Fresh & Tangy Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad Recipe
If you’re craving something bright, refreshing, and bursting with flavor, this Fresh & Tangy Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together crisp cucumbers, zesty red onions, and juicy tomatoes all lovingly tossed in a vibrant, tangy dressing that elevates every bite. Whether you want a quick side dish or a cool salad to beat the heat, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s as simple as it is sensational.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple, fresh ingredients combine to create a perfect balance of texture and flavor. Each one plays a starring role in making this salad irresistibly fresh and inviting.
- 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced: Adds a refreshing crunch and coolness that’s absolutely essential.
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced: Provides sharpness and color contrast, giving the salad a lively bite.
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped: Offers juiciness and sweetness, brightening every forkful.
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar: Delivers the tangy punch that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Smooths out the acidity and adds richness for a luscious finish.
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar (optional): A touch of sweetness to balance the tang without overpowering.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the natural flavors for a perfectly seasoned salad.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: A pinch of warmth to keep things interesting.
- 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning: Adds a fragrant, herby note that lifts the salad to the next level.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional): For a burst of greenery and fresh aroma when serving.
How to Make Fresh & Tangy Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by slicing the cucumber and red onion thinly so they absorb the dressing perfectly and offer a delightfully crisp texture. Chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces to release their juicy sweetness into the salad.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey or sugar (if using), salt, pepper, and dried oregano or Italian seasoning. This is where the magic happens—the tangy, sweet, and herby dressing that brings the salad to life.
Step 3: Combine the Salad
Place all the prepared vegetables into a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss everything together until every slice and chunk is beautifully coated with the tangy marinade.
Step 4: Marinate
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This wait time allows the flavors to meld perfectly, softening the onions’ sharpness and blending all the delicious tastes into one harmonious dish.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Before serving, sprinkle the salad with fresh parsley or basil if you want to add a lovely herbaceous touch. Serve chilled to enjoy the crisp, refreshing quality that makes this salad so addictive.
How to Serve Fresh & Tangy Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your salad with fresh herbs like parsley or basil not only adds visual appeal but also lifts the flavor profile with a burst of freshness. Feel free to add a sprinkle of crumbled feta or toasted nuts for a crunchy dimension.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even a hearty grain bowl. It’s the perfect light side to complement richer mains and adds a vibrant splash of color to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the salad in individual glass jars for picnics or potlucks, or pile it generously on top of crostini for a quick appetizer. Another idea is to mix it with cooked quinoa or couscous to turn it into a refreshing, texture-rich lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover salad keeps well covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors deepen with time, making the salad even more delicious, though the cucumbers might release a bit more liquid.
Freezing
Because of the fresh vegetables and dressing, this salad is not suitable for freezing as it will become watery and lose its crispness upon thawing.
Reheating
This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Reheating is not recommended since it will affect the fresh texture and tangy zing that make this dish so special.
FAQs
Can I use other types of vinegar in this recipe?
Absolutely! While apple cider vinegar lends a mild, fruity tang, white wine vinegar or red wine vinegar can also work well, each bringing subtle differences to the flavor.
Is it necessary to marinate the salad for 30 minutes?
Marinating for at least 30 minutes really helps the flavors meld and softens the onions. However, if you’re in a rush, you can serve it immediately, though the taste won’t be quite as developed.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan, especially if you choose to leave out the optional honey or substitute it with maple syrup for sweetness.
What can I add to make the salad more filling?
Incorporate cooked beans, chickpeas, or grains like quinoa or bulgur to turn this salad into a nourishing and satisfying meal.
How do I prevent the salad from becoming soggy?
Use fresh, firm cucumbers and tomatoes, slice the vegetables thinly, and keep the salad chilled until serving. Toss just before serving if you plan to prepare in advance to maintain crispness.
Final Thoughts
You truly can’t go wrong with this Fresh & Tangy Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad Recipe. It’s an effortless way to brighten up any meal with fresh flavors and satisfying textures. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—you’ll love how the simple ingredients come together to create something wonderfully delicious, light, and unforgettable.
Print
Fresh & Tangy Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and tangy marinated cucumber, onion, and tomato salad that combines crisp vegetables with a flavorful apple cider vinegar dressing. Perfect as a light side dish or refreshing snack, this salad is quick to prepare and can be chilled to enhance its vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
Dressing
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar (optional for sweetness)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
Garnish
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Slice the cucumber and red onion thinly, and chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces to ensure even flavor distribution in the salad.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey or sugar (if using), salt, black pepper, and dried oregano or Italian seasoning until the mixture is well combined and emulsified.
- Combine the Salad: Place the sliced cucumber, onion, and chopped tomatoes into a large mixing bowl, ready to be dressed.
- Marinate: Pour the prepared dressing over the vegetables and gently toss everything together, making sure all the pieces are coated evenly with the tangy dressing.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the vegetables to absorb the flavors from the marinade fully.
- Serve: Before serving, garnish the salad with chopped fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve chilled for a refreshing and vibrant salad experience.
Notes
- This salad is best served chilled, allowing enough time for the marinade to permeate the vegetables.
- For a sweeter dressing, adjust the amount of honey or sugar according to your preference.
- You can substitute Italian seasoning for dried oregano based on what you have available.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or basil add vibrant flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
- This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; however, the vegetables may soften over time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
