Classic Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad

Introduction

When I first made this Classic Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad, I didn’t expect it to be such a hit. My family devoured it in no time, and they all raved about how refreshing and light it was. The combination of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy red onions, all soaked in a flavorful vinegar dressing, created a perfect balance of textures and tastes. It quickly became one of those side dishes that everyone asks for at barbecues, family gatherings, and weeknight dinners. It’s one of those rare recipes that’s simple yet so satisfying—no wonder it’s a crowd favorite!

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Why You’ll Love This Classic Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad

If you love vibrant, tangy flavors with a touch of sweetness, this marinated cucumber, tomato, and onion salad will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation. It’s refreshing, light, and ideal for warm weather. The best part? It’s incredibly versatile and complements nearly every main dish, from grilled meats to sandwiches and pasta. The simple vinaigrette allows the natural flavors of the vegetables to shine, while the longer you let it marinate, the more the flavors meld together. Whether served as a side dish for a family dinner or as a cool, zesty salad at a picnic, this dish is always a winner.

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Ingredients

To make this marinated salad, you’ll need the following fresh ingredients:

• 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 3 medium tomatoes, cut into wedges or thick slices
• 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

These simple ingredients come together beautifully to create a salad that’s both healthy and packed with flavor.

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Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make the salad:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   Begin by slicing the cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion. Place the cucumber slices in a large bowl, then add the tomato wedges or slices, followed by the thinly sliced red onion. Set aside.
2. Make the Marinade:
   In a separate small bowl, whisk together the white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar), olive oil, sugar (if using), salt, black pepper, and oregano. Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning as needed to suit your preferences. The dressing should be tangy but well-balanced with a hint of sweetness from the sugar.
3. Toss the Salad:
   Pour the dressing over the prepared vegetables. Toss everything together gently to ensure the marinade coats all the vegetables evenly. Be careful not to crush the delicate tomatoes.
4. Marinate:
   Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour. For the best flavor, marinate the salad for 4 to 6 hours or even overnight. This will allow the vegetables to soak up the flavors of the dressing.
5. Garnish and Serve:
   Before serving, toss the salad once more to redistribute the marinade. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best experience.

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Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6 (serving size approximately 1 cup)
• Calories per serving: 50 kcal
  • Total Fat: 4g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.5g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 230mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Protein: 1g

This salad is light on calories but bursting with flavor, making it a great low-calorie side dish for any meal. It’s also a fantastic option for anyone looking for a refreshing, low-carb addition to their diet.

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Preparation Time

• Total Time: 1 hour, 10 minutes (including marinating time)
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Marinating Time: At least 1 hour (up to overnight for best flavor)

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How to Serve

This classic marinated cucumber, tomato, and onion salad is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of main dishes. Here are a few ways to serve it:

• As a Side Dish:
  Serve it alongside grilled meats such as chicken, pork, or beef for a fresh contrast to the richness of the proteins.
• With Sandwiches or Wraps:
  It’s the perfect side for a simple sandwich or wrap. Try it with a turkey club or a veggie wrap for a light lunch.
• At Barbecues or Picnics:
  This salad travels well, making it a fantastic addition to any outdoor gathering. The tangy dressing is refreshing in the summer heat.
• With Pasta Dishes:
  Pair it with pasta salads or even a simple spaghetti dish for added crunch and a burst of flavor.
• As a Healthy Snack:
  Enjoy it as a healthy snack on its own or with whole-grain crackers for a satisfying mid-day bite.

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Additional Tips

Here are five tips to elevate your marinated cucumber, tomato, and onion salad:

1. Use English Cucumbers:
   If possible, opt for English cucumbers as they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, making them less bitter and more refreshing.
2. Allow Time for Marination:
   For the best flavor, let the salad marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight. The longer the vegetables sit in the dressing, the more flavorful they become.
3. Add a Touch of Fresh Garlic:
   If you like garlic, try adding a small clove of finely minced garlic to the marinade for an extra layer of flavor.
4. Swap Vinegar Types:
   While white vinegar is classic, you can experiment with apple cider vinegar for a milder, slightly fruity taste or red wine vinegar for a bolder flavor.
5. Make it a Meal:
   For a more filling dish, add some protein, like chickpeas, grilled chicken breast, or feta cheese, to make it a complete meal.

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FAQ Section

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad gets better as it sits. You can prepare it up to a day in advance, and it will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

2. Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Yes! Feel free to swap white vinegar with apple cider vinegar, balsamic vinegar, or red wine vinegar, depending on your flavor preference.

3. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

4. How can I make this salad spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely chopped jalapeño to the marinade for a spicy kick.

5. Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, radishes, or even a few olives for additional flavor and color.

6. Is it necessary to add sugar?
The sugar is optional and helps balance the acidity of the vinegar. If you prefer a more tangy salad, you can skip the sugar.

7. Can I use a different oil?
While olive oil works best in this recipe, you can substitute with avocado oil or a neutral oil like canola oil if you prefer.

8. How long can I store this salad?
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The vegetables may release more liquid over time, but the flavor will still be great.

9. Can I add cheese to this salad?
Feta cheese or mozzarella works wonderfully in this salad, adding a creamy contrast to the crunchy vegetables.

10. Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes, this salad is naturally vegan as long as you don’t add cheese or other non-vegan ingredients.

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Conclusion

This Classic Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad is a refreshing, versatile, and easy-to-make dish that will quickly become a go-to for all your summer meals. With its simple ingredients, tangy dressing, and fresh flavors, it’s the perfect complement to grilled meats, pasta dishes, or even as a standalone snack. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, serving it alongside dinner, or just craving something light and delicious, this salad will impress every time. So go ahead—give it a try, and watch your family and friends enjoy every bite!

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