Marinated Cucumbers

Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes: Fresh, Tangy, and Addictive

If you’ve never been a salad person, this Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes Salad might just change your mind. Bursting with fresh flavors, tangy dressing, and a perfect balance of crunch and juiciness, this simple salad is incredibly addictive. It’s perfect as a side dish for any meal, a light lunch, or a refreshing snack on a warm day. The best part? It comes together quickly and uses ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This salad is vibrant, flavorful, and surprisingly satisfying. The crisp cucumbers, sweet and slightly sharp onions, and juicy tomatoes soak up a tangy marinade that brings all the flavors together beautifully. It’s light yet bold, making it a perfect complement to heavier dishes like grilled meats, roasted chicken, or pasta. Plus, it keeps well in the fridge, so the flavors get even better as it sits.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 3–4 ripe tomatoes, diced or sliced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for extra tang)
• 1 teaspoon sugar or honey (balances the acidity)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1–2 tablespoons fresh herbs, chopped (parsley, dill, or basil)

Step-by-Step Instructions

H2: Preparing the Vegetables

1. Wash all vegetables thoroughly.
2. Slice the cucumbers thinly using a knife or mandoline for uniform pieces.
3. Thinly slice the onion into rings or half-rings, depending on your preference.
4. Dice or slice the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.

H2: Making the Marinade

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, sugar or honey, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2. Adjust the seasoning to taste—more vinegar or lemon juice for tang, more sugar for a slightly sweeter finish.

H2: Combining the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, add cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes.
2. Pour the marinade over the vegetables and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
3. Sprinkle fresh chopped herbs over the top and give it one last gentle toss.

H3: Tips for the Best Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad

• Slice Thinly: Thin slices allow the marinade to soak in fully, enhancing flavor.
• Let it Sit: For the best taste, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. The flavors meld beautifully over time.
• Customize Herbs: Dill adds a bright, classic flavor; parsley is fresh and mild; basil gives it a slightly sweet, aromatic twist.
• Optional Add-Ins: Add thinly sliced bell peppers, radishes, or a few olives for extra color and flavor.

H2: Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes:

• Grilled or roasted meats such as chicken, beef, or lamb
• Sandwiches, wraps, or burgers for a fresh contrast
• Pasta dishes or rice bowls for added crunch and tang
• Served alone as a light, refreshing snack

H2: Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. The salad may release some liquid over time—just give it a gentle toss before serving. This salad is perfect to make ahead of time as the marination enhances the flavors.

Conclusion
This Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes Salad is fresh, tangy, and totally addictive. It’s a simple, healthy, and versatile side dish that can elevate any meal. Even if you’re not usually a salad person, the crisp vegetables, zesty marinade, and fresh herbs create a flavor combination that’s hard to resist. Try this recipe, and you may just find yourself reaching for it again and again.