Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad
A perfect way to savor the freshness of summer, the Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad is a vibrant dish that balances flavors effortlessly. This easy combination of cucumber, onion, and tomato will brighten any meal and refresh your palate. With minimal preparation and maximum flavor, this salad is a must-have on warm days.
Yield
This recipe yields six servings and involves a total preparation time of approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, including 15 minutes of hands-on prep time and 2 hours for the flavors to meld together.
Ingredients
cucumber – 3, peeled and sliced 1/4-inch thick
tomatoes – 3, cut into wedges
onion – 1, sliced and separated into rings
1 cup water
½ cup distilled white vinegar
¼ cup vegetable oil
¼ cup sugar
1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper, or to taste
Instructions for Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Firstly, wash all the vegetables thoroughly. Peel the cucumbers and slice them into 1/4-inch thick slices. Next, cut the tomatoes into wedges. Finally, slice the onion and separate into rings.
Step 2: Create the Marinade
In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of water, ½ cup of distilled white vinegar, ¼ cup of vegetable oil, and ¼ cup of sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Then, season with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of freshly ground pepper or adjust to taste.
Step 3: Mix the Salad
Add the prepared cucumbers, tomatoes, and onion into the bowl with the marinade. Toss the salad gently to ensure that all pieces are coated with the marinade.
Step 4: Marinate
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to blend harmoniously, resulting in a delighful tasting marinated cucumber tomato salad.
Step 5: Serve
After marinating, give the salad a good toss before serving. This refreshing salad is best enjoyed cooled on a hot summer day. Serve as a complement to your favorite grilled dishes or as a standalone delight.
Healthier Cooking Options
Although the original recipe calls for vegetable oil, consider substituting with olive oil for a healthier option. Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats which are beneficial for heart health. Moreover, you might include a medley of fresh herbs to enhance flavors naturally.
Why You’ll Love This Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad
This salad is a quick and easy way to enjoy seasonal produce at its peak. It’s nutritious, hydrating, and remarkably tasty. Above all, it captures the essence of summer in every bite. Add this marinated cucumber tomato salad to your meal plan and relish a delightful mix of crunch and tang.
Don’t forget to explore the possibilities with a variety of complementary dishes alongside this salad. Trust us, it’s a refreshing addition to any summer gathering.