Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes — A Fresh, Southern Summer Salad
This Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes salad is a timeless Southern favorite — light, tangy, and full of crisp, refreshing flavor. It’s the perfect side dish for BBQs, picnics, or any warm-weather meal. With a simple vinegar dressing that gets better the longer it sits, this dish tastes like summer in every bite.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Marinating Time: 2–3 hours (or overnight for deeper flavor)
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 3 medium cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
- 3 medium tomatoes, cut into wedges or slices
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced into rings
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar for a sharper taste)
- ¼ cup water
- ¼ cup olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried basil (optional)
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning (optional)
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables
Wash and slice the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions.
If you prefer extra crunch, leave the cucumber skin on; if you like it tender, peel it first.
Add all the veggies to a large mixing bowl.
Make the Marinade
In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together:
vinegar, water, oil, sugar, salt, pepper, and herbs (if using).
Stir until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved.
Tip: Taste the dressing before pouring — it should be slightly tangy, lightly sweet, and well-balanced.
Combine and Marinate
Pour the vinegar mixture over the vegetables.
Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally.
The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it becomes — overnight is ideal!
Serve
Before serving, give the salad a good stir and taste — adjust seasoning with more salt, sugar, or vinegar if needed.
Serve chilled and garnish with fresh parsley or dill for a burst of color and freshness.
Tips for Success
- For extra flavor: Add sliced bell peppers or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- To reduce acidity: Substitute half the vinegar with lemon juice for a milder tang.
- Want it sweeter? Add a drizzle of honey or an extra tablespoon of sugar.
- Make ahead: This salad actually gets better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is the perfect companion for:
- Grilled chicken or steak
- BBQ ribs or pulled pork
- Fried fish or shrimp
- Sandwiches or burgers
Storage
Store leftovers in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
The veggies will continue to marinate and soften slightly with time — deliciously tangy till the end!
Why You’ll Love It
Refreshing, tangy, and lightly sweet
Simple ingredients, big flavor
Low-calorie and healthy
No cooking required — just mix and chill