Marinated Cucumbers Onions Tomatoes: A Refreshing Summer Salad Recipe

Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes are a delightful and refreshing dish that brings a burst of flavor to any meal. This vibrant salad is not only easy to prepare but also offers a perfect balance of tanginess and crunch that makes it a favorite among many. Originating from various culinary traditions around the world, this dish has been a staple in summer picnics and family gatherings for generations. The combination of crisp cucumbers, zesty onions, and juicy tomatoes creates a medley of textures and tastes that is simply irresistible.

People love Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes for their versatility and convenience. Whether served as a side dish, a topping for grilled meats, or even as a light snack, this salad is a go-to option for those seeking a healthy yet satisfying addition to their meals. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can enjoy this refreshing dish that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also adds a splash of color to your table. Join me as we dive into this delightful recipe that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 4 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 2 medium tomatoes, diced
• 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Vegetables

1. Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly under cold water. I like to use a vegetable brush to scrub them gently, ensuring they are clean and free from any dirt or pesticides. 2. Once washed, slice the cucumbers thinly. You can use a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer for even thickness. Aim for about 1/8 inch thick slices for the best texture. 3. Next, take the tomatoes and dice them into bite-sized pieces. I usually cut them in half, remove the seeds, and then chop them into cubes. This helps to reduce excess moisture in the salad. 4. For the onion, peel off the outer skin and slice it thinly. If you find raw onions too pungent, you can soak the slices in cold water for about 10 minutes to mellow their flavor.

Making the Marinade

5. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the white vinegar and olive oil. I prefer using a whisk to blend them together until they are well combined. 6. Add the sugar to the vinegar and oil mixture. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. This step is crucial as it balances the acidity of the vinegar. 7. Next, sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and garlic powder. Whisk again until all the ingredients are well incorporated. The marinade should have a nice balance of tangy and sweet flavors.

Combining the Ingredients

8. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, diced tomatoes, and sliced onions. I like to use a large bowl to give myself plenty of room to mix everything without making a mess. 9. Pour the marinade over the vegetable mixture. Make sure to coat all the vegetables evenly. I usually use a spatula to gently toss everything together, ensuring that the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions are well coated with the marinade. 10. Once everything is mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. If you have more time, you can refrigerate it for a couple of hours or even overnight for a more intense flavor.

Serving the Marinated Salad

11. After the marinating time is up, give the salad another gentle toss. You’ll notice that the cucumbers have released some of their moisture, creating a delicious dressing. 12. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a bit more acidity, feel free to add a splash more vinegar. If it’s too tangy, a pinch more sugar can help balance it out. 13. Transfer the marinated cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes to a serving dish. If you like, you can garnish it with freshly chopped parsley or dill for an added touch of color and flavor. 14. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a refreshing side dish for any meal.

Storage Tips

15. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will continue to develop, and the salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again. 16. Keep in mind that the cucumbers may become softer over time, so it’s best enjoyed within the first couple of days for the best texture.

Variations and Add-Ins

17. Feel free to customize this marinated salad to your liking! You can add bell peppers for a crunchier texture or even some feta cheese for a creamy element. 18. If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade. 19. For a more Mediterranean twist, you can include olives or capers, which will add a briny flavor that complements the fresh vegetables beautifully. 20. Experiment with different herbs as well! Fresh basil, mint, or cilantro can bring a unique flavor profile to the dish. This mar

Conclusion:

In summary, this Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their side dish game. The vibrant flavors and refreshing crunch make it a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a light snack on its own. Plus, the versatility of this dish allows you to customize it to your liking—feel free to add bell peppers for extra color, a sprinkle of feta cheese for creaminess, or even a dash of chili flakes for a spicy kick. I encourage you to give this recipe a go and experience the delightful combination of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors that will surely impress your family and friends. Once you’ve tried it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you made, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the joy of this Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes dish together! Happy cooking!

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