Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes is a refreshing and easy-to-make salad that’s perfect for summer or whenever you’re craving something light and flavorful. The combination of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy onions marinated in a simple vinaigrette makes for a healthy and delicious side dish. It’s a great addition to barbecues, picnics, or even as a light lunch.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Introduction
This Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings out the best in fresh vegetables. With a light, tangy vinaigrette, the vegetables marinate together to create a harmonious blend of flavors that’s both refreshing and satisfying. The best part is that it’s so easy to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time. Whether served as a side dish or on its own, this salad is a great way to enjoy fresh veggies in their best form.
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 4 medium tomatoes, cut into wedges
- 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced cucumbers, tomato wedges, and sliced red onion.
- Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, water, olive oil, sugar, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano until the sugar is dissolved.
- Marinate the Vegetables: Pour the vinaigrette over the vegetables and toss to coat everything evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Before serving, give the salad a good toss to make sure everything is well mixed. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cook Notes & Tips
- Marinating Time: For the best flavor, allow the vegetables to marinate for at least 2 hours. The longer they sit, the more flavorful they become.
- Cucumber Type: English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers work best for this recipe because they have fewer seeds and thinner skin.
- Sugar Adjustment: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar based on your taste preference. You can also substitute it with honey for a natural sweetness.
Variations
- Herb Addition: Add fresh herbs like dill, basil, or parsley for extra flavor.
- Balsamic Twist: Substitute apple cider vinegar with balsamic vinegar for a different flavor profile.
- Add Feta: Crumble some feta cheese on top before serving for a creamy, salty addition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How Long Can I Store This Salad?
This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The vegetables will continue to marinate, enhancing the flavor over time.
2. Can I Use White Vinegar Instead of Apple Cider Vinegar?
Yes, you can use white vinegar or even red wine vinegar as a substitute, though the flavor will vary slightly.
3. Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, radishes, or even thinly sliced zucchini would be great additions to this salad.
Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes is a light, refreshing salad that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is bursting with fresh flavors. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats, bringing it to a picnic, or enjoying it as a light lunch, this salad is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy fresh vegetables. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the simple pleasures of a marinated vegetable salad!
Happy Cooking!
