When the weather heats up, I always find myself craving light, crisp, and flavorful dishes. That’s when I reach for my absolute favorite: Refreshing Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes. This colorful and vibrant medley brings out the best of summer’s harvest, and every bite is a burst of freshness that instantly cools you down and lifts your mood.

I love how this easy marinated salad becomes even more delicious as it sits, allowing the tangy dressing to soak into every slice and piece. Whether I’m serving it at a backyard barbecue or just making a quick snack for myself, it never fails to steal the show. It’s simple, it’s healthy, and it’s incredibly addictive in the best way possible.

Why You’ll Love This Refreshing Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes

Quick and Easy: You can whip it up in just a few minutes with basic ingredients.
Incredibly Fresh: Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and sweet onions are a match made in heaven.
Healthy: Loaded with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
Versatile: Perfect as a side dish, light lunch, or picnic staple.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Actually tastes better after marinating for a few hours or overnight.
Low Calorie and Low Carb: A guilt-free addition to any meal.
Customizable: Easy to adjust flavors and ingredients to suit your tastes.

What Kind of Tomatoes Should I Use?

When it comes to this marinated salad, I love reaching for a mix of cherry or grape tomatoes. Their natural sweetness and pop of flavor balance perfectly against the tangy marinade. However, you can also use Roma or heirloom tomatoes if you prefer a juicier bite. Just make sure they’re ripe but firm — you don’t want them turning mushy in the marinade!

Options for Substitutions

Cucumbers: If you can’t find English cucumbers, Persian cucumbers work beautifully — they’re crunchy and have fewer seeds.
Tomatoes: As mentioned, any firm tomato variety works. Even yellow or green tomatoes add a gorgeous twist.
Onions: Red onions can be used instead of white for a slightly milder, sweeter flavor.
Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar gives a wonderful depth, but you can swap in white vinegar, rice vinegar, or even red wine vinegar based on what you have.
Herbs: Fresh dill, basil, or parsley can replace dried herbs if you’re aiming for an even more aromatic salad.
Spices: Want a little heat? Toss in some sliced jalapeños or sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes.
Sweetener: If you like a hint of sweetness, a teaspoon of honey or agave syrup blends nicely into the marinade.

Ingredients for this Refreshing Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes

Cucumbers: Crisp and hydrating, they form the cool, crunchy base of this marinated salad.
Cherry or Grape Tomatoes: Their natural sweetness adds juicy bursts of flavor to every bite.
White Onion: Sliced thin for a sharp, slightly sweet crunch that balances the freshness.
Olive Oil: A silky coating that helps marry all the flavors together.
Vinegar: Adds the perfect tanginess to make the vegetables sing — apple cider vinegar is my go-to.
Dried Parsley: Brings a soft, earthy herb flavor that complements the freshness without overpowering it.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: A touch of heat for a lively kick (optional but highly recommended!).
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for enhancing and rounding out all the vibrant flavors.

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing the cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers into thin, even rounds and halve the cherry tomatoes. Peel and thinly slice the onion so that it blends easily into the salad without overpowering it.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, dried parsley, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Make sure everything is well blended to create a vibrant, tangy dressing.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Add the sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions into the bowl with the marinade. Gently toss everything together until the vegetables are well coated with the dressing.

Step 4: Marinate

Transfer the salad into a mason jar or an airtight container. Let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, but for the best flavor, I recommend marinating it overnight. This allows the vegetables to soak up all the tangy goodness.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to redistribute the marinade. Serve chilled for the ultimate refreshing experience!

How Long to Cook the Refreshing Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes

Technically, there’s no cooking involved! This dish is all about marination. The sweet spot is to let it marinate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. However, if you can wait, overnight marination makes the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions even more flavorful and irresistible.

Tips for Perfect Refreshing Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes

Use Fresh, Firm Vegetables: Soft or overripe veggies won’t hold up well during marination.
Slice Evenly: Uniform slices help everything marinate at the same rate and look prettier when served.
Don’t Skimp on Marinating Time: The longer it sits, the better it tastes — patience is key!
Adjust the Seasoning After Marinating: Sometimes a little extra pinch of salt or pepper just before serving makes the dish pop.
Keep It Chilled: Always serve this salad cold; it enhances the refreshing flavors.
Stir Gently: When mixing, be gentle to avoid crushing the tomatoes.
Customize to Taste: Feel free to add fresh herbs, feta cheese, or a sprinkle of seeds if you want extra texture or flavor.
Use a Non-reactive Container: Glass or plastic is best — avoid metal bowls, which can react with the vinegar.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Skipping the Marination Time: Rushing to serve it right after mixing won’t give the veggies enough time to absorb the flavors.
Using Overripe Tomatoes: They’ll turn mushy quickly and make the salad watery.
Over-salting Early On: Remember, as the veggies marinate, the flavors intensify. Start light and adjust seasoning later.
Using Too Much Vinegar: A little goes a long way — you want a tangy pop, not an overwhelming sourness.
Forgetting to Stir Before Serving: The dressing settles at the bottom, so a quick, gentle toss ensures even flavor.
Not Chilling Long Enough: This salad truly shines when served cold.
Cutting Veggies Too Thick: Thick slices won’t marinate as nicely and can feel clunky in the mouth.
Using a Reactive Bowl: Metal bowls can react with the vinegar and affect the flavor — stick with glass or plastic.

