Garden Delight: Marinated Cucumber, Onion & Tomato Salad
Craving a light and refreshing salad that explodes with garden-fresh flavor? Look no further than this Marinated Cucumber, Onion & Tomato Salad! This incredibly easy-to-make dish is a delightful addition to any meal. It's perfect for summer barbecues or a light and healthy side dish that you can enjoy year-round.
Why This Marinated Cucumber, Onion & Tomato Salad Deserves a Spot on Your Table:
- Simple Perfection: This salad is all about simplicity. With minimal ingredients and even less prep work, it's a lifesaver for busy cooks who want a delicious and healthy side dish.
- A Versatile Delight: Enjoy this salad on its own as a refreshing starter or pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or any of your favorite main courses. It's a versatile crowd-pleaser that complements a variety of dishes.
- Fun and Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to personalize the flavor profile and make it your own. For a touch of sweetness, add a pinch of dried dill or a sprinkle of sugar.
Ingredients to Gather for Your Marinated Garden Adventure:
- For the Garden-Fresh Trio:
- 3 medium cucumbers, peeled and sliced 1/4-inch thick - crisp and refreshing base
- 1 medium onion, sliced and separated into rings - adds a bit of bite
- 3 medium tomatoes, cut into wedges - juicy pops of flavor and color
- For the Tangy and Flavorful Marinade:
- ½ cup vinegar (white or apple cider vinegar recommended) - the base of the tangy marinade
- ¼ cup sugar - balances the tang with a touch of sweetness
- 1 cup water - thins out the marinade to the perfect consistency
- 2 teaspoons salt - enhances all the flavors
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper - a touch of peppery heat
- ¼ cup olive oil - adds richness and body to the marinade
- 1 teaspoon fresh mint, chopped (optional) - a refreshing herbal touch
Step-by-Step Guide to Marinated Garden Bliss:
- Gather Your Ingredients: Wash and prepare the cucumbers, onion, and tomatoes according to the ingredient list.
- Creating the Marinade: In a large bowl, grab your whisk and combine the vinegar, sugar, water, salt, pepper, and olive oil. If you're using fresh mint, stir it in now.
- Bringing it All Together: Add the sliced cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes to the bowl with the marinade. Toss everything gently to ensure all the vegetables are well coated in the flavorful liquid.
- Marinating for Maximum Flavor: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours, but ideally longer (up to overnight). The longer it marinates, the more the flavors will meld and develop, creating an explosion of taste in every bite.
- Serve and Savor: Once chilled, remove the Marinated Cucumber, Onion, & Tomato Salad from the refrigerator and serve immediately. Enjoy the refreshing flavors and crisp textures!
Tips for Extra Marinated Garden Goodness:
- Spicy Kick: For an extra zesty kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a touch of heat.
- Leftover Love: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop and intensify over time, so feel free to make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week.
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