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Overhead view of thinly sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and onions ready for a marinated salad.

The Best Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad (Mason Jar Recipe)

This Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad is a vibrant, refreshing side dish featuring crisp veggies coated in a glistening clear vinaigrette dressing, layered perfectly in a clear mason jar.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Calories: 115
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 medium English Cucumbers Thinly sliced
  • 2 cups Red Cherry Tomatoes Halved
  • 0.5 cup White Onions Thinly sliced
  • 0.5 cup White Wine Vinegar Creates a clear vinaigrette
  • 0.25 cup Neutral Oil Like grapeseed or light olive oil
  • 2 tbsp Granulated Sugar Balances the acidity
  • 1 tsp Kosher Salt Draws out moisture
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Green Herbs Parsley and basil, finely chopped
  • 0.5 tsp Red Pepper Flakes For background heat

Equipment

  • 2 Clear Glass Mason Jars Essential for presenting and marinating.
  • 1 Mandoline slicer Ensures uniformly thin cucumber and onion slices.

Method
 

Preparation and Assembly
  1. Using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife, cut the green cucumbers into ultra-thin, uniform slices. Slice the white onions just as thinly, and carefully halve the red cherry tomatoes.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar, neutral oil, granulated sugar, and kosher salt until the sugar granules completely disappear, resulting in a glistening, clear liquid.
  3. Gently stir in the chopped green herbs and the red pepper flakes, ensuring they remain suspended as visible, distinct specks without bruising the herbs.
  4. Layer the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, and white onions inside clear glass mason jars. Pour the clear vinaigrette over the top so it coats every vegetable layer.
  5. Seal the jars tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to marinate. Serve on a small white plate for a vibrant presentation.

Notes

Tip 1: Slicing the cucumbers too thick will prevent the marinade from penetrating the skin. Aim for 1/8-inch slices.
Tip 2: Never substitute dark vinegars if you want a visually stunning, clear glistening dressing.