Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is the perfect balance of crisp and tender textures, with the marinated veggies soaking up the tangy, garlicky flavors of the dressing. The apple cider vinegar (or red wine vinegar) adds a nice tartness that complements the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and the crunch of the cucumbers. It’s light yet flavorful, and the optional red pepper flakes add a subtle kick. You can prepare it ahead of time, and it’s a versatile side dish that pairs well with almost anything, from grilled meats to salads and sandwiches. Plus, it’s an incredibly refreshing option on a warm day.

Ingredients

2 cucumbers, thinly sliced
1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
1 small red or white onion, thinly sliced
¼ cup apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill
Salt and pepper to taste
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced cucumbers, halved cherry or grape tomatoes, and thinly sliced onions.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar (or red wine vinegar), olive oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley or dill, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss to coat everything evenly.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. For best results, let it marinate for 1-2 hours.
Give it a final stir before serving and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Marinate Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours
Total Time: 40 minutes to 2 hours 10 minutes

Variations

Add-Ins: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, radishes, or even avocado for extra texture and flavor.
Sweetness: If you prefer a slightly sweeter version, add a teaspoon of honey, maple syrup, or a pinch of sugar to the marinade.
Herbs: While parsley and dill work beautifully, you can also try basil, thyme, or oregano for different flavor profiles.
Protein: Add some feta cheese or grilled chicken to make this a more filling dish or a light meal.
Spicy: If you love heat, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or even add a diced jalapeño for an extra kick.

Storage/Reheating

This marinated vegetable dish is best served fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to meld, but the vegetables may become softer the longer they marinate. It’s not recommended to freeze this dish, as the texture of the vegetables will change once frozen.

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of vinegar?

Yes! You can swap out apple cider vinegar with red wine vinegar, white wine vinegar, or balsamic vinegar for a different flavor. Each will add its unique twist to the dish.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, this dish is great for meal prep. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it becomes. You can prepare it a few hours or even a day ahead of time for the best results.

3. Can I use a different herb instead of parsley or dill?

Yes, feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or oregano. The choice of herbs will change the flavor profile, so choose what best suits your tastes.

4. Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, this Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes dish is both vegan and gluten-free, making it a versatile option for various dietary preferences.

5. Can I make this dish spicier?

Definitely! You can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some diced jalapeño or hot sauce for extra heat.

6. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, radishes, or even zucchini for added texture and flavor.

7. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

While fresh herbs provide the best flavor, you can substitute dried herbs if needed. Use about 1/3 of the amount you would use for fresh herbs (for example, 1 teaspoon dried parsley instead of 1 tablespoon fresh).

8. Is there a substitute for the olive oil?

If you don’t have olive oil, you can use avocado oil, vegetable oil, or even a bit of sesame oil for a different flavor profile.

9. Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?

Fresh vegetables work best in this dish. Frozen vegetables may become too soft and lose their crunch, which is a key element of the texture.

10. How do I make this recipe sweeter?

If you like a sweeter version, you can add a little honey, maple syrup, or even a pinch of sugar to the marinade to balance the tanginess.

Conclusion

This Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes recipe is a simple, refreshing, and flavorful dish that works as a side, salad, or even a light meal. With the tang of vinegar, the richness of olive oil, and the crunch of fresh vegetables, it’s a perfect addition to any table. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, preparing a summer picnic, or just looking for a healthy, light option, this dish is sure to become a favorite!