Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes

 Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes Recipe

A Crisp, Refreshing Summer Salad You'll Love

Few dishes capture the essence of summer quite like Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes. This light, tangy salad bursts with flavor, combining crisp cucumbers, sweet onions, and juicy tomatoes in a perfectly balanced, slightly sweetened vinegar dressing. It's not just a salad — it's a refreshing side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, barbecue classics, or a simple sandwich.

What makes this recipe irresistible is its simplicity — minimal ingredients, easy preparation, and a flavor profile that improves as it marinates. Whether you're hosting a backyard cookout or craving a quick and healthy side, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

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Ingredients and Their Roles

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in delivering the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Main Ingredients

3 medium cucumbers, peeled and sliced ¼ inch thick

> Cucumbers provide the refreshing crunch that makes this salad stand out. Choose firm cucumbers for the best texture.

1 medium sweet onion, sliced and separated into rings

> Sweet onions add a mild, pleasant flavor without overpowering the salad. Vidalia or Walla Walla onions are ideal.

3 medium tomatoes, cut into wedges

> Tomatoes offer juicy sweetness and a pop of vibrant color. Use firm, ripe tomatoes for the best results.

Marinade Ingredients

½ cup vinegar (white wine vinegar or rice vinegar recommended)

> This tangy base brightens the salad and enhances the vegetables' natural flavors.

¼ cup sugar

> Sugar balances the acidity of the vinegar, adding just the right amount of sweetness.

1 cup water

> Water mellows the marinade, ensuring the flavors are not too sharp or overpowering.

1 teaspoon mustard seeds (optional but recommended)

> Mustard seeds add a subtle pop of texture and spice, elevating the salad's flavor.

Salt and pepper to taste

> Seasoning enhances the overall flavor and ties everything together.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating this delicious marinated salad is simple. Follow these steps for the perfect result:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Peel and slice the cucumbers into ¼-inch thick rounds.

2. Slice the sweet onion into thin rings and gently separate them.

3. Cut the tomatoes into medium-sized wedges for the ideal texture.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the vinegar, sugar, and water until the sugar fully dissolves.

2. Stir in the mustard seeds, if using, for added flavor.

3. Season the marinade with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Combine and Marinate

1. Place the prepared cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes in a large bowl or airtight container.

2. Pour the marinade over the vegetables, ensuring everything is well-coated.

3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (ideally overnight) to allow the flavors to develop. Stir occasionally for even marination.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Before serving, give the salad a final stir.

2. For extra freshness, garnish with chopped parsley, dill, or basil if desired.

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Why This Recipe is Loved

Refreshing & Light: The crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes create a cooling side dish perfect for hot days.

Easy to Prepare: With minimal chopping and a simple marinade, this salad comes together in minutes.

Make-Ahead Friendly: The flavor only improves as it marinates, making it ideal for parties, picnics, or meal prep.

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Pro Tips for the Perfect Marinated Salad

✔️ Choose firm vegetables — Soft or overripe cucumbers and tomatoes can become mushy.

✔️ Slice uniformly to ensure the cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes marinate evenly.

✔️ Don't skip the chill time — Letting the salad marinate for a few hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

✔️ Add herbs for extra flavor — Fresh dill or parsley enhances the tangy, sweet dressing.

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Serving Suggestions

This versatile salad complements a variety of dishes:

Pair it with grilled chicken, steak, or pork chops for a balanced meal.

Serve alongside burgers, hot dogs, or barbecue ribs for a refreshing contrast.

Enjoy it as a light lunch with crusty bread or crackers.

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Conclusion

This Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking a refreshing, flavorful side dish. Its vibrant colors, crisp texture, and tangy-sweet flavor make it a standout addition to any meal. Best of all, it's simple to prepare and can be made ahead — pe

rfect for busy weeknights or relaxing weekends.

Give this easy salad a try, and you’ll see why it’s a timeless favorite that belongs in your recipe collection. Enjoy!