Classic Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad

Hey there, friends! Come on in, grab a stool, and let’s chat about something near and dear to my heart: a simple, refreshing, and utterly delicious Classic Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad. This isn’t just any salad; it’s a taste of summer sunshine, a whisper of childhood picnics, and a whole lot of love all tossed together in a bowl. It’s the kind of dish that graces our family table all summer long, and I can’t wait to share it with you.

This Classic Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad is one of those recipes that’s been passed down through generations in my family. My grandmother, bless her heart, always had a bowl of this chilling in the fridge, ready to brighten up any meal. We’d gather around her big oak table, the air thick with the scent of honeysuckle and freshly cut grass, and this salad was always there, a vibrant splash of color amongst the fried chicken and mashed potatoes. Just thinking about it makes my heart swell. I’ve tweaked her original recipe just a tad, adding a few modern touches, but the soul of this Classic Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad remains the same: simple, fresh, and bursting with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s easy peasy: Seriously, even if you’ve never chopped a vegetable in your life, you can conquer this Classic Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad.
• It’s a flavor explosion: The tangy marinade perfectly complements the crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and sharp red onions.
• It’s the perfect make-ahead dish: Whip this up the night before a picnic or potluck, and the flavors will only deepen and intensify.
• It’s healthy and refreshing: This salad is a guilt-free way to enjoy the bounty of summer produce.
• It’s budget-friendly: Simple ingredients that won’t break the bank.
• It’s a blank canvas: This Classic Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad is just begging for your creative touch!

What You’ll Need (Ingredients)

• 2 large cucumbers: Look for firm cucumbers with smooth skin. I love English cucumbers for their delicate flavor and thin skin, but any variety will do.
• 3 medium tomatoes: Ripe, juicy tomatoes are key here. Heirlooms, beefsteak, or even good old-fashioned garden tomatoes will work beautifully. That vibrant red just sings in this Classic Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad.
• 1 medium red onion: Red onion adds a nice bite, but if you’re sensitive to strong flavors, you can substitute with a sweeter Vidalia or even a shallot.
• ¼ cup white vinegar: This adds the perfect tang. Apple cider vinegar is a delicious alternative and adds a slightly sweeter note.
• 3 tbsp olive oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. The photo really captures the glistening sheen of the oil on the vegetables.
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional): Just a touch of sweetness to balance the tang. My grandmother always added a pinch, and I do too, but feel free to omit it if you prefer.
• 1 tsp salt: Kosher salt is my go-to.
• ½ tsp black pepper: Freshly ground, please!
• 1 tsp dried oregano (or Italian seasoning): This adds a lovely herbaceous note.
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish): A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.

Let’s Make It Together

Step 1: Prep Your Veggies

First things first, let’s get those veggies ready! Give your cucumbers and tomatoes a good wash. Thinly slice the cucumbers and cut the tomatoes into wedges or thick slices – whatever your heart desires. Then, thinly slice that red onion. See how vibrant the colors are in that image of the prepped veggies?

Step 2: Whisk the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, sugar (if using), salt, pepper, and oregano. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. This marinade is the heart and soul of our Classic Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad.

Step 3: Combine and Toss

Add the sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions to a large bowl. Pour the marinade over the vegetables and toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Marinate and Chill

Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least an hour, or even better, overnight. This is where the magic happens. The flavors meld and deepen, creating a truly delicious Classic Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, give the salad another gentle toss. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. And there you have it – a simple, refreshing, and utterly delicious Classic Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad.

Paisley’s Secrets for Success

• Salt your cucumbers: Sprinkling the sliced cucumbers with salt and letting them sit for 15 minutes before adding them to the salad helps draw out excess moisture, preventing a watery salad.
• Don’t over-marinate: While this salad gets better with time, over-marinating can make the vegetables mushy. Overnight is ideal, but anything over 24 hours might be a bit too much.
• Use the best ingredients you can find: Fresh, ripe produce will make all the difference in the flavor of your Classic Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad.
• Taste and adjust: Everyone’s palate is different, so don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your liking. A little extra vinegar for more tang? A pinch more sugar for sweetness? Go for it!
• Make it your own: This recipe is a great starting point, but feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, and vegetables.

Tasty Twists to Try

• Mediterranean Medley: Add crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and a sprinkle of dried dill.
• Spicy Kick: Toss in a few slices of jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a fiery twist.
• Herby Delight: Experiment with different herbs like mint, basil, or chives.
• Avocado Creaminess: Add diced avocado for a creamy, rich element.

How I Love to Serve This

• Alongside grilled meats: This Classic Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad is the perfect accompaniment to grilled chicken, fish, or steak.
• As part of a picnic spread: Pack it in a mason jar for easy transport.
• At a potluck: It’s always a crowd-pleaser. Just look at that beautiful bowl of salad in the image – it’s practically begging to be shared!
• With burgers and sandwiches: A refreshing counterpoint to rich, savory flavors.
• As a light lunch: Pair it with a crusty roll or some grilled bread.

Pull Up a Chair & Chat

Now it’s your turn! I’d love to hear your thoughts on this Classic Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad. Do you have a favorite family recipe that’s been passed down through generations? What are your favorite ways to enjoy this refreshing summer salad? Share your stories and tips in the comments below!

Final Thoughts

This Classic Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad is more than just a recipe; it’s a connection to my family’s history, a celebration of simple flavors, and a reminder of the joy of gathering around the table with loved ones. I hope it brings as much happiness to your kitchen as it does to mine. Give it a try, and let me know what you think!

FAQs About This Classic Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad

• How long does this salad last in the fridge? It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days.
• Can I use different types of vinegar? Absolutely! Apple cider vinegar, red wine vinegar, or even balsamic vinegar would be delicious.
• Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes! In fact, the flavors meld and deepen as it sits in the fridge.
• What if my salad is too watery? Salt the cucumbers before adding them to the salad to draw out excess moisture.
• Can I omit the sugar? Yes, the sugar is optional. If you prefer a less sweet salad, feel free to leave it out.
• What other vegetables can I add? Bell peppers, chopped celery, or even shredded carrots would be tasty additions.
• Can I freeze this salad? Freezing is not recommended, as it will change the texture of the vegetables.