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!