Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes

There is something incredibly comforting about a bowl of fresh marinated cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes. This simple yet vibrant side dish brings the essence of summer right to your table. I remember my grandmother preparing this on hot afternoons, letting the flavors meld while we enjoyed the bright sun outside. It’s pure comfort food, and the best part is how easy it is to make!

The key components of this dish are so simple yet packed with flavor. You’ll need 2 cups of crisp cucumbers, sliced just right; 1 cup of onions, thinly sliced for that sweet crunch; and 1 cup of ripe tomatoes, chopped to perfection. These ingredients blend beautifully with 1/4 cup of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of vinegar—apple cider or red wine vinegar would both work wonderfully—along with salt, black pepper, and a touch of sugar if you prefer. Fresh herbs, like dill or parsley, provide a delightful finish, adding both color and depth to the dish’s profile.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its ease. Start by mixing your cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, salt, black pepper, and sugar, if you choose to use it. Pour this dressing over the vegetable mix and toss to coat everything evenly. Allow the salad to marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving it, letting all those flavors meld together. Don’t forget to garnish with freshly chopped herbs right before serving—this dish is perfect as a refreshing side or a light meal all on its own!

Think about those warm summer evenings when you need a light and refreshing side dish for a barbecue. Or picture this delightful salad at your next family potluck, where everyone will ask for seconds. It’s the kind of dish that brightens up any meal and makes you feel good about what you’re eating.

Why You’ll Love This Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes

• Quick to Prepare: With minimal chopping and mixing, you can whip this salad together in no time.
• Simple Ingredients: All ingredients are likely already in your kitchen or can be found easily at your local grocery store.
• Light and Refreshing: This dish is packed with fresh vegetables and is low in calories, making it great for any meal.
• Versatile: Perfect as a side for grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a standalone dish.
• Flavorful and Nourishing: The combination of herbs and spices enhances the fresh veggies, offering a burst of flavor without added heaviness.

Cucumber Tips

Cucumbers are the star of this recipe, and choosing the right ones can make a significant difference. For the best flavor and texture, look for firm cucumbers that feel heavy for their size. Their skin should be vibrant and without blemishes. If you prefer a less bitter taste, you might want to peel the cucumbers before slicing them, as some varieties can have a slightly bitter skin. Remember, fresh cucumbers can elevate your dish, so select the best ones available!

Options for Substitutions

• Substitute zucchini for cucumbers for a unique twist.
• Use red or yellow onions for a sweeter flavor instead of regular onions.
• Instead of tomatoes, try using roasted red peppers for a deeper flavor.
• Swap out olive oil for avocado oil for a different taste profile.
• Consider using balsamic vinegar in place of apple cider or red wine vinegar for sweetness.
• Fresh herbs can be interchanged; try basil or cilantro for a fresh taste.

Watch Out for These Mistakes

While making marinated cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes is straightforward, common pitfalls can arise. One mistake to avoid is not allowing the salad to marinate long enough. If you serve it immediately after tossing, the flavors won’t have the chance to meld properly. Ideally, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes so everything can soak up each other’s flavors.

Another common error is using vegetables that are not at their peak freshness. Wilted or overripe cucumbers and tomatoes can turn a refreshing dish into a mushy mess. For the best results, always choose vibrant, crisp vegetables.

Lastly, be mindful of the seasoning. If you find the salad too salty or too tangy, adjust the amount of salt or vinegar gradually. Taste as you go—it’s the best way to ensure a balanced flavor.

What to Serve With Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes?

This marinated salad pairs beautifully with several dishes. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish, enhancing your main course with bright flavors. It also works wonderfully as a fresh side for sandwiches, burgers, or wraps. For a more substantial meal, you could even enjoy it alongside a quinoa or grain salad for a delightful combo.

Storage Instructions

Store: This marinated salad can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen over time, but the vegetables will start to lose their crispness.

Freeze: While freezing is not recommended for this salad due to the high water content of cucumbers and tomatoes, you can prep the dressing in advance and store it in the fridge.

Reheat: If you choose to make it ahead, simply toss it back in the fridge—there’s no need to reheat, and the cold salad serves as a refreshing dish right from the fridge.

Recipe Info

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (marination)
Total Time: 40 minutes
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Servings: Approximately 4-6 servings

Estimated Nutrition

Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):

• Calories: 280-320
• Protein: 3-5 grams
• Fat: 28-30 grams
• Carbohydrates: 14-20 grams

Ingredients

• 2 cups cucumbers, sliced
• 1 cup onions, thinly sliced
• 1 cup tomatoes, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons vinegar (such as apple cider or red wine vinegar)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
• Fresh herbs (like dill or parsley) for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Combine the Vegetables

In a large bowl, place your sliced cucumbers, thinly sliced onions, and chopped tomatoes. Ensure they are well mixed for an even distribution of flavors.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, salt, black pepper, and sugar if you decide to use it. Mix until the dressing is well combined.

Step 3: Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over your vegetable mix in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.

Step 4: Marinate

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the salad to marinate for at least 30 minutes. This lets the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, sprinkle fresh herbs over the salad to add color and flavor. Serve chilled and enjoy!

In conclusion, this marinated cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes dish is a must-try for anyone looking to add a light, refreshing, and flavorful side to their meals. Its simplicity and versatility make it an ideal option for any occasion. I encourage you to give this recipe a try, and I would love to hear your thoughts! Feel free to leave a comment below, sharing your experience or any variations you’ve made, and explore other delicious recipes on the blog!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad tastes even better after marinating for a few hours, so making it ahead of time is a great idea. Just keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

Are there any other vegetables that can be added?

Yes! Feel free to add other fresh vegetables you enjoy, such as bell peppers, radishes, or even avocados.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?

While fresh tomatoes are ideal for this recipe, you could use canned tomatoes in a pinch. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid to avoid making the salad soggy.

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