Name: Marinated Cucumber, Tomato & Onion Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 medium cucumbers, sliced; 2 medium tomatoes, diced; 1 small onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup white vinegar; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

This Marinated Cucumber, Tomato & Onion Salad is a refreshing and tangy dish that’s perfect for any time of year. With the crispness of cucumbers, the juiciness of tomatoes, and the savory touch of onions, it’s a delightful combination of flavors that really comes to life when marinated in a flavorful dressing. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish at a barbecue, bringing it to a picnic, or enjoying it on its own, this salad is sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple yet incredibly flavorful. The marinade infuses the vegetables with a tangy punch, and the crunch of the cucumbers and the burst of tomatoes create a perfect balance of texture and flavor. It’s light, refreshing, and easy to make, making it an ideal dish for both casual meals and more elaborate gatherings. Plus, the best part is that the longer it marinates, the better it gets. It’s a salad that improves over time, and it can easily be customized to suit my taste preferences.

Ingredients

2 medium cucumbers, sliced
2 medium tomatoes, diced
1 small onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup white vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Begin by washing the cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds, dice the tomatoes, and thinly slice the onion.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, diced tomatoes, and onions.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the white vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, pepper, oregano, and garlic powder until the sugar is dissolved and the dressing is well combined.
Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. The longer the salad marinates, the more the flavors will blend.
Give the salad a quick toss before serving and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields about 4 servings. It takes approximately 10 minutes to prep the ingredients, and the marinating time should be at least 30 minutes, though you can leave it for a few hours for deeper flavor.

Variations

Add some herbs: I love to throw in a handful of fresh parsley or cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.
Spicy kick: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the salad.
Add feta cheese: A sprinkle of crumbled feta can bring a creamy contrast to the tangy dressing.
Use different vinegars: I sometimes switch up the white vinegar with balsamic vinegar for a richer flavor.
Incorporate olives: Adding some black or green olives will make the salad even more Mediterranean in flavor.

Storage/Reheating

I recommend storing this salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for about 2-3 days, but the flavors will deepen over time. There’s no need to reheat it, as it’s best served cold. If you’re storing leftovers, make sure to give it a quick toss before serving again.

FAQs

How long can I let the salad marinate?

I typically let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but the longer it sits, the more flavorful it becomes. It’s great after a few hours!

Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Absolutely! While white vinegar is the base for the tangy dressing, you can swap it for apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar for a different flavor profile.

How do I make this salad gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as there are no gluten-containing ingredients in it. Just double-check that your other ingredients (like olive oil and seasonings) are gluten-free.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Definitely! I’ve added bell peppers, radishes, and even zucchini before. Feel free to experiment with whatever fresh veggies you have on hand.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

Yes! This salad keeps well for a few days in the fridge, so it’s a great option for meal prepping. Just keep in mind that the vegetables may soften a bit the longer it sits.

Conclusion

This Marinated Cucumber, Tomato & Onion Salad is one of my favorite go-to dishes when I want something quick, healthy, and full of flavor. It’s perfect for summer picnics, barbecue side dishes, or simply enjoying on a warm day. With minimal effort and a few simple ingredients, this salad delivers a burst of freshness that will make every bite delicious.