
Below is a unique, detailed, easy-to-follow article on Marinated Cucumbers, Onions and Tomatoes, complete with a clear step-by-step method.
Marinated Cucumbers, Onions and Tomatoes — A Fresh, Tangy Salad That Tastes Like Summer
Some recipes feel like they belong to warm porches, backyard dinners, and sunny afternoons—Marinated Cucumbers, Onions and Tomatoes is one of them. It’s a simple Southern-style classic that turns everyday vegetables into something bright, crisp, and full of flavor. With just a few ingredients and a short marinade time, you get a refreshing side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or any cozy family dinner.
Below, you’ll find a unique and thorough guide to making this dish from scratch, with all the steps explained.
What Makes This Salad Special?
This marinated salad stands out for three reasons:
- Freshness – Raw vegetables stay crisp yet soak in the delicious marinade.
- Flavor balance – Tangy vinegar, a touch of sweetness, and light seasonings create a perfect harmony.
- Simplicity – You don’t need fancy ingredients or complex steps—just time for the flavors to come together.
⭐ Ingredients You Will Need
For the Vegetables
- 2 large cucumbers, peeled or unpeeled (your preference), thinly sliced
- 3–4 medium tomatoes, cut into wedges or chunks
- 1 medium onion (preferably sweet onion), thinly sliced
For the Marinade
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup white vinegar (apple cider vinegar also works beautifully)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional add-ins:
- Fresh dill or parsley
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Garlic powder or fresh minced garlic
- A splash of lemon juice for extra brightness
🥒 Step-by-Step Method
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start with fresh, firm vegetables.
- Cucumbers: Slice them into thin rounds. Thinner slices absorb more marinade and stay crisp.
- Tomatoes: Cut them into medium-sized wedges so they don’t break apart in the dressing.
- Onions: Slice the onion into thin rings or half-moons. Sweet onions add mildness, but red onions bring color and a sharper bite.
Place all the vegetables into a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Mix the Marinade
In a separate bowl or a large measuring cup:
- Pour in the water and vinegar.
- Add the sugar and stir until it dissolves completely.
- Mix in the olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Taste the mixture.
- Add a bit more sugar if you want it sweeter.
- Add more vinegar if you prefer a stronger tang.
This marinade should taste bold—once it coats the vegetables, its strength will mellow.
Step 3: Combine the Vegetables and Marinade
Slowly pour the marinade over your bowl of cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions.
Using a spoon or spatula, gently toss everything to make sure each piece gets coated.
If you’re adding herbs like dill or parsley, sprinkle them in now.









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