Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes is a refreshing and vibrant salad that brings together crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy onions in a simple yet flavorful marinade.
Perfect as a light side dish, it pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fish, or even as a standalone snack.
The balance of acidity from the vinegar, the hint of sweetness, and the fresh herbs make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion, from summer barbecues to weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
2 cucumbers, thinly sliced
1 red onion, sliced into rings
3 medium tomatoes, quartered or sliced
1/4 cup (60 ml) apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
1/4 cup (60 ml) water
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon sugar (optional, depending on your preference)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Instructions:
Prepare the Vegetables:
In a large bowl, combine the cucumbers, red onion, and tomatoes.
Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, water, olive oil, sugar, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until the sugar dissolves.
Assemble the Salad:
Pour the marinade over the vegetables and toss gently to coat evenly.
Marinate:
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 1 to 2 hours, to let the flavors develop.
Serve:
Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil before serving. Serve chilled as a side dish for barbecues, grilled fish, or meat dishes.
To make the best Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes, start by choosing the freshest ingredients for maximum flavor and crunch.
Letting the vegetables marinate for at least an hour enhances their taste, as the vinegar and seasonings meld together beautifully.
You can adjust the sweetness of the marinade by adding or omitting sugar, or substituting it with honey for a natural touch.
For extra texture and flavor, try adding sliced bell peppers, radishes, or even fresh herbs like basil or dill.
If you want to turn this side dish into a complete meal, toss in some feta cheese, chickpeas, or grilled chicken.
Serve it chilled for a refreshing addition to any meal, and store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to two days.
To store Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes properly, transfer the salad to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator.
This will keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing any odors.
The salad can be stored for up to 2 days, though the vegetables may release some liquid during that time.
Before serving, give it a quick stir to redistribute the marinade and refresh the flavors.
If the salad appears too watery, you can drain the excess liquid.
Avoid freezing, as the high water content of cucumbers and tomatoes will cause them to become mushy when thawed.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your salad while it’s still crisp and flavorful.