Classic Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad

Introduction

When I first made this Classic Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad, I wasn’t sure how much my family would love it. But after one bite, everyone was hooked! The crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy onions were elevated by the simple yet flavorful marinade, creating a perfect balance of freshness and savory goodness. This salad quickly became a family favorite, especially during the summer when fresh produce is at its peak. It’s so easy to prepare and always seems to hit the spot, whether paired with grilled meats, served at a potluck, or just enjoyed as a refreshing snack on a warm day. Let me share why you’ll love this recipe and how to make it yourself!

Why You’ll Love This Classic Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad

This salad has everything you want in a light and refreshing side dish: it’s crunchy, flavorful, and tangy, with just the right balance of savory and slightly sweet notes. The vegetables are simple and affordable, yet the marinade brings them to life, making it a dish that seems fancy despite being incredibly easy to prepare. The best part? It gets better the longer it sits and marinates, allowing the flavors to really soak into the veggies. Whether you’re serving it as a side to your main course or enjoying it on its own, this salad will become a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 3 medium tomatoes, cut into wedges or thick slices
• 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions. Make sure they are evenly sliced for the best presentation and uniform marination.
2. Make the Marinade:
   In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, black pepper, and oregano (or Italian seasoning). Taste the marinade and adjust seasoning as needed. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, you can add a bit more sugar, but keep in mind that the tomatoes and cucumbers already have natural sweetness.
3. Toss the Salad:
   Pour the marinade over the vegetables in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together to ensure all the vegetables are evenly coated with the marinade. The colors of the tomatoes and cucumbers should pop against the tangy dressing.
4. Marinate:
   Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the vegetables to soak up the flavors. If you have the time, marinate overnight for an even more developed flavor.
5. Garnish and Serve:
   Before serving, toss the salad again to redistribute the marinade and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and extra freshness.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, assuming 6 servings)

• Serving Size: 1/6 of the salad
• Calories: 85
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 380mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

(Note: The nutrition facts are approximate and based on standard ingredients. The sugar amount will vary if you choose to skip or reduce the sugar.)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Marination Time: 1 hour (or up to overnight)
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (plus additional marination time if desired)

How to Serve

• As a side dish to grilled meats, fish, or roasted chicken.
• Pair it with sandwiches for a refreshing bite between bites of your main course.
• Serve alongside barbecue or picnics to add a cool, refreshing note to your meal.
• Enjoy as a light appetizer or snack on hot days.
• Top your tacos or burgers with a spoonful of this salad for extra crunch and flavor.

Additional Tips

1. Customize the Marinade: If you prefer a slightly different flavor, try substituting balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar for a deeper taste.
2. Add More Veggies: You can make this salad even more hearty by adding bell peppers, celery, or even a bit of shredded carrot for a pop of color.
3. Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh oregano or basil, use them instead of dried herbs for a more fragrant salad.
4. Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a mild kick of heat.
5. Serve Chilled: For the best flavor, always serve this salad chilled after it has had time to marinate. The cold temperature enhances the freshness of the ingredients.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of vinegar?
   Yes, you can use apple cider vinegar, red wine vinegar, or even lemon juice for a different flavor profile.
2. Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
   Absolutely! Bell peppers, celery, and radishes are great additions that will complement the other vegetables.
3. How long can I store this marinated salad?
   This salad will keep in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. After that, the vegetables may start to soften too much.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free as long as your vinegar is gluten-free (which most are).
5. Can I skip the sugar?
   Yes, the sugar is optional. You can omit it entirely if you prefer a more tangy salad or if you’re watching your sugar intake.
6. How can I make this salad spicier?
   To add heat, mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes, or add some sliced jalapeños to the vegetables before marinating.
7. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
   Yes, this salad gets even better as it marinates, so it’s great to make the day before and let the flavors develop overnight.
8. How do I adjust the seasoning if the salad is too salty?
   If the salad is too salty, you can balance it by adding a little extra sugar or a splash of vinegar to cut through the saltiness.
9. What can I use instead of parsley for garnish?
   Fresh basil, dill, or cilantro are great alternatives that will bring a fresh, herby flavor to the dish.
10. Is this salad vegan?
    Yes, this salad is completely vegan and made with plant-based ingredients.

This Classic Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad is simple, fresh, and flavorful, making it the perfect side dish for any meal. Whether you’re looking for something light to pair with your main course or you want a salad that can sit and marinate while you focus on other parts of your meal, this recipe has you covered. The crunch of the cucumbers, the juiciness of the tomatoes, and the tang of the vinegar and oregano will surely be a hit at your next gathering or family dinner. Enjoy!

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