Marinated Cucumbers Onions Tomatoes: A Refreshing Summer Salad Recipe

Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes: A Refreshing Delight

Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes are not just a side dish; they are a vibrant celebration of flavors that can elevate any meal. This delightful combination has roots in various cultures, often found gracing tables during summer picnics and family gatherings. The crispness of the cucumbers, the sharpness of the onions, and the sweetness of the tomatoes create a harmonious blend that is both refreshing and satisfying.

People love this dish for its convenience and versatility. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The marination process enhances the natural flavors, resulting in a dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Whether served as a salad, a topping for grilled meats, or a zesty addition to sandwiches, Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes are sure to impress your guests and family alike.

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Ingredients:

• 4 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 2 medium tomatoes, diced
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried dill (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Vegetables

1. Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly under cold water. This helps remove any dirt or pesticides.
2. Using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer, thinly slice the cucumbers. Aim for uniform thickness to ensure even marination.
3. Next, wash the tomatoes and cut them into bite-sized pieces. You can choose to remove the seeds if you prefer a less watery salad.
4. Peel the onion and slice it thinly. If you find raw onions too pungent, you can soak them in cold water for about 10 minutes to mellow their flavor.

Making the Marinade

1. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the white vinegar, water, and granulated sugar. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Add the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried dill (if using) to the vinegar mixture. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes as well.
3. Whisk the marinade until all ingredients are well combined. Taste the marinade and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more sugar for sweetness or more vinegar for tanginess, depending on your preference.

Combining the Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, diced tomatoes, and sliced onions. Toss them gently to mix the vegetables evenly.
2. Pour the prepared marinade over the vegetable mixture. Make sure all the vegetables are well coated with the marinade.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the mixture to a large jar with a tight-fitting lid. This will help the flavors meld together.

Marinating Process

1. Place the covered bowl or jar in the refrigerator. Allow the cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes to marinate for at least 2 hours. For best results, let them sit overnight. This will enhance the flavors and create a deliciously tangy salad.
2. During the marinating time, give the mixture a gentle stir or shake every now and then to ensure that all the vegetables are evenly coated with the marinade.

Serving the Marinated Salad

1. Once the marinating time is complete, take the salad out of the refrigerator. You will notice that the vegetables have released some of their juices, creating a flavorful dressing.
2. Give the salad a gentle toss to redistribute the marinade. If you find the salad too tangy, you can add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.
3. Transfer the marinated cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes to a serving dish. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or dill for an added touch of color and flavor.
4. Serve the salad chilled as a refreshing side dish or as a topping for grilled meats or sandwiches. It pairs wonderfully with barbecued dishes and is perfect for summer gatherings.

Storage Tips

1. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will keep well for up to 3 days.
2. As the salad sits, the flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day. However, the cucumbers may become softer over time, so enjoy it while it’s fresh!

Variations and Additions

• For a Mediterranean twist, add feta cheese and olives to the salad.
• Incorporate bell peppers or rad

  

  Conclusion:

  If you’re looking for a refreshing and vibrant dish that perfectly complements any meal, then this Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes recipe is an absolute must-try! The combination of crisp cucumbers, sweet onions, and juicy tomatoes, all marinated in a tangy dressing, creates a delightful medley of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Not only is this dish incredibly easy to prepare, but it also brings a burst of color and freshness to your table, making it an ideal side for barbecues, picnics, or even a light lunch.

  One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can serve it as a side dish alongside grilled meats, fish, or even as a topping for tacos and sandwiches. If you want to elevate the dish even further, consider adding some fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an extra layer of flavor. You could also toss in some feta cheese or olives for a Mediterranean twist, or even add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a richer taste. The possibilities are endless, and you can easily customize it to suit your preferences or the ingredients you have on hand.

  I encourage you to give this Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes recipe a try! It’s not only a fantastic way to enjoy fresh produce, but it also makes for a great conversation starter at gatherings. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you add any unique ingredients or variations? How did your family and friends react to this delicious dish? Sharing your culinary adventures not only inspires others but also helps to create a community of food lovers who appreciate the joy of cooking and sharing meals together.

  So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this delightful recipe. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or enjoying it as a light snack, this Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Don’t forget to snap a picture and share it on social media with your friends and family. Happy cooking!

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  Marinated Cucumbers Onions Tomatoes: A Refreshing Summer Salad Recipe

  This marinated cucumber, tomato, and onion salad is a light and refreshing side dish perfect for summer. Tossed in a tangy vinegar-based marinade, it pairs beautifully with grilled meats and sandwiches, making it an easy and flavorful addition to any gathering. Enjoy it chilled for a delightful taste experience!

  Prep Time15 minutes

  Cook Time0 minutes

  Total Time135 minutes

  Category: Snacks

  Yield: 6-8 servings

  Save This Recipe

  Ingredients

  • 4 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 2 medium tomatoes, diced
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup white vinegar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried dill (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)

  Instructions

  1. Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or pesticides.
  2. Using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer, thinly slice the cucumbers, aiming for uniform thickness for even marination.
  3. Wash the tomatoes and cut them into bite-sized pieces, removing seeds if you prefer a less watery salad.
  4. Peel the onion and slice it thinly. If raw onions are too pungent, soak them in cold water for about 10 minutes to mellow their flavor.
  5. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the white vinegar, water, and granulated sugar. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
  6. Add the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried dill (if using) to the vinegar mixture. If you like heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes.
  7. Whisk the marinade until all ingredients are well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  8. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, diced tomatoes, and sliced onions. Toss gently to mix.
  9. Pour the prepared marinade over the vegetable mixture, ensuring all vegetables are well coated.
  10. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to a large jar with a tight-fitting lid.
  11. Place the covered bowl or jar in the refrigerator. Allow the salad to marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
  12. During marination, give the mixture a gentle stir or shake occasionally to ensure even coating.
  13. Once marinated, take the salad out of the refrigerator. The vegetables will have released juices, creating a flavorful dressing.
  14. Gently toss the salad to redistribute the marinade. If too tangy, add a pinch of sugar to balance flavors.
  15. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or dill if desired.
  16. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or topping for grilled meats or sandwiches.

  Notes

  • Soak raw onions in cold water for about 10 minutes to mellow their flavor if they are too pungent.
  • For best results, allow the salad to marinate overnight.
  • Give the mixture a gentle stir or shake occasionally during marination for even coating.
  • If the salad is too tangy, add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • The flavors will develop further over time, but the cucumbers may soften, so enjoy while fresh!
  • For a Mediterranean twist, add feta cheese and olives.
  • Incorporate bell peppers or radishes for extra crunch.