Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes

Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes

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This vibrant and refreshing jar of Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes brings together summer’s most cherished produce in one deliciously tangy side dish. Crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and slivers of onion soak up a flavorful blend of herbs and vinegar that hits all the right notes—sweet, savory, and zippy.

Whether you’re serving it as a barbecue side, topping for grilled chicken, or just a snack straight from the jar, this marinated mix is a flavor-packed way to elevate your meals. It’s light, crunchy, and perfect for those days when turning on the stove just isn’t an option.


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

  • Quick & Easy: Minimal chopping, no cooking—just marinate and enjoy.
  • Versatile: Serve it as a salad, side, or fresh topping.
  • Healthy: Loaded with hydration, fiber, and antioxidants.
  • Customizable: Adjust herbs, vinegar types, or spice level to taste.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment:

  • Sharp Chef’s Knife: Precision cuts help infuse the veggies evenly.
  • Cutting Board: A sturdy base for prepping your ingredients.
  • Mixing Bowl: To combine all veggies and dressing before jarring.
  • Wide-Mouth Mason Jar or Airtight Container: Crucial for marinating evenly and storing in the fridge.
  • Measuring Spoons: For accuracy with your seasoning and vinegar mix.

Each tool ensures ease, safety, and the best flavor outcome for your marinated mix. With just the right setup, your prep time stays under 10 minutes—leaving you more time to chill and enjoy this crisp, vinegary delight.


Ingredients for the Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes

  • Cucumbers: Brings the perfect crunch and freshness. Choose seedless or English cucumbers for best texture.
  • Cherry Tomatoes: Adds sweet, juicy bursts of flavor and bright color contrast.
  • White or Red Onion: Delivers a subtle bite and depth that cuts through the tangy dressing.
  • White Vinegar: The base of the marinade, giving it that signature tang.
  • Olive Oil: Balances the vinegar with smooth richness.
  • Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to mellow out acidity.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential to bring all the flavors together.
  • Dried Oregano or Italian Seasoning: Adds herbal depth and savory notes.
  • Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For a little heat if desired.
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How To Make the Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes

Step 1: Slice the Veggies

Slice the cucumbers into rounds and halve the cherry tomatoes. Thinly slice the onion. Keep all pieces similar in size for an even marinade.

Step 2: Mix the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes until well combined.

Step 3: Combine and Marinate

Toss the sliced cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes with the marinade in a large mixing bowl. Let them sit for 10 minutes to absorb initial flavors.

Step 4: Transfer to a Jar

Pour the mixture into a clean mason jar or airtight container. Make sure the liquid covers the veggies.

Step 5: Refrigerate and Wait

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours—overnight is best for full flavor development. Shake or stir occasionally to redistribute the marinade.


Serving and Storing This Refreshing Side

This marinated mix shines best when served cold, straight from the fridge. Pair it with grilled meats, spoon it over sandwiches, or enjoy it solo as a crunchy snack. The tangy-sweet bite wakes up any plate.

To store, keep it in an airtight container or mason jar in the fridge. It lasts well for up to 5 days, but the crunch is at its best within the first 3. Just give it a gentle shake each day to keep the flavors balanced.


Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I marinate the vegetables?

For optimal flavor, marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better for deeper infusion.

Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar?

Yes! Apple cider vinegar adds a subtle fruitiness and works wonderfully in this recipe.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely. Try bell peppers, radishes, or even thinly sliced carrots for variety and extra color.

Is this recipe spicy?

Only if you add red pepper flakes. It’s totally optional and customizable to your heat preference.

How long does it keep in the fridge?

Up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container. Shake gently before each use.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes. Dried herbs work great here because they infuse the marinade over time.


Want More Fresh Salad Ideas?

If you enjoyed this marinated vegetable recipe, you might want to explore these other refreshing bites from Kitchen by Kate:


Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest salad board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you stick to the classic trio or mix it up with other veggies? Did you go spicy or mild?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other prep smarter.

Find more fresh creations daily on my Pinterest Kitchen By Kate.


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Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes

Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes


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  • Author: Kate Walton
  • Total Time: 10 minutes + chill time
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes recipe is a refreshing no-cook salad perfect for summer. Packed with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, tangy onions, and a zesty vinegar marinade, it’s the ideal healthy side dish. Great for BBQs, light lunches, and clean eating meal prep.


Ingredients

1 large cucumber, thinly sliced

1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved

1 small red or white onion, thinly sliced

1/2 cup white vinegar

1/4 cup olive oil

2 tablespoons sugar

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)


Instructions

1. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the onion.

2. In a bowl, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes.

3. Toss the vegetables with the marinade until evenly coated.

4. Transfer everything into a mason jar or airtight container, ensuring the liquid covers the veggies.

5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight, shaking occasionally to mix the flavors.

6. Serve cold and enjoy!

Notes

For a slightly sweeter flavor, substitute white vinegar with apple cider vinegar.

Add bell peppers or radishes for more color and crunch.

Use English cucumbers for best texture and fewer seeds.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: None
  • Category: Salad / Side Dish
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 95
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 310mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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