Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes

 

Cool, crisp, and bursting with fresh flavors, this Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad is the perfect side dish for hot days, BBQs, or weeknight dinners. With a tangy-sweet vinegar dressing, it’s light, refreshing, and gets better as it sits!

✨ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Ready in 15 minutes – No cooking required!
✅ Crunchy & refreshing – The ultimate summer side.
✅ Better overnight – Flavors meld beautifully.
✅ Versatile – Pairs with grilled meats, sandwiches, or fish.

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📝 Ingredients

Vegetables

• 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced

• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved (or 2 large tomatoes, chopped)

• 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced

• 1 bell pepper, sliced (optional, for extra crunch)

Dressing

• ½ cup apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)

• ¼ cup water

• 2 tbsp sugar (or honey)

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp dried dill (or 1 tbsp fresh)

• 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for richness)

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👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

 Prep the Vegetables

1. Slice cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions evenly.

2. Place in a large bowl (or mason jar for easy shaking).

2️⃣ Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar, water, sugar, salt, pepper, and dill until sugar dissolves.

2. Pour over the vegetables and toss gently.

3️⃣ Marinate & Serve

1. Cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour (best overnight).

2. Stir occasionally to coat evenly.

3. Drain excess liquid before serving, or enjoy it as a light brine.

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🔥 Pro Tips for the Best Salad

🔹 Use English cucumbers – No need to peel or seed!
🔹 Slice onions thin – Soak in ice water for 10 mins first to reduce sharpness.
🔹 Adjust sweetness – Add more sugar if too tangy.
🔹 Add fresh herbs – Basil or parsley brighten it up.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• With grilled chicken or steak – Cuts through richness.

• On burgers or sandwiches – A crunchy topping.

• As a light lunch – Add feta or avocado.