Welcome to our kitchen, where we celebrate the joys of fresh, wholesome ingredients combined in delightful recipes. Today, we’re diving into a refreshing and vibrant Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad. Perfect for warmer months, this salad is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re planning a picnic, a BBQ, or just looking for a light and healthy side dish, this salad will become your go-to recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
This marinated cucumber, onion, and tomato salad is a delightful medley of crisp cucumbers, sweet onions, and juicy tomatoes, all marinated in a tangy, slightly sweet dressing. The fresh mint adds an optional yet delightful burst of flavor that elevates this simple dish to a gourmet experience. It’s a perfect balance of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing and your guests asking for more.
Health Benefits
This salad is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. Cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories, making them great for weight management. Onions are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, promoting heart health and boosting immunity. Tomatoes are a powerhouse of vitamins A and C, as well as lycopene, which has been linked to numerous health benefits. Combining these ingredients with a light, flavorful marinade enhances their natural goodness without adding unnecessary calories.
Best Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad Recipe | Refreshing & Easy Summer Salad
This Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad brings back memories of summer picnics with my grandmother. She would prepare this salad using fresh vegetables from her garden, and the aroma of the marinade would fill the kitchen. Each bite was a reminder of her love and the joy of family gatherings.
Shopping List
- 3 medium cucumbers
- 1 medium onion
- 3 medium tomatoes
- 1/2 cup vinegar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon fresh coarse ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh mint (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (includes marinating time)
- Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 3 medium cucumbers, peeled and sliced 1/4 inch thick
- 1 medium onion, sliced and separated into rings
- 3 medium tomatoes, cut into wedges
- 1/2 cup vinegar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon fresh coarse ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup oil
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh mint (optional)
Directions
-
Prepare the Vegetables:
- Start by peeling and slicing the cucumbers into 1/4 inch thick rounds.
- Slice the onion and separate it into rings.
- Cut the tomatoes into wedges.
-
Make the Marinade:
- In a large bowl, combine the vinegar, sugar, water, salt, black pepper, and oil. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well blended.
-
Combine Ingredients:
- Add the cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes to the bowl with the marinade.
- Toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated with the marinade.
-
Optional Mint:
- If using, sprinkle the chopped fresh mint over the salad and give it another toss.
-
Marinate:
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to soak up the tangy goodness of the marinade.
Serving Suggestions
This marinated salad is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:
- As a Side Dish: Perfect alongside grilled meats, fish, or burgers.
- On Toast or Crackers: Spoon it over a slice of toasted baguette or your favorite crackers for a quick snack.
- In Wraps or Pitas: Add it to wraps or pitas with some grilled chicken or falafel for a refreshing crunch.
Tips for the Perfect Marinated Salad
- Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, ripe tomatoes and firm cucumbers for the best texture and flavor.
- Marinating Time: While 2 hours is the minimum, letting it marinate overnight will intensify the flavors even more.
- Adjusting Sweetness and Tang: Feel free to tweak the amount of sugar and vinegar to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a sweeter salad, add a bit more sugar; for more tang, increase the vinegar.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Absolutely! This salad actually tastes better the longer it marinates, making it an excellent make-ahead dish for gatherings.
How long will this salad last in the fridge? Stored in an airtight container, this salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad? Certainly! Bell peppers, radishes, or even some sliced olives can be great additions to this salad.
Is this salad keto-friendly? With a few adjustments, such as reducing the sugar or using a sugar substitute, this salad can be made keto-friendly.
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Conclusion
This Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad is a refreshing, flavorful, and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its simplicity and vibrant taste make it a hit with both kids and adults alike. Try it today and experience the delightful combination of fresh vegetables and tangy marinade. Your taste buds will thank you!
By incorporating this delightful recipe into your culinary repertoire, you’re not only treating yourself to a delicious meal but also benefiting from the nutritious ingredients that make up this salad. Happy cooking!
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