Name: Marinated Cucumbers Onions Tomatoes: 5 Zesty Variations
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 large Cucumbers (The fresher, the better); 1 medium Red Onion (Soak in cold water for a milder flavor); 3 medium Ripe Tomatoes (Choose vine-ripened for best flavor); 1/2 cup Apple Cider Vinegar (Can substitute with balsamic vinegar); 1/4 cup Olive Oil (Use extra virgin for rich flavor); 1 tablespoon Sugar (Can use honey or agave as alternatives); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Kosher salt is preferred); 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper (Freshly cracked preferred); 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano (Fresh oregano works too); 1 clove Garlic (Minced; adjust based on preference)

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Marinated Cucumbers Onions Tomatoes salad is a refreshing delight that brings vibrant flavors to any meal or gathering. This dish combines the crispness of cucumbers, the sweetness of onions, and the juiciness of ripe tomatoes, all brought together by a zesty marinade. Perfect for summer barbecues or as a light side dish, this salad is not just tasty but also healthy, making it an ideal addition to various diets.

Why You’ll Love This Marinated Cucumbers Onions Tomatoes

This Marinated Cucumbers Onions Tomatoes salad is a must-try for its numerous benefits. First, it’s incredibly refreshing, perfect for hot days. Second, it’s a quick recipe that can be prepared in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules. Third, this salad uses simple, wholesome ingredients, making it a healthy cucumber onion tomato salad choice. Moreover, it caters to various dietary preferences as it’s vegetarian and can easily be made vegan. Additionally, it can serve as a flavorful side dish or a light main course, ensuring versatility in your meal planning. Finally, the vibrant colors make it visually appealing, adding a pop of freshness to your table.

Ingredients for Marinated Cucumbers Onions Tomatoes

Gather these items:

2 large Cucumbers (The fresher, the better)
1 medium Red Onion (Soak in cold water for a milder flavor)
3 medium Ripe Tomatoes (Choose vine-ripened for best flavor)
1/2 cup Apple Cider Vinegar (Can substitute with balsamic vinegar)
1/4 cup Olive Oil (Use extra virgin for rich flavor)
1 tablespoon Sugar (Can use honey or agave as alternatives)
1/2 teaspoon Salt (Kosher salt is preferred)
1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper (Freshly cracked preferred)
1 teaspoon Dried Oregano (Fresh oregano works too)
1 clove Garlic (Minced; adjust based on preference)

How to Make Marinated Cucumbers Onions Tomatoes Step-by-Step

Step 1: Start by taking a large bowl. Gently toss together your thinly sliced cucumbers, red onion, and chopped tomatoes.
Step 2: In a separate bowl, combine the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and minced garlic. Whisk until the sugar dissolves.
Step 3: Pour the marinade over the fresh vegetables. Toss everything together to coat well.
Step 4: Cover the salad and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Pro Tips for the Best Marinated Cucumbers Onions Tomatoes

Keep these in mind:

For extra flavor, let the salad marinate for a few hours or overnight.
To balance the acidity, add more sugar if you prefer a sweeter taste.
Experiment with adding different herbs like parsley or dill for a unique twist.
This is a no-cook method, making it perfect for warm days or meal prep.

Marinated Cucumbers Onions Tomatoes: 5 Zesty Variations - Marinated Cucumbers Onions Tomatoes - main visual representation

Best Ways to Serve Marinated Cucumbers Onions Tomatoes

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats for a hearty meal. Alternatively, serve it on a bed of greens for a fresh cucumber onion tomato salad. It can also be an excellent topping for tacos or burritos, adding a refreshing crunch.

How to Store and Reheat Marinated Cucumbers Onions Tomatoes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad can last for up to three days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you’re meal prepping, consider keeping the dressing separate and combining it just before serving to maintain crispness.

Frequently Asked Questions About Marinated Cucumbers Onions Tomatoes

What’s the secret to perfect Marinated Cucumbers Onions Tomatoes?

The secret lies in allowing the salad to marinate long enough for the flavors to meld, ideally a few hours or overnight. This ensures a more flavorful and refreshing dish.

Can I make Marinated Cucumbers Onions Tomatoes ahead of time?

Yes! This salad is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it the night before, and let it sit in the fridge to enhance the flavors even more.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Marinated Cucumbers Onions Tomatoes?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you slice the vegetables evenly for consistent marination. Also, adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences, especially with the vinegar and sugar balance.

Variations of Marinated Cucumbers Onions Tomatoes You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with this salad! You can create a spicy marinated cucumbers onions tomatoes version by adding chili flakes. Alternatively, try a Mediterranean-style marinated cucumbers onions tomatoes by incorporating olives and feta cheese. For a twist, use balsamic vinegar for a sweeter profile or add avocado for creaminess. Each variation offers a unique spin on this classic salad!

Marinated Cucumbers Onions Tomatoes: 5 Zesty Variations - Marinated Cucumbers Onions Tomatoes - additional detail

For more information on healthy eating, you can visit Healthline’s nutrition section. If you want to learn more about the benefits of vinegar, check out this study on vinegar. Additionally, you can read about the importance of fresh ingredients in cooking at Serious Eats.

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