Who doesn’t like a light, refreshing salad that shouts summer? Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad is a traditional, time-tested meal that combines crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and onions with a tangy, slightly sweet marinade. Whether you’re having a backyard BBQ, need a fast side dish for supper, or just want something fresh, this salad has you covered.
It’s not just a crowd-pleaser, but also a meal that even non-salad fans won’t turn down. Let’s get started and bring this beautiful meal to life in your kitchen!
The Reasons You Will Enjoy Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad
- Simple Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and pantry essentials are the only ingredients used in this recipe.
- Adaptable: Ideal as a side dish for grilled meats, burgers, or as a nibble.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: For flavors that will captivate your taste receptors, marinate them overnight.
- Healthy: Nutrient-rich, hydrating, and low in calories.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The following ingredients are required to replicate this flavorful salad:
- Three medium-sized cucumbers, trimmed and cut
- One medium onion, cut into rings
- Three medium-sized tomatoes, sliced into segments
- 1/2 cup of vinegar (white or apple cider are both suitable options)
- One-fourth cup of sugar
- One cup of water
- Two teaspoons of salt
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 cup of oil (olive oil is an excellent option)
- Add 1 teaspoon of minced fresh mint (optional for a refreshing twist)
Step-by-Step Guide for Making Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad
Prepare the veggies.
After peeling the cucumbers, slice them thinly and uniformly.
Slice the tomatoes into luscious slices.
Cut the onion into thin golden pieces. Combine them in a large basin.
Prepare the marinade.
In a separate bowl, combine the vinegar, sugar, water, salt, pepper, and oil. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved. For an extra blast of flavor, try adding freshly minced mint.
Combine.
Distribute the marinade over the veggies. Gently move it to ensure that all surfaces are covered equally.
Relax.
Cover and chill the basin for at least two hours. Marinate it overnight for the best taste.
Serve with pleasure.
Before serving, make sure the mixture is fully combined, and enjoy the refreshing, spicy taste.
Tips to Improve Your Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad
For maximum richness, garnish with vegetables straight from the garden.
Try using balsamic vinegar instead of regular vinegar to get a more complex flavor.
Spice It Up: For a more herbaceous take, try sprinkling in some fresh parsley, basil, or dill.
For a crunchier addition, try slicing some sweet bell peppers or radishes.
Option with Less Sugar: Use a natural sweetener such as stevia or honey in place of sugar.
Perfect Pairings for Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad
Are you looking for the ideal side dish to pair with this tangy salad? Consider these suggestions:
Chicken, steak, or fish cooked on the barbecue goes well with this.
Hummus, pita, and falafel are the perfect accompaniments for a Mediterranean feast.
BBQ Delights: Goes well with ribs, hot dogs, and burgers.
Avocado toast or crusty bread with a dollop of the sauce is a light lunch option.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cucumber Tomato Salad With Marination
How long can I keep this salad in the fridge?
This salad can be kept in the fridge for up to three days in a container that doesn’t let air in. Over time, the tastes get stronger, but the vegetables may stop being crisp.
Can I add more vegetables or food?
Of course! You can make it more Mediterranean by adding bell pepper, onions, or even feta cheese.
Is this salad gluten-free?
To make it keto-friendly, swap out the sugar for erythritol or another sweetener that is okay for keto.
Can I omit the oil?
Yes, but the oil makes the vinegar less acidic, which is nice. If you want to watch your calories, cut back on the amount instead of taking it out completely.
What’s the best way to peel a cucumber?
Smooth and even peeling is best done with a vegetable knife. Peel some skin off in lines to leave some on if you like some structure.
There you have it—a failsafe recipe for Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad that’s both easy and tasty. This recipe is a celebration of fresh ingredients and powerful tastes, making it an excellent accompaniment to any meal. Whether it’s a leisurely summer day or a lively dinner party, this salad will grab the spotlight.
So take your cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions and start marinating! Believe me, your taste senses will appreciate you.
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Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe You’ll Love
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
A refreshing and flavorful salad packed with crisp cucumbers, tangy onions, and juicy tomatoes, marinated in a zesty dressing. Perfect for beating the summer heat or as a light and healthy meal option.
Ingredients
- 2 cucumbers
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1 red onion
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4 tomatoes
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1/4 cup olive oil
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2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 teaspoon sugar
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Salt and pepper to taste
-
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Start by washing the cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion thoroughly.
- Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds and place them in a large bowl.
- Cut the red onion in half and slice it into thin half-moons. Add them to the bowl with the cucumbers.
- Dice the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces and add them to the bowl as well.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables in the large bowl, ensuring that everything is coated evenly.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss to redistribute the dressing. Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra burst of freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: International
