As the sun warms up and the days grow longer, I can’t help but crave the light, refreshing flavors of summer. This Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad is my go-to side dish that encapsulates everything I love about warm weather dining. The crispness of the English cucumbers, the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, and the mild bite of red onions come together in a tangy herb marinade that’s as vibrant as the season itself.

What I adore about this recipe is its simplicity—it’s a no-cook marvel that can be whipped up in minutes, yet brings a burst of flavor to any meal. Whether I’m preparing for a backyard barbecue or packing a picnic basket for a day at the park, this salad adds a delightful touch without the fuss. Plus, it’s vegan, gluten-free, and low-calorie, making it a versatile dish that suits many dietary needs.

Ready to elevate your summer meals? Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that promises deliciousness in every bite!

Why is Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad Perfect?

Simplicity at its best: This Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad comes together in minutes, requiring no cooking at all.
Vibrant Flavors: The blend of crisp cucumbers, sweet cherry tomatoes, and zesty red onions creates a refreshing harmony that brightens any meal.
Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with grilled meats, serve it alongside sandwiches, or enjoy it solo as a light snack.
Healthy Option: Naturally vegan, gluten-free, and low-calorie, this salad caters to a variety of dietary preferences without sacrificing taste.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and let it chill—this dish gets even better after a day in the fridge.
Elevate your summer meals with this delightful side that’s as colorful as your dining table.

Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad Ingredients

For the Salad

English Cucumbers – Choose seedless varieties for the best crunch and freshness; Persian cucumbers can be a delightful alternative.
Cherry Tomatoes – Their sweetness adds a vibrant pop; feel free to substitute with your favorite tomato variety, cut into bite-sized pieces.
Red Onion – Offers a mild, colorful flavor; yellow or sweet onions can make it even mellower.

For the Marinade

Apple Cider Vinegar – This provides tanginess that enhances the salad’s flavor.
Olive Oil – Adds a rich, smooth finish that balances the acidity of the vinegar.
Sugar – Mitigates the vinegar’s acidity; you can adjust or leave this out if preferred.
Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor; don’t skip these!
Dried Italian Herbs – A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme brings herbal notes; experiment with fresh herbs for a lively touch.
Red Pepper Flakes – Optional, for those who enjoy a spicy kick in the Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad.

How to Make Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad

Prep Vegetables: Wash your cucumbers and slice them into ¼-inch rounds. Halve the cherry tomatoes and thinly slice the red onion to create a colorful medley of fresh ingredients.
Make Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, black pepper, dried Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes until well combined, creating your tangy dressing.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl or glass jar, layer the prepared cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions. Pour the marinade over the top and gently toss everything together for even distribution.
Chill: Cover the bowl or jar and refrigerate your salad for at least 2 hours, allowing flavors to meld. For the best taste, let it sit overnight, giving you an irresistible marinated flavor.
Serve: Once chilled, serve your Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad on its own, or as a refreshing side to grilled meats and sandwiches, delighting everyone at the table.

Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra pop of flavor!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad

Choose the Right Cucumbers: Select seedless English cucumbers for optimal crunch. Persian cucumbers can add a delightful twist with even more crispiness!
Marinate Wisely: Allow this salad to chill for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This time lets the flavors meld beautifully in your marinated cucumber tomato salad.
Mix it Up: Don’t hesitate to experiment with additional veggies like bell peppers or radishes for a unique flavor profile that excites the palate.
Avoid Storage Issues: Store the salad in a glass container to prevent any reactions between vinegar and plastic.
Stay Fresh: Remember, this salad is best enjoyed fresh. Avoid freezing, as it can lead to mushy textures that detract from its original crispness.

What to Serve with Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes Salad?

This vibrant, tangy salad pairs beautifully with various dishes, creating a delightful summer meal experience.

Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken provides a protein-packed complement, balancing the freshness of the salad.
Sandwiches: Serve it next to any sandwich, whether turkey club or veggie, for a refreshing contrast to rich flavors.
Fish Tacos: The crispness of this salad offers a cooling note against zesty fish tacos, perfect for warm evenings.
Quinoa Salad: For a wholesome vegetarian option, pair with a protein-rich quinoa salad, bringing a nutty depth to your meal.
Pasta: Toss it alongside your favorite cold pasta dish, where the tartness of the salad enhances creamy or pesto flavors.
Lemonade: A tall glass of homemade lemonade refreshes the palate, enhancing the salad’s sparkling herb notes.
Berry Sorbet: End your meal on a sweet note with berry sorbet—it’s light, fruity, and perfectly offsets the tanginess of your salad.
Caprese Skewers: As an appetizer, these skewers add a colorful, fresh element that complements the salad’s texture and flavor.
Grilled Shrimp: The smoky flavor of grilled shrimp pairs perfectly with the salad, creating a delicious seafood contrast.
Watermelon Feta Salad: A hint of sweetness combined with creamy feta in a watermelon salad pairs wonderfully, making for an unforgettable summer feast.

Make Ahead Options

These Marinated Cucumber, Onions, and Tomatoes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the salad components (sliced cucumbers, halved tomatoes, and sliced onions) up to 24 hours in advance by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The marinade can also be made ahead and stored separately; simply whisk together the ingredients and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just toss the veggies with the marinade and let them chill for at least 2 hours (or overnight for the best flavor). This way, you can enjoy a refreshing side dish that’s just as delicious while keeping your kitchen time to a minimum!

How to Store and Freeze Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad

Fridge: Store your salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, ensuring the vegetables remain submerged in the marinade for optimal flavor.
Room Temperature: It’s best to keep the Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad refrigerated. If left out, consume within 2 hours to ensure freshness and food safety.
Reheating: Since this salad is served cold, simply take it out of the fridge just before serving. Give it a gentle stir to redistribute the marinade and enjoy!
Freezer: Avoid freezing the salad, as the textures of the cucumbers and tomatoes may become mushy and unappetizing after thawing.

Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad Variations

Feel free to personalize this recipe and let your creativity shine with these delightful twists that burst with flavor!

Dairy-Free: Add crumbled vegan feta for a tangy twist that enhances the salad’s flavor.
Herb Boost: Substitute dried herbs with fresh basil or dill to elevate the herbal notes and freshness.
Sweet & Spicy: Mix in diced jalapeños or serrano peppers for an exciting kick that brings heat to the table.
Texture Twist: Incorporate sliced radishes or crunchy bell peppers for extra crunch and vibrant color contrast.
Vinegar Variety: Swap out apple cider vinegar with balsamic or red wine vinegar for a different tangy zing in every bite.
Citrus Burst: Squeeze in fresh lemon or lime juice to brighten the flavors and add a zesty punch.
Mediterranean Flair: Add olives and artichoke hearts to turn this salad into a Mediterranean-inspired delight.
Nutty Crunch: Toss in sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts for added texture and a delightful crunch.

With these variations, your Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad can shine in multiple delicious ways — let the summer flavors dance on your tongue!

Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right cucumbers for this salad?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend selecting seedless English cucumbers. They provide a wonderful crunch and are less bitter. If you can’t find them, Persian cucumbers are a great alternative for an extra crisp texture. Just make sure they look firm and vibrant, without any dark spots or bruises.

How should I store the Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad?
Store your salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure the vegetables are fully submerged in the marinade to maintain their flavor and freshness. If you notice any liquid separation, just give it a gentle stir before serving!

Can I freeze the Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad?
It’s best to avoid freezing this salad since cucumbers and tomatoes have high water content and can turn mushy upon thawing. Instead, relish the fresh flavors by making it in smaller batches that you can enjoy within a week.

What if I have leftover salad? How can I use it?
The more the merrier! If you have leftovers, try incorporating them into a wrap, topping them on tacos for a crunchy twist, or adding them to a rice bowl for extra freshness. The flavors meld nicely over a day or two, so don’t let it go to waste!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Certainly! This Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad is gluten-free, vegan, and low-calorie, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. However, if you’re preparing for specific allergies, always check if any added ingredients, like red pepper flakes or specific oils, could pose a concern for your guests.

What should I do if my salad seems too sour?
If you find that your salad has a tang that’s a bit too strong, try adding a dash more sugar or a touch of olive oil to balance the acidity. A quick stir should help amalgamate the flavors, offering a more harmonious taste. Adjust to your liking, and don’t be afraid to experiment!