The Fresh & Tangy Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a light side to accompany your meal or a refreshing snack on a hot day, this salad brings together the perfect combination of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy onions. The marinade, made with vinegar, olive oil, and a touch of sugar, brings out the natural flavors of the vegetables while adding a zesty twist. The slight sweetness of the sugar balances the acidity of the vinegar, creating a well-rounded flavor that complements any main course. This salad is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a great go-to recipe for busy weekdays or casual gatherings. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round, with the freshness of the vegetables making it particularly delightful during warmer months.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What makes the Fresh & Tangy Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad so special is the balance of flavors. The cucumbers provide a satisfying crunch, the tomatoes offer juiciness and sweetness, and the onions add a savory kick. The marination process allows the vegetables to soak up the tangy dressing, infusing them with even more flavor. This salad is not only refreshing but also incredibly versatile. You can pair it with grilled meats, enjoy it as a light lunch, or serve it as a side to any dish. The combination of vinegar, sugar, and olive oil gives the salad a well-rounded, tangy flavor that everyone will love. It’s quick to prepare, customizable, and perfect for all types of meals. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate fresh vegetables into your diet.
Ingredients
- 1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped or sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar for a milder flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
Preparation
Step 1: Begin by washing the cucumber, tomatoes, and onion thoroughly. Slice the cucumber into thin rounds and chop or slice the tomatoes. Slice the onion into thin rings or half-rings, depending on your preference.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumber, tomatoes, and onions.
Step 3: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, pepper, and oregano (if using). Stir until the sugar and salt dissolve completely, creating the dressing.
Step 4: Pour the dressing over the sliced vegetables, ensuring they are all coated evenly. Toss the ingredients gently to mix everything together.
Step 5: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to marinate and develop. The longer it sits, the more flavorful it becomes, but you can serve it after 30 minutes if you’re in a hurry.
Step 6: After marinating, give the salad one last gentle toss. Garnish with fresh parsley and optional red pepper flakes for a spicy kick before serving.
Variation
- Add Feta Cheese – Crumble some feta cheese over the salad for a creamy, tangy addition that pairs well with the vegetables.
- Add Olives – For an extra Mediterranean touch, include black or green olives in the salad.
- Spicy Version – Add fresh jalapeño slices or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy twist.
- Herb Variations – Experiment with different herbs such as basil, dill, or mint to customize the flavor of the salad.
- Add Avocado – Incorporate creamy avocado cubes for a richer texture and a mild flavor that complements the tangy marinade.
Cooking Notes
- Marinating Time – If you have the time, let the salad marinate for 1-2 hours for maximum flavor infusion.
- Storage – This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, for the freshest taste, it’s best enjoyed within the first day.
- Serving Size – This recipe serves 4-6 people as a side dish, but you can easily double the recipe for larger gatherings.
- Balance of Tanginess – Feel free to adjust the amount of vinegar or sugar in the dressing to suit your taste preferences. For a more tangy salad, increase the vinegar, or if you prefer a milder version, reduce the vinegar and increase the sugar slightly.
Serving Suggestions
The Fresh & Tangy Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside grilled meats like chicken, steak, or fish for a light and refreshing contrast. It also makes a great accompaniment to burgers, sandwiches, or wraps. For a more substantial meal, serve it with a grain salad or a simple pasta dish. If you’re preparing it for a barbecue or picnic, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It can also stand on its own as a light lunch or a starter for a larger meal.
Tips
- Perfect for Meal Prep – This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a few hours or even the day before you plan to serve it. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits in the marinade.
- Cutting Vegetables – Try to slice the vegetables as evenly as possible to ensure consistent flavor in each bite.
- Tweak the Sweetness – If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add a bit more sugar, or use honey for a more natural sweetener.
- Use a Mandoline – If you have a mandoline slicer, it’s a great tool for getting perfectly even slices of cucumber and onion.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes (including marinating time)
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate values)
- Calories: 80
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad in advance? Yes, this salad can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will intensify as it marinates.
2. Can I use a different type of vinegar? Yes, you can use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar, but red wine vinegar gives the dressing a tangy kick.
3. How can I make the salad spicier? Add fresh chopped jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for an extra kick.
4. Can I add other vegetables to the salad? Yes, you can add bell peppers, carrots, or radishes for added crunch and flavor.
5. Can I make this salad without sugar? Yes, you can omit the sugar for a more tangy salad or substitute with a sweetener like honey or agave.
Conclusion
The Fresh & Tangy Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad is a light, refreshing, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its combination of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy onions, all coated in a zesty marinade, creates a flavor explosion that’s both refreshing and satisfying. This salad is a wonderful accompaniment to almost any meal, and its simplicity allows the fresh ingredients to shine. Whether you’re looking for a side dish for a BBQ, a healthy snack, or a salad to serve at a dinner party, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Customize it to your liking by adding herbs, spices, or additional vegetables, and enjoy the burst of flavor it brings to your table!