If you’re craving a vibrant side dish packed with freshness, marinated cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes should be at the top of your list. This quick and easy salad delivers crisp cucumber slices, juicy cherry tomatoes, and sharp onion in a tangy marinade that only gets better with time. Perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or simple weekday meals, this refreshing trio is the definition of effortless flavor.

Marinated cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes bring garden-fresh ingredients to life with a splash of vinegar, a dash of seasoning, and a touch of sweetness. Whether you’re making it ahead for meal prep or whipping it up for a picnic, this no-cook dish fits any occasion and keeps well in the fridge for several days.

What Is the Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes?

This classic Southern-inspired salad combines crisp cucumbers, sweet and tangy cherry tomatoes, and sliced onions, all soaked in a seasoned vinegar-based dressing. It’s a refrigerator staple in many homes, known for its bold yet balanced flavor and crunchy texture.

The magic lies in the marinade—a simple mix of vinegar, olive oil, herbs, and a pinch of sugar that brings the vegetables together in a mouthwatering harmony. It’s the kind of dish that tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for prepping ahead.

Ingredients for Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes

To make this refreshing salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (mix of red and yellow for color)
1 large English cucumber, thinly sliced
1 small white onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup olive oil
1/3 cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar for a sweeter tang)
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a hint of heat)
Salt and black pepper, to taste

How To Make the Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables

Start by rinsing and slicing your vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, thinly slice the cucumber (leave the peel on for extra crunch), and slice the onion into thin strips. Set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Marinade

In a medium mixing bowl or directly in a mason jar, combine the olive oil, vinegar, sugar, dried oregano, parsley, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir or shake until the sugar dissolves and the dressing is well blended.

Step 3: Combine and Toss

Place the sliced cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes into a large bowl or jar. Pour the marinade over the vegetables and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

Step 4: Marinate and Chill

Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour, ideally up to 4 hours. This allows the flavors to fully infuse and mellow out the sharpness of the onion.

Step 5: Serve Cold

Give everything a gentle toss before serving. This salad is best enjoyed cold, straight from the fridge, and it keeps well for up to 3 days.

What to Serve with Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes

This crisp, tangy salad pairs beautifully with grilled mains like chicken, steak, or fish. It’s also a fantastic contrast to rich dishes—think fried chicken, pulled pork sandwiches, or cheesy casseroles. Serve it alongside a slice of cornbread or a scoop of potato salad for a complete Southern-style spread.

For a lighter meal, toss it over a bed of greens, add chickpeas or feta cheese, and turn it into a fresh lunch salad. Or spoon it over grilled bread for a bruschetta-style appetizer.

Top Tips for Perfecting Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes

Use firm, fresh produce. This salad is all about texture. English cucumbers stay crisp and aren’t too seedy, and cherry tomatoes hold their shape well.
Let it chill. A longer marination—around 4 hours or overnight—intensifies the flavor. It’s worth the wait.
Adjust acidity and sweetness. Play with the vinegar-to-sugar ratio to suit your taste. A splash of lemon juice can brighten it up even more.

Want More Cucumber Salad Ideas?

You might also like the Creamy Cucumber Dill Salad, a tangy option with a yogurt base and fresh herbs. Or try Thai Cucumber Peanut Slaw for something with a spicy, crunchy twist.

If you’re into quick-pickle flavors, the Pickled Red Onion & Cucumber Combo delivers bold zing in under 30 minutes. For something heartier, Cucumber Chickpea Feta Salad brings protein into the picture while staying light and refreshing.