Marinated Cucumbers Onions Tomatoes

Nothing beats the crisp refreshing crunch of marinated cucumbers onions and tomatoes especially on a hot summer day This is my go to dish for backyard barbecues potlucks and easy family dinners because it comes together quickly with barely any prep time leaves everyone raving and tastes even better the next day

The first time I brought this to a neighbor’s cookout it disappeared before the burgers even finished grilling Now my friends ask for the recipe every single year

Ingredients

• Cucumbers: Choose firm cucumbers with smooth skins for crunch Persian or English varieties work well for fewer seeds
• Cherry or grape tomatoes: Bursting with sweetness and color Heirloom cherry tomatoes add extra flavor
• Red or white onion: Adds zing and layers of mild bite soak in cold water for a few minutes to mellow if you prefer
• Apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar: Brings brightness and marinates quickly Use a raw unfiltered vinegar for deeper flavor
• Extra virgin olive oil: Gives richness and helps flavors blend opt for a robust oil for the best taste
• Garlic: Infuses spice choose a fresh plump clove for the most aroma
• Fresh parsley or dill: Lifts the salad with herbal notes Dill especially pairs so well with cucumbers
• Salt and pepper: Essential to balance the acid use flaky salt or fresh cracked pepper when possible
• Red pepper flakes: Give a little warmth use as much or little as you like

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Produce:

Wash the cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly Slice the cucumbers very thinly using a knife or mandolin for best texture Cut the tomatoes in half Slice the onion as thinly as you can to ensure it softens well in the marinade

Make the Marinade:

In a mixing bowl whisk together the vinegar olive oil minced garlic salt pepper and red pepper flakes Whisk until well combined This mixture is the key to bringing out the flavors and gently pickling the vegetables

Combine and Marinate:

Add the cucumbers tomatoes and onions to a large bowl Pour the marinade over the vegetables and toss very gently with your hands or a spatula so nothing gets bruised Make sure all the veggies are well coated This really allows the flavors to penetrate

Chill and Let the Flavors Develop:

Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least thirty minutes but preferably a few hours The flavors meld better the longer it sits and the veggies take on a slight pickle throughout

Toss and Serve:

Right before serving give everything a gentle toss again Taste and adjust seasoning if needed Sprinkle with fresh parsley or dill right on top for a burst of color and flavor Serve cold for the crunchiest texture

Pin it

I absolutely adore the way fresh dill transforms this salad into something memorable Sometimes the scent alone reminds me of my grandma’s summer kitchen where she would toss together giant bowls for our entire family

Storage Tips

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days The veggies will soften a bit and leach more liquid but the flavors only grow bolder If serving after a day or two drain off excess juice and add a fresh sprinkle of herbs before bringing to the table

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap the cucumbers for zucchini or summer squash slices in a pinch Red onions can be replaced with sweet onions or even a handful of chopped scallions If fresh herbs are not available a teaspoon of dried dill or parsley will still add a nice herbal note

Serving Suggestions

This salad is a superstar alongside roasted meats grilled tofu or stuffed in pita with hummus It makes a great topping for grain bowls or can be diced smaller as a fresh salsa for tacos I have even piled it atop avocado toast for a burst of acidity and crunch

Cultural Historical Context

Refreshing vinegar marinated salads like this one show up in so many food traditions from Mediterranean to Eastern European tables It’s a dish my family has enjoyed for generations especially when gardens are overflowing with cucumbers and backyard tomatoes are at their juiciest

Pin it

The simplest dishes like this one always steal the spotlight at gatherings and have such a comforting nostalgia factor for me The bright colors crisp texture and mouthwatering dressing remind me why I love sharing food with people I care about

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How long should the vegetables marinate?

For best flavor, chill at least 30 minutes, though a few hours or overnight deepens the taste.

→ Can I use white onion instead of red?

Yes, both red and white onions work well, though red onions provide a sweeter, milder bite.

→ What herbs pair best in this dish?

Fresh parsley and dill are classic, but basil or mint can also complement the cool, tangy flavors.

→ Is it necessary to peel the cucumbers?

Peeled or unpeeled cucumbers are both suitable; leaving the skin on adds color and texture.

→ How long does this keep in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh and crisp for up to 2 days.

→ Can I use a different vinegar?

Apple cider and red wine vinegars both work, or substitute with white wine vinegar for a milder taste.