This Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes salad is the epitome of summer simplicity, offering a burst of crisp, tangy flavors that perfectly complement any outdoor gathering or light meal. The combination of fresh vegetables and a zesty vinaigrette creates a refreshing dish that’s both satisfying and healthy.
Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, packing a picnic, or just looking for a quick and tasty side, this salad is sure to impress. It’s easy to prepare, customizable with your favorite herbs, and best enjoyed chilled. Plus, it’s vegan-friendly and gluten-free, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
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1 red onion, thinly sliced
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3 ripe tomatoes, diced
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¼ cup white balsamic vinegar
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⅓ cup olive oil
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1 garlic clove, minced
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1 tsp honey (or maple syrup)
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh herbs (dill, basil, or parsley)
Directions:
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Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and slice the cucumbers, dice the tomatoes, and thinly slice the onion. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, soak the slices in ice water for 10 minutes.
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Make the Dressing: In a jar, combine the white balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, honey, salt, and pepper. Secure the lid and shake vigorously until well mixed.
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Combine and Marinate: In a large bowl, add the prepared vegetables and fresh herbs. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.
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Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, to allow the flavors to meld.
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Serve: Give the salad a final toss before serving. Enjoy as a refreshing side dish or topping for grilled meats.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 30–120 minutes (including marination)
Kcal: Approximately 60 kcal per serving
Servings: 4–6 servings
In the heart of summer, when gardens overflow with ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and aromatic herbs, there’s no better way to celebrate the bounty than with a fresh and tangy marinated salad. This Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes dish is a timeless recipe, beloved in many cultures for its refreshing flavor, health benefits, and ease of preparation.
From Southern American kitchens to Eastern European dinner tables, variations of this dish have made their way into family meals and cookouts for generations. It’s rustic yet refined, colorful yet simple an ideal companion to grilled meats, sandwiches, or served as a light lunch all on its own.
A Touch of History
Cucumber and tomato salads have been enjoyed for centuries, especially in regions with warm climates where hydration and light meals are preferred during hot weather. In the American South, this salad is often found on summer tables, marinated in vinegar and sugar to bring out a sweet-and-sour contrast that balances beautifully with grilled or fried foods.
Eastern European versions may incorporate sour cream, dill, or even yogurt-based dressings, but the combination of vinegar and oil remains classic across cultures. This specific rendition leans into Mediterranean flavors with olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, and fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or dill creating a bright, clean taste.
Health Benefits
This salad isn’t just delicious—it’s also incredibly good for you. Here are a few reasons why:
- Hydration and Fiber: Cucumbers are over 95% water, making them a fantastic food for hydration, especially during the summer months. Along with tomatoes, which are also water-rich and high in fiber, this salad promotes healthy digestion and helps keep you feeling full and refreshed.
- Antioxidant-Rich: Tomatoes are packed with lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to reduced risk of heart disease and certain cancers. Onions contain quercetin, another antioxidant known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
- Low in Calories: With no added sugar and healthy fats from olive oil, this salad is nutrient-dense and naturally low in calories, making it an ideal choice for weight management or healthy eating plans.
- Vegan and Gluten-Free: This dish accommodates most dietary restrictions and preferences, offering a wholesome side that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for health.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
While there are many cucumber-tomato salads out there, this marinated version elevates the concept with its vinaigrette-style dressing. By allowing the vegetables to soak in the mixture for at least 30 minutes, their natural juices blend with the vinegar and oil to create a rich, tangy-sweet flavor profile that’s more complex than a typical chopped salad.
Here’s what makes this recipe a standout:
- No Cooking Required: Perfect for hot days when you don’t want to turn on the stove. Just chop, mix, and chill.
- Customizable: Want a Mediterranean twist? Add feta cheese and olives. Craving something spicy? Toss in a few chili flakes or sliced jalapeños. The recipe acts as a flexible base for your creativity.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: In fact, it gets better with time! The longer the vegetables marinate, the more robust the flavor becomes. This makes it a go-to for potlucks, BBQs, or meal prep.
- Versatile Pairing: Serve it alongside grilled chicken, steak, burgers, or even as a topping for toast or rice bowls. Its acidity helps cut through richer dishes, acting almost like a palate cleanser.
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Use Ripe, Fresh Produce: The flavor of this dish hinges on the quality of your ingredients. Opt for vine-ripened tomatoes, firm cucumbers, and sweet red onions.
- Slice Consistently: Thin, even slices ensure that all pieces marinate evenly and absorb the flavor uniformly.
- Let It Sit: While the salad can be eaten immediately, marinating for at least 30 minutes brings out the best flavor. If you can, prepare it a few hours ahead and let it chill in the fridge.
- Adjust to Taste: The basic recipe is a perfect balance of tangy and savory, but feel free to tweak the sweetness, acidity, or seasoning according to your preference.
- Don’t Forget the Herbs: Fresh herbs make all the difference. Dill adds a delicate flavor, basil brings a sweet, peppery punch, and parsley adds a clean, grassy finish.
Serving Suggestions
This marinated salad is the ultimate summer side dish, but its uses go far beyond that:
- Lunch Bowls: Add to quinoa or farro with a protein like grilled shrimp or chickpeas for a wholesome lunch.
- Picnic Staple: Transport-friendly and resilient in warm weather, it’s ideal for outdoor meals.
- Appetizer: Serve with crusty bread or pita chips as a refreshing starter.
- Sandwich Companion: Pairs beautifully with sandwiches, wraps, or even hot dogs and sausages.
A Dish for Every Table
Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this recipe belongs in your repertoire. It’s fast, affordable, endlessly adaptable, and packed with flavor and nutrition. More than just a salad, it’s a celebration of fresh produce and simple ingredients coming together in perfect harmony.
So the next time you’re at the farmer’s market or looking for a quick yet healthy dish to round out your meal, remember this classic: Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes. It’s the kind of dish that reminds you why you fell in love with real food in the first place—colorful, vibrant, and made to be shared.
Absolutely! Here’s a polished and engaging conclusion you can add to the end of your website article on Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes:
Conclusion
Simple, vibrant, and bursting with garden-fresh flavor, this Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes salad is the kind of dish that never goes out of style. It’s a beautiful reminder that great food doesn’t have to be complicated just fresh ingredients, balanced seasoning, and a little time to marinate. Whether you’re serving it at a summer cookout, packing it for a picnic, or enjoying it as a light meal, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Not only is it healthy and refreshing, but it’s also incredibly versatile and easy to prepare, making it a staple you’ll return to again and again. It’s more than just a side dish it’s a celebration of seasonal produce and the power of simplicity in the kitchen. Add it to your weekly menu and taste the difference a fresh, marinated salad can make.