🥗 How to Make It – Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare Your Veggies
Rinse all the vegetables thoroughly.
-
Optionally peel the cucumbers and slice into rounds.
-
Cut tomatoes into hearty chunks or wedges.
-
Peel and slice the onion into thin rings.
💡 Tip: If raw onions are too pungent, soak them in ice water for 10 minutes to soften their bite.
Step 2: Whip Up the Marinade
In a bowl or jar, mix together:
-
½ cup white vinegar
-
¼ cup water
-
¼ cup oil
-
2 tbsp sugar
-
1 tsp salt
-
½ tsp black pepper
-
1 tsp dried oregano
Whisk until the sugar fully dissolves and the dressing is emulsified.
Step 3: Combine and Toss
In a large bowl or storage container:
-
Layer the cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes.
-
Pour the vinaigrette over the vegetables.
-
Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
-
Cover and refrigerate.
Step 4: Marinate & Chill
Let the salad chill for at least 2 hours (overnight is even better!). The flavors deepen as the veggies soak up the tangy marinade, mellowing the onions and intensifying the tomato’s juiciness.
✅ Pro Tips for Perfect Results
-
Use vine-ripened or heirloom tomatoes for the richest flavor.
-
Don’t leave out the sugar—it balances the acidity perfectly.
-
Toss in fresh herbs right before serving for extra aroma and color.
-
Always serve it cold—it’s most refreshing straight from the fridge!
🍴 Perfect Pairings
This salad is a versatile side dish. Pair it with:
-
Grilled chicken, steak, or sausages
-
BBQ ribs or pulled pork sandwiches
-
Seafood dishes like grilled shrimp or baked fish
-
As a topping for burgers or pitas
-
Or just enjoy it with crusty bread for a light snack
🧊 Storage Tips
-
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
-
It’ll stay fresh for up to 3–4 days.
-
Give it a quick stir before serving as the dressing may separate.
📝 In Conclusion
This marinated cucumber, onion, and tomato salad is summer in a bowl—fresh, flavorful, and fuss-free. It’s a staple you’ll want to keep in your fridge for everything from family dinners to lazy weekend picnics. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a go-to warm-weather classic.
Grab your veggies, mix up a simple marinade, and let this effortless salad steal the show at your next meal! 🥗☀️