This colorful and crisp salad is a breeze to make! Juicy cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and zesty onions come together in a light and refreshing marinade.
This salad is perfect for those hot days when you want something yummy but easy. I love serving it with grilled chicken for a tasty meal. You’re going to want seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: I love using English cucumbers for their thin skin and crunch. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers work fine too. Just make sure to peel them if the skin is too thick!
Cherry Tomatoes: These are perfect for bite-sized goodness. Grape tomatoes are a great substitute if you want more sweetness. You can also use diced regular tomatoes but keep them in larger chunks for texture.
Red Onion: Red onion adds a nice color and mild flavor. If you want something sweeter, go for sweet Vidalia onions. For a milder taste, you could use green onions instead.
Fresh Herbs: Mint and parsley brighten this salad up. If you’re out of mint, dill is a great alternative. For a different flavor, consider adding some basil or cilantro!
How Do I Achieve the Best Flavor in My Salad?
The key to a flavorful marinated salad is the marinade itself. Make sure to whisk the vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, and pepper well. Taste it! If it feels too acidic, add a bit more sugar or oil to balance it out.
- Letting the salad sit in the fridge allows the flavors to meld – aim for at least 30 minutes.
- Before serving, toss it once more, and don’t be afraid to adjust seasonings to your taste.
Enjoy making this salad! It’s so refreshing and a true crowd-pleaser!
Easy Marinated Cucumber Tomato Onion Salad
Ingredients
- 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Time Needed
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and you’ll want to refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors blend perfectly. For even better taste, allow it to marinate for 1-2 hours.
Instructions
1. Combine the Vegetables
Start by preparing your veggies: in a large bowl, mix the thinly sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion. These colorful ingredients will make your salad not just tasty but also visually appealing!
2. Add Fresh Herbs
Next, sprinkle the roughly chopped mint leaves and chopped parsley over the vegetables. These herbs bring a lovely freshness that enhances the overall flavor of the salad.
3. Make the Marinade
Now let’s whip up the marinade! In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the white vinegar, olive oil, optional sugar, salt, and black pepper until everything is well dissolved. This dressing will coat all the veggies nicely.
4. Combine Everything
Pour the marinade over the vegetable and herb mixture. Gently toss everything together until all the veggies are well coated with the dressing. It’s important to be gentle so the tomato halves don’t get squished!
5. Time to Chill
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the fridge. Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes. This gives the flavors a chance to meld. If you have time, marinating for 1-2 hours will make it even better!
6. Toss and Serve
Just before serving, give the salad a good toss again. Taste it and adjust the seasoning with a bit more salt or vinegar if needed. Then, serve it chilled as a refreshing side dish alongside your favorite summer meals!
This vibrant salad delivers a fresh, tangy flavor perfect as a light side or accompaniment to grilled meats and other summer dishes!
FAQ: Easy Marinated Cucumber Tomato Onion Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Vinegar?
Absolutely! While white vinegar or apple cider vinegar works perfectly, you can also experiment with red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that each type will adjust the overall taste slightly.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh, as the cucumbers can get a bit soggy over time. If possible, add the dressing just before serving for the best texture!
Is It Possible to Make This Salad Vegan?
This salad is naturally vegan-friendly! If you choose to include sugar, verify that it’s vegan, as some sugars are processed with bone char. You can omit the sugar if you prefer a low-calorie version!
Can I Add Other Vegetables or Ingredients?
Definitely! This salad is versatile. Feel free to add bell peppers, radishes, or even avocados for extra flavor and texture. Just make sure to cut everything into similar sizes for even marination.
