Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
This Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes recipe is a delightful and refreshing side dish that fits perfectly for summer gatherings or casual dinners. With its vibrant mix of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and zesty onions marinated in a tangy vinaigrette, it offers a burst of flavor that complements any meal. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight addition, this salad is sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This salad can be made in just 30 minutes with minimal effort.
- Fresh Flavors: The combination of cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions creates a refreshing taste that’s perfect for warm weather.
- Versatile: It pairs well with a variety of dishes, from grilled meats to sandwiches.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and light dressing, it’s a guilt-free addition to any meal.
- Make Ahead: The flavors deepen as it marinates, making it even better the next day.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start preparing your Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Storage container
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: Provides enough space to combine all ingredients without spilling.
- Whisk: Helps mix the marinade evenly for consistent flavor throughout the salad.
- Cutting board: Offers a safe surface to chop vegetables while protecting your countertops.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 2 cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 small red or white onion, thinly sliced
For the Marinade
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
How to Make Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Wash the cucumbers thoroughly under cold water.
- Slice the cucumbers thinly using a sharp knife on a cutting board.
- Halve the cherry or grape tomatoes.
- Thinly slice the onion.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Vinegar
- Olive oil
- Minced garlic
- Salt
- Pepper
- If you like some heat, add red pepper flakes into the mixture.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- In a large bowl, add sliced cucumbers, halved tomatoes, and sliced onions.
- Pour the prepared marinade over the vegetables.
Step 4: Toss and Refrigerate
- Gently toss everything together until all vegetables are evenly coated in the marinade.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to a storage container.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving; longer is better for enhanced flavors.
Step 5: Serve Your Salad
- Before serving, give your salad another gentle toss.
- Garnish with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or dill if desired.
Enjoy this vibrant Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes salad as an excellent side dish packed with flavor!
How to Serve Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes make an excellent addition to any meal. Their fresh flavors and crunchy texture can elevate various dishes. Here are some creative ways to serve this delightful salad.
As a Standalone Salad
- Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish on hot summer days.
- Add a sprinkle of feta cheese for extra creaminess and flavor.
In a Wrap or Sandwich
- Layer the marinated vegetables in wraps with grilled chicken or turkey for a satisfying lunch.
- Use them as a topping on sandwiches to add crunch and zest.
With Grilled Meats
- Pair with grilled steak or chicken for a bright contrast to savory flavors.
- Serve alongside barbecued ribs for a classic summer feast.
As a Taco Filling
- Use the marinated mix as a fresh topping for tacos or burritos.
- Combine with shredded cabbage for added texture and taste.
On Top of Rice or Quinoa Bowls
- Spoon over rice or quinoa bowls for added color and nutrition.
- Mix with black beans for a complete vegetarian meal option.
As Part of an Antipasto Platter
- Include in an antipasto platter alongside olives, cheeses, and cured meats.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze for an elegant touch.
How to Perfect Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
To ensure your Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes turn out perfect every time, consider the following tips.
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions. This enhances flavor and crunch.
- Let it Marinate: Allow the salad to sit for at least 30 minutes. The longer it marinates, the better the flavors meld together.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving. You might want to add more salt or vinegar based on your preference.
- Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to swap parsley with basil or cilantro for different flavor profiles.
- Add Extra Crunch: Toss in bell peppers or radishes for additional texture. They complement the salad well.
- Serve Cold: Keep it chilled until ready to serve. This will enhance freshness, especially on warm days.
Best Side Dishes for Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes pair well with many side dishes. Here are some ideas that complement this vibrant salad perfectly.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs beautifully with the tangy salad. Brush with butter before grilling.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread offers a satisfying crunch that complements the crisp vegetables.
- Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad can balance the acidity of the cucumbers and tomatoes nicely.
- Coleslaw: The crunch of coleslaw adds another layer of texture while keeping things light.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted zucchini or bell peppers bring warmth to your plate while contrasting fresh flavors.
- Pasta Salad: A cool pasta salad filled with veggies can enhance your meal’s overall freshness.
- Caprese Skewers: These skewers combine mozzarella balls and basil leaves with cherry tomatoes for an elegant touch.
- Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers make a hearty side that pairs well without overpowering the salad.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.
- Skipping the marination time: Failing to let the vegetables marinate can lead to bland flavors. Allow at least 30 minutes for the best taste.
- Incorrect vegetable slicing: Cutting cucumbers or onions too thick can result in uneven marination. Aim for thin, even slices for maximum flavor absorption.
- Using low-quality vinegar: Not all vinegars are created equal. Choose a good quality apple cider or red wine vinegar for a tangy kick.
- Overloading with salt: Adding too much salt can overpower the dish. Start with a little and adjust to taste after marinating.
- Neglecting fresh herbs: Skipping fresh herbs can make the dish less vibrant. Always add parsley or dill for an added burst of flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep it refrigerated to maintain freshness.
Freezing Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
- It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as it may lose texture and flavor.
- If you must freeze, use a freezer-safe container and consume within a month.
Reheating Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
- Oven: Not suitable for this salad; serve cold.
- Microwave: Avoid microwaving as it will wilt the veggies.
- Stovetop: You can sauté briefly but serve immediately as it’s best cold.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes last?
These can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator if stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I customize the herbs in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to use basil or cilantro instead of parsley or dill for different flavors.
What can I serve with Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes?
This salad pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a topping for tacos.
Are there variations of Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes?
Yes! You can add bell peppers or olives for extra flavor and texture.
Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
Yes, but be sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces so they mix well with other ingredients.
Final Thoughts
Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes is a delightful side dish that brings freshness to any meal. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Try this recipe today and enjoy its refreshing taste!
Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes, a refreshing side dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings or casual dinners. Bursting with crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and zesty onions, all marinated in a tangy vinaigrette, this salad delivers a delightful crunch and bright taste to accompany any meal. Easy to prepare in just 30 minutes, it pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a topping for tacos. Enjoy the benefits of fresh vegetables combined with a light dressing, making it a guilt-free addition to your table. The flavors deepen as it marinates, so it’s even better the next day!
Ingredients
- 2 cucumbers (thinly sliced)
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes (halved)
- 1 small onion (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- Fresh herbs like parsley or dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables by washing and slicing the cucumbers, halving the tomatoes, and thinly slicing the onion.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Combine cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions in a large bowl. Pour the marinade over the vegetables.
- Toss gently until evenly coated and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No cooking required
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 75
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
