Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad Recipe
If you are looking for a fresh, vibrant, and utterly delightful side dish, this Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad Recipe is an absolute must-try. It brings together crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and sharp red onions in a harmonious blend, all brightened up by a tangy, herb-infused dressing that’s both simple and full of flavor. Ready in just 10 minutes, this salad is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick lunch, a potluck favorite, or a refreshing companion to your grilled meals. Dive in and discover how this humble combination can transform your salad game.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing too fancy here, just fresh, straightforward ingredients that pack a punch once they come together. Each element adds its own texture and flavor, resulting in a colorful medley that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced: Crisp and cool, they provide a refreshing crunch that balances the acidity of the dressing.
- 3 medium tomatoes, cut into wedges or thick slices: Their juicy sweetness brings a vibrant burst of color and flavor to the salad.
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced: Adds a sharp bite that livens up the mix without overpowering it.
- 1/4 cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar): The acid backbone that gives the salad its bright, zingy character.
- 3 tbsp olive oil: Smooths the sharpness of vinegar and helps meld the flavors together.
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional): Just a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity, but totally optional.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances natural flavors and draws out the vegetable juices, improving texture.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and depth without stealing the show.
- 1 tsp dried oregano (or Italian seasoning): Infuses the salad with a fragrant, herbaceous note that feels wonderfully Mediterranean.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional): A fresh, bright herbaceous finish that elevates the presentation and taste.
How to Make Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by washing all your fresh produce thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers thin enough to provide that satisfying crunch, but not so thin that they become mushy. Cut the tomatoes into wedges or thick slices to keep their juiciness intact, and make sure your red onion slices are thin, so they blend nicely without overwhelming the salad’s balance.
Step 2: Combine the Vegetables
Grab a large bowl and gently combine the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions. Take care to toss them lightly so the slices don’t get bruised; you want to maintain the integrity of each piece to enjoy a range of textures in every bite.
Step 3: Make the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together the white vinegar, olive oil, granulated sugar (if using), salt, black pepper, and dried oregano or Italian seasoning. This dressing is the heart and soul of the salad, providing a perfect balance of tangy, savory, and aromatic flavors that will elevate those fresh veggies.
Step 4: Toss the Salad
Pour your prepared marinade over the combined vegetables. Using tongs or salad servers, gently toss to make sure every slice is coated with that flavorful dressing. This step ensures each bite bursts with that signature tangy goodness and herbaceous aroma.
Step 5: Marinate
Cover your salad bowl and refrigerate it for at least one hour, or even better, overnight. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, softening the onions and deepening the overall taste.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, give the salad a final gentle toss and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of green freshness that adds both color and a delicate herbal note. Now your Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad Recipe is ready to impress!
How to Serve Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic garnish here, lending bright color and a subtle herb flavor that pairs wonderfully with the salad’s bold vinaigrette. You might also try a few sprigs of fresh basil or a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese to add an extra layer of richness and texture that invites even more flavor exploration.
Side Dishes
This salad shines as a side dish next to grilled chicken, fish, or even a juicy steak. It’s the perfect crisp counterpoint to heavier mains, cutting through richness with its lively acidity and fresh vegetables. For a lighter meal, serve it alongside pita bread and hummus, or as part of a colorful mezze spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving this salad in individual small bowls for a casual dinner party, or plate it on a large platter topped with olives and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a more elegant, Mediterranean-inspired presentation. Adding edible flowers or thin lemon slices can also make the dish visually dazzling and inviting for guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad Recipe keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the salad from absorbing other fridge odors. Keep in mind that the cucumbers and tomatoes may release more juice over time, so give the salad a good toss before serving again.
Freezing
Because of the fresh vegetables and the high water content, this salad is not suitable for freezing. The texture will break down and become mushy once thawed, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a couple of days refrigerated.
Reheating
This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not typically recommended. If you prefer, remove the salad from the fridge about 15-20 minutes before serving to allow it to come to room temperature and maximize its flavor.
FAQs
Can I substitute the red onion with something milder?
Absolutely! If red onion feels too strong for your palate, try thinly sliced sweet onions or even shallots. They still provide the needed sharpness but with a gentler bite that blends nicely with the other salad ingredients.
Is it possible to make this salad vegan?
This Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad Recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, so it’s perfect for plant-based diets. Just stick with the ingredients listed and avoid adding any cheese or animal-based dressings.
What vinegar works best in this salad?
White vinegar and apple cider vinegar are fantastic choices due to their crisp acidity. You can also try red wine vinegar or even lemon juice for a slightly different twist. Each will bring its own subtle character to the salad.
How long does the salad marinate to get the best flavor?
At least one hour in the fridge is ideal, but letting it marinate overnight really enhances the mingling of flavors. The vinegar softens the onions and draws out the cucumber’s freshness, creating a beautifully balanced salad.
Can I add other vegetables or herbs to this salad?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with additions like bell peppers, radishes, or fresh mint and dill for bursts of extra color and flavor. Just be mindful not to overpower the core ingredients that make this salad so special.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely hope you give this Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad Recipe a whirl because it’s one of those versatile, crowd-pleasing dishes that never disappoints. It’s fresh, easy to prepare, and highlights the amazing flavor that simple ingredients can offer when combined thoughtfully. Whether you’re dressing up a casual lunch or rounding out a dinner party menu, this salad is a delicious way to brighten your day. Enjoy every crunchy, tangy bite!
Print
Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (including marinating time)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad that combines crisp vegetables with a tangy vinaigrette. Perfect as a light side dish, this easy-to-make salad features fresh cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and sharp red onions marinated in a flavorful blend of vinegar, olive oil, and herbs.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 3 medium tomatoes, cut into wedges or thick slices
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
Marinade
- 1/4 cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
Garnish
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Thinly slice the cucumbers and red onion, and cut the tomatoes into wedges or thick slices. Place all the vegetables into a large mixing bowl.
- Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the white vinegar, olive oil, granulated sugar if using, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano until well combined. Adjust seasoning to your taste preference.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the prepared marinade over the vegetables in the large bowl. Thoroughly toss all the ingredients so that they are evenly coated with the marinade.
- Marinate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and intensify.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, give the salad another toss to redistribute the marinade. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired for added color and flavor. Serve chilled.
Notes
- For a sweeter salad, add the optional sugar to the marinade.
- Use apple cider vinegar as a flavorful alternative to white vinegar.
- The salad can be prepared a day ahead, as marinating enhances the flavors.
- Try adding other fresh herbs like dill or basil for variation.
- Serve this salad as a side dish to grilled meats or as a light, healthy snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
