your chopped fresh dill or parsley over the salad. This final touch adds a lovely color contrast and an extra dose of freshness that elevates the overall experience.
How to Serve Fresh & Tangy Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish of fresh dill or parsley makes this salad look and taste special. You can also add a few cracked black pepper flakes or a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to enhance aroma and flavor just before serving.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, especially grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even simple sandwiches. Its bright acidity and crisp texture cut through richer, heavier foods, making it a perfect summer side that balances any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the salad in individual small glass jars or hollowed-out cucumber cups for a pretty, portable option. You can also turn this salad into a colorful topping for crusty bruschetta or use it as a filling for pita bread sandwiches for a fresh, healthy lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors deepen wonderfully over time, but the tomatoes will soften further, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a short period.
Freezing
This salad isn’t ideal for freezing due to the high water content of cucumbers and tomatoes, which becomes mushy once thawed. Stick to refrigeration for storage to preserve its crisp texture.
Reheating
Since this is a cold marinated salad, reheating is not recommended. Instead, bring it to room temperature by sitting out for 15 minutes before serving if it’s been chilled.
FAQs
Can I use different types of vinegar?
Absolutely! While white vinegar provides a classic tang, apple cider vinegar gives a milder, slightly sweeter flavor that works beautifully with this salad. Feel free to experiment to find your favorite.
Is it necessary to chill the salad for an hour?
Marinating for at least one hour allows the flavors to fully meld and softens the veggies slightly for the best taste. You can eat it sooner, but the flavor profile won’t be as rich and integrated.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Of course! Sliced bell peppers, radishes, or celery can add extra crunch and color. Just keep in mind the balance of flavors so the original fresh and tangy vibe isn’t overwhelmed.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes! This Fresh & Tangy Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad Recipe is completely plant-based and vegan-friendly, making it a perfect choice for everyone.
How long does the salad keep its texture?
The cucumbers and onions hold up nicely for about 24 hours in the fridge. Tomatoes soften more quickly, so aim to enjoy the salad within two days for the best crunch and freshness.
Final Thoughts
This Fresh & Tangy Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad Recipe is a wonderful celebration of simple ingredients that come together to create an unforgettable dish. Whether you’re looking for a quick side or a fresh snack, this salad delivers unbeatable flavor with minimal effort. I truly hope you give it a try and make it a staple in your kitchen the way I have—it’s pure, refreshing joy in every bite!
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Fresh & Tangy Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Fresh & Tangy Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad is a vibrant and refreshing side dish perfect for warm weather. Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and sharp red onions are marinated in a light, tangy dressing made with white vinegar, olive oil, and a hint of garlic and sugar. The flavors meld beautifully after chilling, making it an easy, no-cook salad that pairs well with a variety of meals.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 4 medium tomatoes, cut into wedges or large chunks
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
Dressing
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Optional Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill or parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced cucumbers, cut tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion to create the fresh base for the salad.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the white vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until the mixture is well combined and slightly emulsified.
- Combine salad and dressing: Pour the dressing over the mixed vegetables and toss gently but thoroughly to coat every piece evenly in the tangy mixture.
- Marinate: Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to absorb the dressing.
- Serve: Before serving, optionally garnish with freshly chopped dill or parsley for added aroma and color. Serve chilled or at room temperature for best taste.
Notes
- This salad tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to marinate and develop.
- For a slightly sweeter and more complex flavor, substitute white vinegar with apple cider vinegar.
- Use fresh herbs like dill or parsley to enhance the salad’s freshness and presentation.
- Adjust sugar and salt according to your preference for sweetness and seasoning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
