If you’re looking for a fresh and vibrant side dish that’s bursting with color and flavor, the Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad Recipe is an absolute winner. This refreshing salad brings together crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and sharp red onions, all coated in a tangy, herb-infused dressing. It’s a perfect balance of textures and flavors that feels light yet satisfyingly bright, making it an ideal companion for everything from grilled meats to a casual lunch. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to throw together, so you can enjoy a homemade taste of summer any time you crave something fresh.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this salad lies in its simplicity, where each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s the crunch, the tang, or the vibrant splash of color that makes you smile. Every item is easy to find and essential for that perfect balance of flavors.
- 2 large cucumbers: Thinly sliced for a crisp, cooling crunch that balances the acidity in the dressing.
- 3 medium tomatoes: Wedges or thick slices add juiciness and a lovely burst of natural sweetness.
- 1 medium red onion: Thinly sliced to bring a gentle sharpness and vivid purple hue to the salad.
- 1/4 cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar): Provides the signature tang that makes the flavors pop beautifully.
- 3 tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and helps bind the dressing and veggies together.
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional): A subtle hint of sweetness to soften the acidity without overpowering.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the fresh flavors and draws out juices from the vegetables.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds a mild kick and warms the overall flavor profile.
- 1 tsp dried oregano (or Italian seasoning): Infuses the salad with herbaceous notes, giving it a Mediterranean touch.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (optional): Chopped for a bright, fresh garnish that lifts the entire dish.
How to Make Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Fresh Vegetables
Start by placing your thinly sliced cucumbers, vibrant tomato wedges, and delicate slices of red onion into a large mixing bowl. This fresh trio is the foundation of your Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad Recipe and sets the stage for all the delicious flavors to come.
Step 2: Whisk the Tangy Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together your vinegar, olive oil, sugar (if using), salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. This simple but flavorful dressing is the key to transforming these fresh ingredients into a memorable salad with every bite.
Step 3: Marinate the Salad
Pour the dressing over your mixed vegetables and toss everything together thoroughly. Make sure every slice is well-coated so that the tangy, herby flavors meld perfectly with the crisp, juicy veggies.
Step 4: Let the Flavors Develop
Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This rest period lets the salad’s flavors mingle and deepen, ensuring each bite bursts with fresh, balanced taste. If you have time, letting it sit overnight makes it even better.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, give your salad one last toss to redistribute the dressing. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and an extra layer of fresh flavor that really brightens the dish.
How to Serve Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is a classic choice, but adding some crumbled feta cheese or thinly sliced fresh basil leaves can also elevate this salad beautifully. Lemon zest or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can add an unexpected but delightful twist, making each serving feel a little special.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with a wide range of dishes. It’s a fresh foil to grilled chicken, lamb, or fish, and its crispness complements the warmth of summer barbecues perfectly. It also shines alongside hearty Mediterranean meals or even simple sandwiches, giving your meal a fresh, wholesome crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress guests, serve the salad in hollowed-out tomatoes or cucumber boats for a fun presentation. Layer the ingredients in a glass jar for a portable lunch or arrange them on a vibrant platter garnished with edible flowers or microgreens. The visual appeal of this Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad Recipe is just as delightful as its taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover salad refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The flavors continue to develop, but the vegetables may soften slightly, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a short time after making.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well. The high water content in cucumbers and tomatoes causes them to become mushy after freezing, significantly altering the texture and taste.
Reheating
Since it’s a fresh, cold salad, reheating is not recommended. Instead, it’s perfect straight from the fridge or at room temperature, allowing you to enjoy its crisp and refreshing qualities fully.
FAQs
Can I use other types of vinegar?
Absolutely! White vinegar and apple cider vinegar both work well, offering different subtle flavor profiles. You can also experiment with red wine vinegar or rice vinegar to add your personal twist to the salad.
Is the sugar necessary in the dressing?
Adding sugar is optional and helps balance the acidity of the vinegar if you prefer a slightly sweeter dressing. Feel free to omit it if you like your salad more tangy or prefer to keep it sugar-free.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Definitely! Adding bell peppers, radishes, or even olives can add interesting textures and flavors. Just keep the core trio of cucumber, onion, and tomato to stay true to this classic salad.
How long should I let the salad marinate?
Letting it marinate for at least one hour in the refrigerator allows the flavors to blend perfectly. For an even more vibrant flavor, marinate overnight, but no longer than that to keep the vegetables fresh and crisp.
Is this salad suitable for vegan diets?
Yes! The Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad Recipe is naturally vegan, making it an easy and delicious option for those following plant-based diets.
Final Thoughts
This Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad Recipe is one of those dishes that effortlessly elevates any meal, thanks to its fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. It’s a joy to make, easy to customize, and refreshing to enjoy on warm days or anytime you need a bright, flavorful boost. I encourage you to give this salad a try—you might just find it becoming one of your all-time favorites for good reason.
Print
Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and tangy Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad featuring thinly sliced cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and crisp red onions tossed in a flavorful vinegar and olive oil dressing with herbs and spices. Perfect as a refreshing side dish or light appetizer.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 3 medium tomatoes, cut into wedges or thick slices
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
Dressing
- 1/4 cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
Garnish
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced cucumbers, tomatoes cut into wedges or thick slices, and thinly sliced red onions.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, granulated sugar if using, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano or Italian seasoning until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Toss the salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the vegetables and toss well to ensure all pieces are evenly coated with the flavorful marinade.
- Chill the salad: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour or up to overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the vegetables to soak up the dressing.
- Serve: Before serving, toss the salad again and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired for a pop of color and added freshness.
Notes
- For best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors develop.
- The sugar in the dressing is optional and can be omitted for a more tart salad.
- Use apple cider vinegar as a substitute for white vinegar for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Fresh herbs like parsley add brightness but can be omitted if unavailable.
- This salad is best served cold and eaten the same day for optimal freshness.
