Let me tell you about my absolute favorite summer dish: marinated cucumber tomato and onion salad! This salad is like a refreshing breeze on a hot day. The crispness of the cucumbers combined with the juicy tomatoes and sharpness of the onions creates a symphony of flavors that just dances on your palate. I love making this salad for picnics or barbecues because it’s not only light and healthy, but it’s also super quick to whip up! Plus, the longer it marinates, the better the flavors meld together. Trust me, you’ll want to keep a big bowl of this in your fridge all summer long. It’s perfect on its own or as a vibrant side dish to grilled meats or sandwiches. Get ready to enjoy a burst of freshness in every bite!
Ingredients List
For this delicious marinated cucumber tomato and onion salad, you’ll need the following fresh ingredients:
- 2 cups cucumbers, sliced into thin rounds
- 2 cups tomatoes, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil, for that rich flavor
- 1/4 cup vinegar, I love using red wine vinegar for a little zing
- 1 teaspoon salt, to enhance all those vibrant flavors
- 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground if you can
- 1 teaspoon sugar, just to balance the acidity
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped for a pop of color and freshness
Make sure to use the freshest vegetables you can find—they really make a difference in taste and texture!
How to Prepare the Marinated Cucumber Tomato and Onion Salad
Now, let’s dive into how to make this refreshing marinated cucumber tomato and onion salad! It’s super simple, and I promise you’ll feel like a culinary pro when you’re done. Grab a large mixing bowl and a whisk, and let’s get started!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, slice your cucumbers into thin rounds and chop your tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large bowl along with the thinly sliced red onion.
- In another bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, salt, black pepper, and sugar. This dressing is where the magic happens, so whisk it well until everything’s combined!
- Pour that delicious dressing over the veggies in the large bowl. Make sure everything gets coated nicely—you want every bite to be bursting with flavor!
- Next, add in the chopped parsley. It not only adds a splash of color but also a fresh taste that ties the whole dish together.
- Give it all a gentle toss to mix everything well, then cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid.
- Now, here’s the crucial part: refrigerate your salad for at least 30 minutes. This marination time allows all the flavors to mingle and develop. If you have the time, letting it sit for a few hours is even better!
Once you’re ready to serve, just give it another quick stir, and you’re good to go! This salad is perfect for hot summer days or any time you need a refreshing side dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This marinated cucumber tomato and onion salad is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of fresh flavors and healthy eating! Here are a few reasons why you’ll absolutely adore it:
- Quick Preparation: With just a few minutes of chopping and mixing, you can have this salad ready to go. It’s perfect for those busy days!
- Fresh Ingredients: Using vibrant, fresh veggies not only enhances the taste but also adds a burst of color to your table.
- Low Calories: This salad is light and guilt-free, making it a great option for anyone watching their calorie intake.
- Versatile: Enjoy it on its own, as a side, or even as a topping for grilled meats or sandwiches. The possibilities are endless!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: It keeps well in the fridge, so you can prepare it ahead of time and let the flavors deepen.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer barbecue, picnic, or just a light lunch at home, this salad fits right in!
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making this refreshing salad all summer long!
Tips for Success
To make sure your marinated cucumber tomato and onion salad turns out absolutely perfect every time, here are some of my pro tips:
- Freshness is Key: Always use the freshest cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions you can find. They’ll not only taste better, but they’ll also have the best texture, making your salad even more delightful!
- Marination Matters: Don’t rush the marination process! While 30 minutes is the minimum, letting it sit for a few hours or even overnight in the fridge really allows the flavors to marry and develop a depth that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Season to Taste: Feel free to adjust the salt, pepper, and sugar to your personal preference. If you like it a little sweeter, add a pinch more sugar. If you prefer a tangier flavor, a splash more vinegar can do wonders!
- Experiment with Herbs: While parsley is fantastic, try mixing in other fresh herbs like basil or dill for a different twist. Each herb brings its own unique flavor that can elevate your salad!
