Fresh & Tangy Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad

This Fresh & Tangy Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad is the perfect side dish for any meal. It’s light, refreshing, and packed with flavor. With the crispness of cucumbers, the sweetness of tomatoes, and the zingy sharpness of onions, all marinated in a tangy vinaigrette, this salad is sure to become your new favorite go-to!

Why You’ll Love Fresh & Tangy Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad

• Refreshing & Light: Perfect for warm weather, this salad is full of fresh, crisp veggies that are cool and hydrating.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 10 minutes with a simple marinade that does all the work for you.
• Tangy Flavor: The vinegar-based dressing gives this salad a satisfying tang that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes and the freshness of the cucumbers.
• Versatile: This salad is perfect for BBQs, picnics, or as a light side to a hearty dinner. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead option—let it marinate for extra flavor!

Ingredients

Cucumbers: Thinly sliced for a cool, crunchy texture.
Tomatoes: Chopped into bite-sized pieces, adding a burst of sweetness.
Red Onion: Sliced thin for a mild but flavorful bite.
Olive Oil: The base of the dressing, providing richness and smoothness.
White Vinegar: Adds a tangy acidity to balance the flavors.
Sugar: Just a pinch to bring out the natural sweetness of the veggies.
Salt & Pepper: To taste, bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Dried Oregano: For a little herby depth.
Fresh Parsley (optional): Chopped for a burst of color and fresh flavor.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables:
Slice the cucumbers thinly, chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces, and slice the red onion into thin strips.

Make the Marinade:
In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, and oregano until well combined.

Combine & Marinate:
Place the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions in a large bowl. Pour the marinade over the veggies and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Let the salad marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator—this lets all the flavors soak in and meld together.

Garnish & Serve:
Before serving, give the salad a final toss and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve chilled.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 120
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 230mg
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 13g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Marinate Time: 30 minutes (or longer if desired)
Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve Fresh & Tangy Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad

This marinated salad pairs well with almost anything, making it a great addition to your meals. Here are some ideas to serve it with:

• Grilled Meats: Perfect alongside grilled chicken, steak, or pork chops for a balanced meal.
• Sandwiches & Wraps: Serve it as a side to a hearty sandwich or wrap for a refreshing crunch.
• BBQ Feasts: Ideal for picnics, BBQs, or summer cookouts. It complements grilled burgers and hot dogs beautifully.
• Light Lunch: Toss it with some greens and a protein like grilled shrimp or feta cheese for a light but satisfying lunch.

Additional Tips

• Marinate Longer: For a more intense flavor, marinate the salad overnight. The vegetables will absorb even more of the tangy dressing!
• Customize It: Add some fresh herbs, like basil or dill, to switch up the flavor profile.
• No Red Onion?: If red onion isn’t your thing, you can use sweet onion or even green onions for a milder flavor.
• Use Different Vinegar: Experiment with different types of vinegar, such as apple cider vinegar or balsamic, for a unique twist.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A1: Yes! This salad gets even better the longer it sits. It can be made a few hours or even the day before.

Q2: Can I use a different type of onion?
A2: Absolutely! You can substitute the red onion with yellow or sweet onion, or even green onions for a milder flavor.

Q3: How long can I store leftovers?
A3: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the vegetables will soften the longer they sit, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Q4: Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
A4: Yes, feel free to add bell peppers, olives, or even radishes for extra crunch and flavor.

Q5: Is this salad vegan?
A5: Yes! This salad is naturally vegan and vegetarian-friendly.

Q6: Can I use this as a topping for tacos?
A6: Absolutely! This salad would be a delicious and refreshing topping for tacos or nachos.

Q7: How can I make this salad spicier?
A7: Add some sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes to give it a spicy kick.

Q8: Can I make the dressing without oil?
A8: If you want to skip the oil, you can use a little extra vinegar or try a fat-free alternative like Greek yogurt.

Q9: How do I make this salad more filling?
A9: You can add protein such as grilled chicken, chickpeas, or feta cheese to make it more substantial.

Q10: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of chopped ones?
A10: Yes, fresh tomatoes work perfectly! Just chop them up to your preferred size, and they’ll add extra juiciness to the salad.

Conclusion

This Fresh & Tangy Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad is a simple, flavorful dish that’s bursting with fresh ingredients. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue, adding it to a weeknight dinner, or just enjoying it on its own, it’s sure to impress. The tangy marinade brings everything together in the best way possible—refreshing, light, and absolutely delicious! Enjoy!

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