Cucumber, Onion & Tomato Salad – Fresh & Simple

A crisp, refreshing salad that combines cool cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and sharp onion with a light and tangy vinaigrette. Perfect for summer meals or as a refreshing side.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy and quick to assemble
• Bright, crunchy texture from fresh vegetables
• Light vinaigrette brings out the natural flavors
• Can be made ahead and gets better after marinating

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Recipe Details

• Prep Time: ~10–15 minutes
• Total Time: ~10–20 minutes (plus optional marinating)
• Yield: ~4–6 servings
• Method: No cooking — just chopping and tossing
• Diet: Vegan / Vegetarian

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Ingredients

• 1 large cucumber, sliced or diced
• 3 medium tomatoes, chopped or wedged
• 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar or lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for balance)
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
• Fresh herbs (optional): parsley, basil, or dill, chopped

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Instructions

1. Wash and cut the cucumber, tomatoes, and onion into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar (or lemon juice), sugar (if using), salt, and black pepper until well blended.
3. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat.
4. (Optional) Cover and let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Before serving, toss again, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle with fresh herbs if using.

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You Must Know

• Marinating the salad helps the flavors blend and improves the taste.
• Use firm, ripe tomatoes and crisp cucumbers for best texture.
• If the onion flavor is too strong, soak the sliced onion in cold water for a few minutes before draining and adding.

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Storage Tips

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Stir before serving again — the vegetables may release some liquid.

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Ingredient Substitutions

• Swap red wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, or white wine vinegar.
• Use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a different type of sweetness.
• Add extra veggies like bell peppers, radishes, or avocado.
• For a salty twist, mix in crumbled feta or small mozzarella balls.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair with grilled meats, fish, or kebabs.
• Serve over rice or quinoa for a light vegetable bowl.
• Use as a topping for grilled bread or bruschetta.

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Pro Tips

• Cut vegetables to similar sizes to make sure flavors are consistent and well-balanced.
• Whisk the vinaigrette well to emulsify the oil and vinegar.
• Taste and adjust the dressing at the end — acidity and saltiness can mellow after marinating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this salad ahead?
Yes — you can prepare it a few hours before serving and keep it chilled.

→ Will the vegetables get soggy?
They’ll soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed within a day or two.

→ Can I add cheese?
Absolutely — feta, goat cheese, or mozzarella all pair beautifully with these flavors.

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Final Thoughts

This Cucumber, Onion & Tomato Salad is a bright, crunchy, and satisfying side that complements many meals. Its simplicity and fresh flavor make it a staple for warm-weather dinners or casual get-togethers.

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