- Cut Uniformly: Make sure to slice your vegetables uniformly. This not only makes the salad look prettier but also ensures that every bite has a balanced mix of flavors and textures.
- Chill Before Serving: If you can, allow the salad to chill a bit longer before serving. It tastes even more refreshing when it’s nice and cold!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a stunning and scrumptious marinated cucumber tomato and onion salad that everyone will love!
Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up with your marinated cucumber tomato and onion salad, you’re in luck! There are so many fun variations you can try to keep it exciting and tailor it to your taste buds. Here are a few ideas that I absolutely love:
- Add Avocado: Dice up some creamy avocado for a rich texture and a boost of healthy fats. It adds a delightful creaminess that pairs perfectly with the crunch of the cucumbers!
- Spice it Up: If you’re a fan of heat, throw in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Just be careful—start with a little and adjust to your liking!
- Switch Up the Herbs: While parsley is a classic choice, experiment with fresh dill, cilantro, or even mint. Each herb brings its own unique flavor that can totally transform the salad.
- Incorporate Feta or Mozzarella: Crumbled feta cheese or small mozzarella balls can add a deliciously salty and creamy element. It’s like giving your salad a Mediterranean twist!
- Try Different Veggies: Don’t be afraid to get creative with other vegetables! Bell peppers, radishes, or even zucchini can add new flavors and textures. Just remember to slice them thinly for the best results.
- Add a Sweet Element: Toss in some halved cherry tomatoes or even diced mango for a hint of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory elements.
- Citrus Zing: A splash of fresh lemon or lime juice right before serving can brighten up the entire dish and enhance all those fabulous flavors!
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your own signature version of this marinated cucumber tomato and onion salad. The best part? You can let your creativity shine and make it uniquely yours!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your marinated cucumber tomato and onion salad is super simple! Just transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days, which is perfect for meal prep or enjoying throughout the week. You might find that the flavors deepen even more after a day or two, making it taste even better!
Now, if you’re planning to serve it again after a couple of days, I recommend giving it a quick stir before serving. This will help redistribute the dressing and any juices that have settled at the bottom. If it seems a bit dry, just drizzle in a little more olive oil or vinegar to refresh it. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also work wonders to brighten the flavors back up!
Oh, and one thing to keep in mind: this salad is best served cold, so make sure to allow it to chill in the fridge for a bit before you dig in again. Trust me, nothing beats that refreshing burst of flavor on a warm day!
Nutritional Information
So, let’s chat about the nutritional side of this marinated cucumber tomato and onion salad! It’s always good to know what you’re putting into your body, right? However, keep in mind that the nutrition values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just a rough estimate.
Here’s what you can typically expect per serving (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 2g
With its low calorie count and healthy fats, this salad is not just refreshing but also a great addition to a balanced diet. Enjoy every bite without any guilt!
FAQ Section
Got questions about the marinated cucumber tomato and onion salad? I’ve got answers! Here are some common queries that pop up, and I’m here to help you out:
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it ahead of time allows the flavors to deepen even more. I often prepare it a few hours or even the day before serving, which makes it perfect for parties or meal prep.
What kind of vinegar works best?
I love using red wine vinegar for that extra zing, but feel free to experiment! Apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar can also add unique flavors that work well with the fresh veggies.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! This salad is super versatile. You can throw in bell peppers, radishes, or even shredded carrots for added crunch and color. Just make sure to slice them thinly for even marination.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, the marinated cucumber tomato and onion salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions!
What’s the best way to serve it?
Serve it chilled as a side dish at barbecues, picnics, or alongside grilled meats. It’s also fantastic on its own as a light lunch. Enjoy the refreshing flavors!
Marinated Cucumber Tomato and Onion Salad: 5 Fresh Boosts
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing salad made with marinated cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cucumbers, sliced
- 2 cups tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, salt, pepper, and sugar.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables.
- Add chopped parsley and mix well.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For best flavor, let it marinate for a few hours.
- Use fresh vegetables for a crisp texture.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: marinated cucumber tomato and onion salad
