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Spoonful of marinated cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions in vinegar dressing

Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes

This easy marinated cucumber, onion, and tomato salad combines crisp vegetables with a sweet-tangy vinegar dressing. It is a refreshing make-ahead side dish for cookouts, potlucks, and everyday dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 3 medium cucumbers peeled and sliced about 1/4 inch thick
  • 1 medium onion thinly sliced and separated into rings
  • 3 medium tomatoes cut into wedges
  • 1/2 cup white vinegar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup neutral oil
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh mint optional

Instructions
 

  • Add the sliced cucumbers, onion rings, and tomato wedges to a large bowl.
  • In a separate bowl or measuring jug, combine the white vinegar, sugar, water, salt, black pepper, oil, and mint if using. Stir until the sugar is mostly dissolved.
  • Pour the dressing over the vegetables.
  • Toss gently from the bottom of the bowl so the tomatoes do not get crushed.
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours so the vegetables absorb the dressing and the onion mellows.
  • Toss gently again just before serving so the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing collected at the bottom.

Notes

  • Use ripe but firm tomatoes so they hold their shape while marinating.
  • Keep cucumber slices about 1/4 inch thick for the best crisp texture.
  • The salad is best within 2 days if you prefer the vegetables crisp.
  • Red onion can be used in place of white or yellow onion.