Marinated Cucumbers Onions Tomatoes

This marinated cucumbers onions and tomatoes salad brings a burst of freshness to any summer meal thanks to its crisp veggies and tangy vinaigrette. It is always a crowd-pleaser at our backyard barbecues and takes just a few everyday ingredients to whip up.

This dish first became a family staple when I needed a refreshing side for grilled chicken and now it is a must at all our picnics.

Ingredients

• Cucumbers: give a satisfying crunch and soak up the marinade look for firm smooth cucumbers with no soft spots
• Cherry or grape tomatoes: add sweetness use ripe deeply colored ones for the best flavor
• Red or white onion: brings zest and bite choose onions that feel dense and have papery skins
• Apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar: adds tanginess always opt for high-quality vinegar with bright flavor
• Extra virgin olive oil: delivers richness and helps marry the flavors pick a fruity aromatic oil
• Fresh garlic: punches up aroma and savor use plump cloves and mince finely for best dispersion
• Fresh parsley or dill: brightens up the salad fresh is key for that garden flavor
• Salt and pepper: heighten all the other tastes sea salt brings more depth
• Red pepper flakes: optional for a gentle kick start small and adjust to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables:

Wash cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt or residue Slice the cucumbers very thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline for uniform texture Halve the cherry or grape tomatoes Thinly slice the onion so it melds easily with the salad

Mix the Marinade:

In a mixing bowl combine your chosen vinegar extra virgin olive oil minced garlic salt and pepper Use a whisk and blend until slightly thickened and the mixture looks a bit cloudy If you like a little heat add in red pepper flakes

Combine Everything:

In a large serving bowl combine the prepared cucumbers tomatoes and sliced onion Make sure everything is scattered evenly for good flavor in every bite

Marinate the Salad:

Pour your marinade over the salad ingredients Toss the veggies gently but thoroughly so they are fully coated with the dressing

Chill and Rest:

Cover the bowl with a lid or wrap and let chill in the refrigerator for at least thirty minutes for best results let marinate a few hours or overnight The flavors meld and intensify with time

Finish and Serve:

Remove the salad from the fridge toss again and sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs for a burst of color and freshness Serve cold

Save

Fresh dill is my favorite herb for this salad because it reminds me of the ones my grandmother used to grow We would pick the dill together in her garden and sprinkle it over the finished dish before serving It is a memory that always brings me back to summer days spent with family

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator They stay fresh for up to two days The cucumbers may lose a little crunch after a while but the flavors deepen as they sit If you want even more texture add a handful of diced fresh cucumber before serving

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have cherry tomatoes you can use any ripe tomato chopped into bite size pieces White onion offers a milder taste but red onion gives a vibrant color Fresh basil mint or cilantro can step in for parsley or dill and each will give a unique twist to the salad A touch of lemon zest also brightens up the vinaigrette

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats roasted fish or as part of a picnic spread It works equally well as a topping for toasts or tucked into pita with hummus for a quick lunch You can also add feta cheese or chickpeas to turn it into a more substantial meal

Cultural Context

Marinated vegetable salads like this one have roots in traditional Mediterranean and Eastern European cuisines These dishes were often made to use up garden bounty and preserve the freshness of seasonal produce The addition of vinegar and olive oil has been popular for generations thanks to both flavor and preservation

Recipe FAQs

→ What kind of vinegar works best?

Apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar both add a nice tang. Choose based on your flavor preference.

→ Do I need to peel the cucumbers?

Peeling is optional. Leave skins on for extra crunch and nutrients, or peel for a milder texture.

→ How long should the vegetables marinate?

A minimum of 30 minutes is suggested, but a few hours or overnight enhances the flavors even more.

→ Can fresh herbs other than parsley or dill be used?

Basil, cilantro, or chives work well for adding fresh notes to complement the vegetables.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Enjoy within two days for best texture and flavor.