Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad (Just 5 Minutes) Recipe
A refreshing and quick marinated cucumber, tomato, and onion salad that can be prepared in just 5 minutes and tastes best after chilling for at least 2 hours. This tangy and flavorful salad combines crisp cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and sweet onions with a zesty vinegar-based marinade and herbs, making it a perfect side dish for any meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes (including marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 3 medium cucumbers, peeled and sliced 1/4 inch thick (about 4 cups)
- 1 medium white onion, sliced into thicker rings
- 3 medium tomatoes, largely chopped
Marinade
- 1/2 cup vinegar of your choice (white, apple cider, or red wine vinegar recommended)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse black pepper (or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (olive oil preferred)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the peeled and sliced cucumbers, sliced onion rings, and chopped tomatoes. Pour in the vinegar, sugar, water, salt, black pepper, vegetable oil, dried basil, and dried parsley. Mix thoroughly to ensure all vegetables are evenly coated with the marinade.
- Refrigerate: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours. This resting time allows the vegetables to marinate and absorb all the flavors, resulting in a deliciously tangy and well-seasoned salad.
- Serve: After marinating, serve the salad chilled. You can choose to serve it with the marinade liquid for extra flavor or drain the liquid if preferred. Either way, the veggies will be flavorful and crisp.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh and firm cucumbers and ripe tomatoes.
- Adjust the vinegar and sugar to suit your taste preference for more tanginess or sweetness.
- This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- You can add fresh herbs like dill or cilantro to vary the flavor.
- Use a mild vegetable oil or extra virgin olive oil for a better taste.
- Serve as a side dish with grilled meats or as a light summer salad.
