Description

Cool, crisp, and full of flavor, this Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes salad is the perfect make-ahead side dish for summer dinners, quick lunches, or picnic spreads. With just a handful of ingredients and no cooking required, this easy recipe brings together fresh cucumbers, sweet tomatoes, and punchy onions, all soaked in a tangy herb marinade. Whether you’re searching for quick sides, healthy snack ideas, or easy dinner recipes, this bright, vinegar-kissed salad checks every box.

Ingredients

Scale

2 English cucumbers

1 pint cherry tomatoes

1 medium red onion

½ cup apple cider vinegar

¼ cup olive oil

1 tablespoon sugar

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Wash and slice the cucumbers into ¼-inch rounds. Halve the cherry tomatoes. Thinly slice the red onion.

2. In a bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, pepper, Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes (if using).

3. Add the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions to a large bowl or glass jar. Pour the marinade over the vegetables and gently toss to coat.

4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.

5. Stir or shake occasionally to keep the veggies coated in the marinade.

6. Serve chilled, on its own or as a side to your favorite dishes.

Notes

Use a glass container or mason jar for best flavor and to avoid any reaction with the vinegar.

Make sure vegetables are mostly submerged in the marinade for even flavor distribution.

This salad tastes even better the next day — it’s ideal for meal prep and make-ahead dishes.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Salad / Side Dish
Method: No-cook
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (approx.)
Calories: 90
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: marinated salad, summer side dish, easy recipe, healthy snack, picnic food, cucumber tomato onion