Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes

 

🥒 Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes: A Refreshing Summer Side

When the weather warms up, nothing beats a crisp, tangy salad that’s easy to prepare and bursting with fresh flavors. Enter Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes — a bright, colorful medley that’s as simple as it is satisfying. This classic side dish brings together crunchy cucumbers, sweet-tart tomatoes, and sharp onions, all soaked in a zesty vinegar marinade that elevates every bite.

Whether you’re grilling, packing a picnic, or craving something light alongside your main course, this marinated salad adds the perfect fresh and tangy contrast to any meal.

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🥗 Why You’ll Love This Salad

• Quick and easy to make with just a few ingredients

• Naturally fresh and light, perfect for warm days

• Tangy marinade enhances the natural flavors of veggies

• Versatile side that pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or pasta

• Make ahead friendly — flavors improve with time

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🧂 Ingredients

Makes about 4 servings:

• 2 cups cucumbers, thinly sliced

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered

• 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced

• ½ cup white vinegar or apple cider vinegar

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp sugar

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp dried dill or fresh chopped dill (optional)

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👩‍🍳 How to Make Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes

1. Prepare the Vegetables

• Thinly slice cucumbers and red onion.

• Halve or quarter the cherry tomatoes depending on size.

2. Make the Marinade

• In a bowl, whisk together vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, pepper, and dill until sugar and salt dissolve.

3. Combine and Marinate

• Place cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes in a large bowl or jar.

• Pour marinade over the vegetables and toss gently to coat evenly.

4. Chill

• Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally 3–4 hours or overnight, to allow flavors to meld.

5. Serve

• Give the salad a quick stir before serving.

• Garnish with extra fresh dill or parsley if desired.

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💡 Tips for the Best Marinated Salad

• Use fresh, firm cucumbers like Kirby or English cucumbers for crunch.

• Adjust sugar and vinegar levels to your taste — more vinegar for tang, more sugar for balance.

• Add other veggies like bell peppers or radishes for variety.

• Serve chilled for the freshest taste.

• Use a glass or non-reactive bowl to prevent any metallic taste from the vinegar.

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🥗 Serving Suggestions

• Perfect alongside grilled chicken, fish, or burgers.

• A refreshing topping for sandwiches or tacos.

• Toss with cooked pasta or quinoa for a light summer salad.

• Serve as a side dish at BBQs, picnics, or potlucks.

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🧊 Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• The flavors will intensify over time but cucumbers may soften slightly.

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🎉 Final Thoughts

This Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes salad is a simple, fresh way to brighten up any meal. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you get a tangy, crisp, and flavorful side that’s perfect for summer or any time you crave something light and refreshing.

Try it once, and it’ll quickly become a go-to salad for your table.