Cucumber Onion and Tomato Salad

 Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad – A Refreshing, Flavor-Packed Classic

When it comes to fresh, crisp, and flavorful salads, nothing beats the timeless combination of cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes. This easy-to-make, tangy, and slightly sweet salad is perfect as a refreshing side dish for summer barbecues, family dinners, or even a light snack. The best part? It gets even better after a day in the refrigerator, as the dressing deeply infuses the veggies with bold flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple ingredients, big flavor – Just a handful of everyday kitchen staples create an irresistible dish.

Make-ahead convenience – The longer it sits, the more delicious it becomes.

Versatile and customizable – Serve it as a side dish, eat it on its own, or pair it with your favorite proteins.

Healthy and hydrating – Packed with water-rich vegetables, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying.

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Ingredients & Their Role

Each ingredient in this salad plays a key role in balancing flavor and texture:

3 large tomatoes, diced – Adds natural sweetness, juiciness, and a pop of color.

3 medium cucumbers, sliced – Provides a crisp, refreshing crunch.

1 large onion, thinly sliced – Brings a mild sharpness and depth of flavor.

1/2 cup vinegar (white or apple cider) – The key to the salad’s tangy, bright taste.

1 teaspoon cracked black pepper – Enhances the overall flavor with a touch of spice.

2 tablespoons sugar – Balances the acidity of the vinegar and complements the vegetables.

2 teaspoons salt – Brings out the natural flavors of the vegetables.

1 cup water – Helps mellow out the dressing and blend the flavors.

1/4 cup olive oil – Adds richness and smooths out the acidity.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables

Wash and dry the tomatoes, cucumbers, and onion thoroughly.

Dice the tomatoes into bite-sized chunks.

Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons for easy eating.

Thinly slice the onion into rings or half-rings for a milder taste.

2. Make the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, combine vinegar, black pepper, sugar, salt, water, and olive oil.

Whisk everything together until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved.

3. Assemble the Salad

Add the tomatoes, cucumbers, and onion to the bowl with the dressing.

Toss everything together until well coated.

4. Let It Marinate

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

For best results, let it sit overnight—the vegetables will soak up even more of the delicious dressing.

5. Serve & Enjoy

Give the salad a final stir before serving.

Serve chilled as a side dish or enjoy it on its own for a light, refreshing snack.

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Pro Tips for the Best Flavor

Use fresh, ripe tomatoes – The sweeter the tomatoes, the better the balance of flavors.

English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers work best – They have thinner skins and fewer seeds.

Red onions add a milder, slightly sweet flavor, but white onions bring a stronger bite.

Let it sit longer – This salad only gets better as the flavors develop!

Experiment with fresh herbs – A handful of chopped basil, parsley, or dill adds an extra layer of freshness.

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Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs beautifully with:

Grilled meats – Serve alongside steak, chicken, or fish for a balanced meal.

Mediterranean dishes – Enjoy it with hummus, pita, and feta cheese.

Sandwiches & wraps – A perfect complement to burgers, gyros, or BBQ pulled pork.

Rice or quinoa bowls – Add it to grain bowls for extra texture and flavor.

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Final Thoughts

This Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad is proof that simple ingredients can create incredible flavor. With its refreshing crunch, tangy dressing, and make-ahead convenience, this salad is a must-have for any occasion. Whether you’re prepping it for a summer cookout or just need a quick, healthy side, this recipe delivers big taste with minimal effort. Try it today, and enjoy a dish that only gets better with time!

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