What to Serve With Refreshing Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes?

Grilled Chicken

The crisp freshness of the salad pairs perfectly with smoky, juicy grilled chicken.

Barbecue Ribs

Serve it alongside rich, saucy ribs for a light and zesty contrast.

Baked Salmon

The bright flavors cut through the richness of a buttery baked salmon beautifully.

Burgers

Whether beef, turkey, or veggie, this salad is a vibrant side for any burger.

Grilled Shrimp

Light, quick-cooking shrimp and this marinated salad are a summertime dream team.

Falafel Wraps

Tuck some into a pita with falafel for an extra crunch and flavor boost.

Garlic Bread

Sop up that delicious marinade with some crispy, warm garlic bread.

Rice Pilaf

A simple, fluffy rice pilaf serves as a perfect, neutral partner to these bold veggies.

Storage Instructions

After preparing the salad, store it in an airtight container — preferably glass — in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and crisp for up to 3 days. As it sits, the vegetables will continue to soften slightly, but the flavors will also deepen, making each day’s bite even more delicious.
Pro tip: Always use a clean utensil when scooping out portions to maintain freshness and avoid introducing bacteria that can spoil the salad faster.

Avoid freezing this salad; cucumbers and tomatoes don’t thaw well and will lose their lovely texture.

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a rough estimate per serving (assuming about 6 servings total):

Calories: 90 kcal
Fat: 7g (mostly healthy fats from olive oil)
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fiber: 1.5g
Sugar: 3g (naturally from vegetables)
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 220mg

These values can vary slightly depending on your specific ingredients and proportions. Overall, it’s a light, low-calorie, nutrient-rich option that fits wonderfully into healthy eating plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! In fact, this salad tastes even better when made a few hours or a day ahead. Just keep it refrigerated in a sealed container.

What’s the Best Vinegar to Use?

Apple cider vinegar is my favorite because it adds a subtle sweetness, but white vinegar or red wine vinegar work just as well depending on your flavor preference.

Can I Add Other Vegetables?

Definitely! Bell peppers, radishes, or even thinly sliced carrots would be wonderful additions for more crunch and color.

Is It Okay to Use Fresh Herbs Instead of Dried?

Yes! Fresh parsley, dill, or basil can replace dried parsley for an even brighter and more aromatic flavor.

Will the Salad Get Soggy?

Over time, the cucumbers and tomatoes release juices into the marinade, making it juicier. It’s best enjoyed within 2–3 days to keep that fresh, crisp bite.

Can I Make It Spicy?

Of course! Adding sliced jalapeños or an extra sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes will give it a fun spicy kick.

What If I Don’t Have Olive Oil?

No worries — you can use avocado oil or another light vegetable oil. Just make sure it’s a mild-flavored oil so it doesn’t overpower the veggies.

How Can I Make It More Filling?

Try adding cubes of feta cheese, chickpeas, or even quinoa to bulk it up and turn it into a heartier salad meal.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a dish that’s easy, fresh, colorful, and packed with flavor, this Refreshing Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes is your go-to. It’s the perfect balance of tangy, crisp, and juicy — a celebration of simple ingredients coming together beautifully. Whether you’re making a quick side for a weeknight dinner, prepping a healthy snack, or putting together a vibrant dish for a gathering, this salad delivers every time.

I hope you fall in love with it just as much as I have!

Refreshing Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes Recipe

Author: Sally Thompson
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Get ready to fall in love with this easy and vibrant Refreshing Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes recipe! Perfect for a quick summer side dish, healthy snack, or easy dinner idea, this marinated salad bursts with fresh, tangy flavors in every bite. Crisp cucumbers, sweet tomatoes, and zesty onions are soaked in a bright vinegar-based dressing, creating a dish that’s cool, refreshing, and utterly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for new breakfast ideas, light dinner ideas, or food ideas for your next picnic or BBQ, this colorful, healthy, and easy recipe is sure to impress. Each bite delivers a refreshing crunch and a mouthwatering tang that keeps you coming back for more!

Ingredients

Scale

2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
1 medium white onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Wash the cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly.
Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds and halve the cherry tomatoes.
Peel and thinly slice the onion.
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, dried parsley, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
Add the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions into the bowl and gently toss until well coated.
Transfer the salad into a mason jar or airtight container.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, for the best flavor.
Stir gently before serving and enjoy chilled!