Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes

Step 2: Make the Marinade

1. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, vinegar, and lemon juice.
2. Add sugar, salt, pepper, and oregano, whisking until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
3. Taste the marinade and adjust the seasoning if needed — it should be tangy but balanced.

Step 3: Combine Vegetables and Marinade

1. Place the cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes in a large mixing bowl.
2. Pour the marinade over the vegetables and gently toss using a spoon or your hands to coat everything evenly.
3. Make sure all the slices are well coated, but handle the tomatoes carefully so they don’t break apart.

Step 4: Let It Marinate

• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
• For stronger flavor, marinate for 1–2 hours. This allows the vegetables to absorb the tangy, herby dressing, creating a burst of flavor in every bite.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Transfer the salad to a serving dish.
2. Optional garnish: sprinkle with fresh herbs, crumbled feta, or a dash of olive oil before serving.
3. Serve chilled as a side dish with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even on its own as a light, refreshing snack.

Tips for the Perfect Marinated Salad

• Use firm vegetables: Soft or overripe cucumbers and tomatoes will become mushy.
• Customize your flavor: Add garlic, chili flakes, or a teaspoon of mustard for a spicy kick.
• Make ahead: This salad can be prepared a few hours in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days — flavors only improve with time.
• Balance acidity: If the salad tastes too sour, a little extra sugar or olive oil can mellow it out.

Why You’ll Love It

This marinated cucumber, onion, and tomato salad is more than just a side dish—it’s a healthy, vibrant addition to any meal. The crispness of the cucumbers, the sweetness of the tomatoes, and the tang of the onions meld beautifully with the simple yet flavorful marinade. Whether it’s for a summer barbecue, a picnic, or a weekday dinner, this salad is always a crowd-pleaser.

If you want, I can also make a visual step-by-step guide with pictures for each stage of this recipe—it would make it much easier to follow, like a mini cooking tutorial.

Do you want me to do that?