Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad

Fresh Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad Recipe for Summer Meals

If you’re looking for a no-fuss side dish that’s cool, crisp, and easy to throw together, this tomato, cucumber, and onion salad is about as simple and southern as it gets.

With just a handful of pantry ingredients and fresh summer produce, this salad is a go-to recipe when the temps rise and you need something refreshing to go with supper.

You may also like:

• Mixed Bean Salad
• Asparagus Spring Salad
• Brussels Sprouts Salad
• Vegetable Pasta Salad
• Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
• Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
• Avocado Salad

Who Should Make This Easy Southern Salad

This recipe is for anyone who wants a quick and flavorful salad without much prep work.

Whether you’re a busy parent trying to get supper on the table or someone hosting a backyard cookout, this cold vegetable salad is a dependable option.

It’s a great starter recipe for beginners and a familiar favorite for seasoned home cooks.

What Makes This Tomato Cucumber Onion Salad Stand Out

This isn’t one of those complicated salads with a long list of ingredients.

What makes it so good is the balance of tart vinegar, a touch of sugar, and just enough salt and pepper to bring out the natural flavor in the vegetables.

The fresh crunch of cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and bite of raw onion is what keeps folks coming back for seconds.

It’s a classic summer side dish with vinegar dressing that’s been made in southern kitchens for generations.

When to Serve This Southern Vegetable Salad

This salad is best served cold, making it ideal for summer cookouts, family reunions, or as a simple side for a weeknight meal.

You can prep it early in the day and let it chill in the fridge until you’re ready to eat. It’s even better the next day after the flavors have had time to soak in.

That makes it a great make-ahead side dish for barbecues or potlucks.

Where This Recipe Works Best

Serve this salad alongside grilled chicken, pulled pork sandwiches, burgers, or fried catfish.

It’s just as good on a paper plate at a picnic as it is on the dinner table on a Sunday evening.

This recipe travels well too—just toss it in a sealed container and it’s ready for the road.

Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Cucumber Tomato Onion Salad

This recipe is more than just easy—it’s dependable.

With ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen and produce that’s affordable and available year-round, it’s a frugal side dish recipe with fresh vegetables that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

There’s no fancy dressing to buy or extra steps to take, which makes it perfect for anyone trying to stretch their grocery budget.

How to Serve and Use This Versatile Salad

This salad can be served cold straight from the fridge or let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to take the chill off.

You can spoon it over a bed of greens, serve it next to meat off the grill, or use it as a topping for sandwiches, especially grilled sausage or bratwurst.

You could even chop the vegetables a little smaller and serve it as a fresh tomato cucumber relish for hot dogs or tacos.

This easy cucumber tomato onion salad with vinegar dressing brings a lot to the table with very little effort. Keep it in your rotation this summer—you’ll be glad you did.

Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad

Ingredients:

• 3 ripe tomatoes
• 1 large cucumber
• 1 large onion
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp water
• ¼ cup vinegar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp pepper
• 2 tbsp sugar

Directions:

Slice the tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions so that they’ll lay flat in the dish. 

I like to cut my vegetables relatively thin, but if you’d like to slice them thicker that’s fine too. 

Combine the wet ingredients and whisk until well blended. 

Pour the dressing over the vegetables, and cover the dish with cling wrap. 

After 30 minutes or so, give the vegetables a toss to make sure they’re completely coated. Refrigerate.

Frequently asked Questions for Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad Recipe

What is the best vinegar to use for cucumber tomato onion salad with vinegar dressing?
White vinegar is the most commonly used for this type of salad because it gives a nice tang without overpowering the vegetables. You can also try apple cider vinegar if you want a slightly sweeter flavor.

Can I make this tomato cucumber onion salad ahead of time for a cookout?
Yes, this is one of the best make-ahead cold salads for cookouts. In fact, it tastes even better after it’s had time to chill and marinate. Make it the night before or at least a few hours ahead of your event for the best flavor.

How long does tomato cucumber onion salad last in the fridge?
This simple vinegar-based vegetable salad will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to store it in an airtight container. The flavors will continue to develop over time, but the cucumbers may soften slightly after the first day.

What meals pair well with southern cucumber tomato and onion salad?
This easy summer side dish with fresh vegetables goes great with grilled meats like barbecue chicken, burgers, ribs, or smoked sausage. It also pairs well with fried catfish or baked pork chops.

Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of slicing tomatoes in this cold salad recipe?
Yes, cherry or grape tomatoes work fine. Just slice them in half. They hold up well and add a juicy bite to this quick and easy vegetable salad recipe.

Is this a healthy cucumber tomato onion salad recipe for weight loss?
This is a great option if you’re looking for a low calorie salad with vinegar dressing. It’s full of fresh vegetables and doesn’t use any creamy or high-fat dressings, making it a smart side dish choice for lighter meals.

What type of onion is best in tomato cucumber onion salad?
A sweet onion like Vidalia works well in this classic southern salad with vinegar dressing, but a red onion will give you a sharper flavor and more color. You can use whatever you prefer or have on hand.

Do I need to peel the cucumbers for this salad?
It’s optional. If you’re using regular cucumbers with a waxy skin, you might want to peel them. If you’re using English cucumbers or garden cucumbers with a thinner skin, you can leave it on for more texture and color in this fresh summer salad with cucumbers and tomatoes.