Easy Marinated Cucumber, Tomato & Onion Salad (Perfect Summer Side!)

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Easy Marinated Cucumber, Tomato & Onion Salad (Perfect Summer Side!)

Fresh, vibrant, and packed with flavor, Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad is the ultimate summer side dish that checks all the right boxes — it’s quick to make, nutrient-rich, low in calories, and bursting with tangy-sweet goodness. Whether you’re planning a backyard BBQ, a picnic in the park, or simply need a healthy meal prep option, this salad delivers crisp texture and bold flavor with every bite.

Why This Salad is a Must-Have for Summer

The brilliance of this salad lies in its simplicity and versatility. Using just a few pantry staples and fresh vegetables, this dish becomes more flavorful the longer it sits — making it an ideal make-ahead recipe. Plus, it’s:

  • Vegan, gluten-free, and low-carb
  • Dairy-free and mayo-free – perfect for outdoor events
  • Budget-friendly – made with affordable ingredients
  • Hydrating and light, perfect for hot weather
  • A colorful, visually appealing addition to any summer spread

Ingredients for the Ultimate Marinated Salad

The quality of your ingredients matters. Use fresh, ripe vegetables and high-quality oil and vinegar for the best results.

  • 2 cucumbers, thinly sliced (preferably English or Persian cucumbers for fewer seeds)
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved (or 2 large garden tomatoes, chopped)
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup apple cider vinegar (or substitute white vinegar for sharper flavor)
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (optional but enhances balance of acidity)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano (or Italian seasoning for complexity)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional garnish for brightness)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Results

1. Prepare the Vegetables

Begin by washing and slicing your vegetables. Use a sharp knife or mandoline for even, thin slices of cucumber and onion. Halve the cherry tomatoes or dice the large ones. Place everything into a large mixing bowl.

2. Whisk the Marinade

In a separate bowl, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano. The sugar will dissolve quickly, balancing out the acidity of the vinegar.

3. Combine and Toss

Pour the marinade over the sliced vegetables. Toss everything thoroughly to ensure each piece is coated evenly. The salad should look glossy and well-seasoned.

4. Let it Marinate

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Ideally, let it sit for 2 hours or overnight. The longer the salad marinates, the more intense the flavor becomes as the vegetables absorb the tangy vinaigrette.

5. Garnish and Serve

Right before serving, sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil. This final touch adds color and a hint of freshness.

Flavor Variations and Add-Ins

This salad is endlessly customizable. Try these delicious variations to suit your preferences:

  • Add feta cheese or mozzarella pearls for a Mediterranean twist
  • Throw in sliced radishes for extra crunch
  • Swap vinegar: Use red wine vinegar for deeper acidity, or rice vinegar for mild sweetness
  • Add avocados just before serving for creaminess
  • Use dill instead of oregano for a classic deli-style cucumber salad flavor

Perfect Pairings for Every Occasion

This salad shines as a side dish and pairs beautifully with:

  • Grilled meats: chicken, steak, or lamb
  • Fish and seafood: especially grilled shrimp or salmon
  • Plant-based mains: black bean burgers, tofu skewers, or chickpea patties
  • BBQ classics: ribs, hot dogs, or pulled pork
  • Sandwiches and wraps: as a fresh, acidic contrast

Tips for Storage and Meal Prep

  • Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Best served cold or at room temperature.
  • The salad will continue to marinate and develop flavor over time.
  • Avoid freezing, as the vegetables will lose texture upon thawing.

Nutritional Benefits

This salad is not just tasty—it’s also packed with nutrients:

  • Cucumbers: high in water content, hydrating, and low-calorie
  • Tomatoes: rich in antioxidants like lycopene and vitamin C
  • Onions: contain quercetin and support immune health
  • Olive oil: a heart-healthy fat with anti-inflammatory benefits
  • Apple cider vinegar: known to help regulate blood sugar and improve digestion

Together, these ingredients form a gut-friendly, anti-inflammatory, and nutrient-dense dish suitable for nearly every diet.

Serving Ideas Beyond the Plate

Looking for creative ways to enjoy this salad?

  • Tuck it into pita pockets with hummus or falafel
  • Use as a topping for grilled protein bowls
  • Layer it into mason jars for a portable, pretty lunch
  • Serve on crostini or bruschetta for a quick appetizer
  • Stir into cooked quinoa or couscous for a fuller meal

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, and you should! The flavor deepens the longer it marinates.

Do I have to use sugar?
No. It’s optional. If you’re avoiding sugar, simply omit or use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit.

Can I use white onion or yellow onion instead of red?
Yes, but red onion adds a milder, slightly sweet flavor that complements the vinegar best.

Is this salad keto-friendly?
Yes! Just skip the sugar and ensure your vinegar has no added carbs.

Final Thoughts: A Summer Staple You’ll Make Again and Again

Marinated Cucumber, Tomato & Onion Salad is more than just a simple side dish — it’s a celebration of summer’s best produce. With its crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, sharp onion slices, and zesty marinade, this refreshing salad is sure to become a go-to recipe for every gathering, meal prep session, or light lunch at home.

Versatile, affordable, and incredibly satisfying, this is one salad you’ll find yourself making on repeat.

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