Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: Made with minimal ingredients, this salad comes together quickly and effortlessly.
- Versatile: Perfect as a side dish for grilled meats, sandwiches, or even on its own.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: The flavors deepen and improve with marinating, making it an excellent option for meal prep or entertaining.
- Healthy and Fresh: Packed with hydrating cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and zesty onions, it’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 3 medium tomatoes, cut into wedges or thick slices
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare the Vegetables
Slice the cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion. Combine them in a large mixing bowl. - Make the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, black pepper, and oregano. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. - Toss the Salad
Pour the marinade over the vegetables. Toss until all the vegetables are well-coated. - Marinate
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight, to let the flavors meld beautifully. - Garnish and Serve
Before serving, toss the salad again to redistribute the marinade and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Serves 6 as a side dish
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Marinating Time: At least 1 hour (up to overnight for best flavor)
Variations
- Add Feta Cheese: Sprinkle crumbled feta for a Mediterranean twist.
- Try Different Herbs: Use dill, basil, or cilantro in place of parsley for a unique flavor.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- Experiment with Vinegars: Swap white vinegar with balsamic or red wine vinegar for a deeper flavor.
- Include Bell Peppers: Add thinly sliced bell peppers for extra crunch and color.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. No reheating is necessary.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of onion?
Yes, you can use white or yellow onions if you prefer a milder or sweeter flavor.
2. Is it necessary to marinate the salad?
While you can eat it right away, marinating enhances the flavors significantly.
3. Can I use cherry tomatoes?
Absolutely! Halve cherry tomatoes for a bite-sized option.
4. What can I substitute for sugar?
You can use honey, maple syrup, or skip it altogether if you prefer no added sweetness.
5. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, it’s even better when made a day in advance as the flavors meld beautifully.
6. What protein pairs well with this salad?
Grilled chicken, fish, or tofu are excellent options to make it a complete meal.
7. Can I use fresh oregano instead of dried?
Yes, but use a bit more fresh oregano, as its flavor is milder than dried.
8. How do I prevent the cucumbers from becoming soggy?
Use firmer cucumbers like English or Persian varieties and avoid over-marinating.
9. Can I make this without oil?
Yes, skip the oil and increase the vinegar slightly for a lighter version.
10. Can I freeze this salad?
No, freezing is not recommended as the vegetables will lose their texture.
Conclusion
This classic marinated cucumber, tomato, and onion salad is a versatile and refreshing recipe that fits seamlessly into any meal plan. Its simple ingredients, customizable nature, and make-ahead convenience make it a must-try dish. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a quick side for weeknight dinners, this salad is sure to become a household favorite.
Classic Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6 as a side dish
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Classic marinated cucumber, tomato, and onion salad is a crisp, refreshing side dish featuring hydrating cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and zesty onions. Perfect for summer barbecues or as a light side for hearty meals.
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 3 medium tomatoes, cut into wedges or thick slices
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables
Thinly slice the cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion. Combine them in a large mixing bowl. - Make the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, black pepper, and oregano. Adjust seasoning to taste. - Toss the Salad
Pour the marinade over the vegetables and toss until evenly coated. - Marinate
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight, to allow flavors to meld. - Garnish and Serve
Before serving, toss the salad again and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add crumbled feta or fresh herbs like dill or basil.
- Use firmer cucumbers (e.g., English or Persian) to maintain crispness.
- This salad can be made up to a day ahead for deeper flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour (minimum)
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
