A bowl of marinated cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes is the taste of summertime simplicity. The crisp crunch of cucumbers, the juicy burst of tomatoes, and the subtle bite of onion all come together in a tangy, lightly sweet vinaigrette that soaks into every slice and bite. It’s one of those dishes that somehow manages to feel both refreshingly light and satisfyingly flavorful, perfect for warm-weather meals or as a cool contrast to hearty main dishes.

This is a timeless Southern staple that has earned its spot at family cookouts, potlucks, and weeknight dinner tables alike. Whether you’re piling it high on a plate beside some grilled chicken or sneaking a chilled forkful straight from the fridge, this veggie medley always delivers. The best part? It gets better the longer it sits, making it a perfect make-ahead option.

Why You’ll Love This Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes

This dish is a masterclass in balance. The acidity from the vinegar wakes up the palate, while a touch of sugar softens the sharpness just enough to keep things smooth and mellow. The vegetables absorb the marinade and transform into tender, flavorful bites that somehow still keep a bit of their fresh crunch.

You’ll love how easy this recipe is to throw together, using ingredients you likely already have on hand. It’s vegetarian, gluten-free, and naturally low in calories, making it a versatile addition to nearly any meal plan. Plus, it scales beautifully, so you can make a small batch for lunch or a big bowl for a barbecue.

What Kind of Vinegar Should I Use?

White distilled vinegar is the classic choice for this marinated salad, giving that sharp tang that makes it so addictive. However, if you want to switch it up, apple cider vinegar offers a more mellow, fruity profile that pairs beautifully with tomatoes. Red wine vinegar is another great option that brings a bit more depth.

Avoid balsamic or malt vinegars, which are too strong and sweet for this kind of recipe. If you’re trying to reduce acidity, you can dilute the vinegar slightly with water without sacrificing flavor. Just don’t skip it entirely — the vinegar is what gives this dish its signature zing.

Ingredients for the Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes

This refreshing dish calls for just a few staple ingredients, each playing a key role in creating a perfectly balanced bite. Fresh vegetables are essential here, as their natural crispness and sweetness are what make the salad shine. The marinade is simple but transformative, soaking into the veggies and tying everything together.

Cucumbers
Tomatoes
Onions
Vinegar
Water
Sugar
Salt
Black Pepper
Olive Oil (optional)

Cucumbers provide the satisfying crunch and soak up the tangy marinade like a sponge. Tomatoes add juiciness and bright sweetness to balance the acidity. Onions, especially sweet or red ones, lend a sharp bite that mellows over time in the vinegar bath.

Vinegar is the backbone of the marinade, delivering the signature tang. Water helps to mellow out the intensity. A bit of Sugar rounds out the acidity, while Salt and Black Pepper enhance the natural flavors. A drizzle of Olive Oil is optional but adds a silky texture to the dressing.

Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes 2 (1)

How To Make the Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes

Step 1: Slice the Vegetables

Start by thinly slicing the cucumbers and onions. Cut the tomatoes into wedges or chunks, depending on their size and your texture preference.

Step 2: Mix the Marinade

In a large bowl, combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the sugar dissolves completely. Add a splash of olive oil if you prefer a slightly richer dressing.

Step 3: Toss and Chill

Add the sliced cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes to the bowl. Gently toss everything together so the vegetables are well-coated in the marinade.

Step 4: Let It Marinate

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but ideally overnight. This gives the veggies time to soak in all the flavor.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Give everything a quick toss before serving. The salad is best enjoyed cold and will keep getting better over the next few days.

How to Serve and Store Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes

This marinated veggie salad is best served cold, making it the ultimate summer side dish. Serve it in a big chilled bowl at a backyard barbecue, or scoop out a personal serving from the fridge for a quick lunch. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even over a bed of greens as a tangy topping.

This recipe serves about 6 people, but you can easily double it for a larger crowd. The flavors continue to develop the longer it sits, so leftovers are not only welcome but encouraged.

To store, keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 5 days. Just give it a good stir before each serving to redistribute the marinade.

What to Serve With Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes?

Grilled Chicken

The smoky flavor of grilled chicken is an ideal match for the crisp and tangy salad. Serve it all on one plate for a complete warm-weather meal.

Pulled Pork Sandwiches

The acidity of the marinated vegetables helps cut through the richness of barbecue-style pulled pork. A spoonful on top of the sandwich is magic.

Baked Salmon

Pair this salad with a piece of flaky baked salmon for a light and nutritious dinner that feels restaurant-worthy.

Burgers and Hot Dogs

Whether it’s a classic cheeseburger or a chili dog, this veggie mix adds a pop of brightness to any cookout staple.

Southern Cornbread

A slice of sweet, crumbly cornbread and a scoop of marinated cucumbers? Yes, please. It’s comfort food meets crisp refreshment.

Pasta Salad

Double down on cold dishes by pairing this salad with a creamy pasta salad. The contrast in textures and flavors works surprisingly well.

Fried Catfish

The vinegar-based marinade makes an excellent foil for crispy, golden fried catfish. It adds just the right amount of zing.

Roasted Potatoes

Simple roasted potatoes get a refreshing upgrade when served alongside or topped with these juicy marinated vegetables.

Want More Salad Ideas?

If you loved these marinated cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes, here are more vibrant dishes that bring flavor and freshness to your table:

Try this creamy and tangy Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad if you enjoy a Southern-style classic.
For a punch of protein and green goodness, the Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is a must-try.
Add a bit of spice and crunch with Cheesy Brussels Sprout Bake, a savory oven favorite.
For a pop of citrus and creamy richness, go for the Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries.
And if you’re craving a summer combo of fruits and veggies, don’t miss the Easy Summer Peach Watermelon Salad.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest salad board so you can revisit it anytime.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go classic with white vinegar, or did you experiment with apple cider? Did you toss in fresh herbs like dill or basil?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Share your twists, tips, or questions — let’s keep each other inspired in the kitchen.

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