Cool, crisp, and tangy, marinated cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes make the perfect no-cook side dish for any occasion. Fresh vegetables are tossed in a zesty vinegar-based marinade and chilled until the flavors meld beautifully. This refreshing salad is quick to prepare, versatile, and ideal for summer gatherings, picnics, or simple weeknight meals.

Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy – Just slice, whisk, and marinate—no cooking required.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.
Light & Healthy – Packed with fresh vegetables and heart-healthy olive oil.
Versatile – Pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or can be enjoyed on its own.
Crowd-Pleaser – A refreshing side that works for family dinners, BBQs, and potlucks.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

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)

Directions

Wash cucumbers and slice into ¼-inch rounds. Halve cherry tomatoes. Thinly slice the onion.
In a bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, pepper, Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes.
Add cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions to a large bowl or glass jar. Pour marinade over the vegetables and toss to coat.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, stirring or shaking occasionally.
Serve chilled as a light side dish or refreshing snack.

Servings and Timing

Yield: 6 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours (minimum)
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Variations

Fresh Herbs – Swap dried Italian herbs for fresh parsley, dill, or basil.
Add Peppers – Bell peppers or banana peppers add extra crunch.
Spicy Twist – Increase red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños.
Different Vinegar – Try red wine vinegar or balsamic for a new flavor.
Low-Sugar Option – Replace sugar with honey, maple syrup, or omit it.

Storage/Reheating

Store in a glass container or mason jar for best flavor.
Keep refrigerated for up to 4 days.
Stir or shake occasionally to redistribute the marinade.
This dish is best enjoyed cold—no reheating required.

FAQs

How long should I marinate the vegetables?

At least 2 hours, but overnight gives the best flavor.

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?

Yes, just peel and remove seeds if they’re large.

Do I have to use cherry tomatoes?

No, grape tomatoes or diced regular tomatoes also work.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I make this recipe sugar-free?

Yes, omit the sugar or substitute with a sugar alternative like stevia.

What type of container is best for marinating?

A glass jar or bowl with a lid works best to avoid reacting with the vinegar.

How do I keep the vegetables crisp?

Don’t slice them too thin, and avoid marinating longer than 3 days.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Yes, chickpeas, feta cheese, or grilled chicken make it a fuller meal.

Will this work for meal prep?

Absolutely, it tastes even better the next day and stores well.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just scale up the ingredients proportionally—it’s great for feeding a crowd.

Conclusion

Marinated cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes are a refreshing, tangy, and healthy side dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. With minimal prep and no cooking required, it’s the perfect recipe for summer barbecues, light lunches, or meal prep. Crisp veggies soak up a flavorful marinade, making every bite a burst of freshness. Try this simple yet versatile salad once, and it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.