Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
This Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes recipe is a refreshing and flavorful side dish that shines in summer gatherings or any meal. With crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and zesty onions marinated in a tangy vinaigrette, this salad is both vibrant and delicious. It’s versatile enough to accompany various main dishes and can also be enjoyed on its own as a light snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few fresh ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up this salad in no time.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of vinegar, olive oil, and fresh herbs brings a delightful taste that enhances the veggies.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a barbecue, picnic, or weekday dinner, this salad fits right in.
- Healthy Choice: Packed with vegetables, this dish offers nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
- Make Ahead: It’s ideal for meal prep since it tastes even better after marinating!
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes preparing Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes a breeze. Here are some essential tools to have on hand:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all the ingredients easily without making a mess.
- Whisk: Using a whisk ensures that your marinade is well blended for maximum flavor distribution.
- Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes slicing vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces for even marination.
Ingredients
For the Vegetables
- 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 and slice the cucumbers into thin rounds. Halve the cherry or grape tomatoes. Thinly slice the onion.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together the apple cider vinegar (or red wine vinegar) with extra virgin olive oil.
2. Add minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl:
1. Combine the sliced cucumbers, halved tomatoes, and sliced onions.
2. Pour the marinade over the vegetables.
Step 4: Toss to Coat
Gently toss all ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with the marinade.
Step 5: Refrigerate
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For best results, let it sit for several hours or overnight.
Step 6: Serve
Before serving, toss again to redistribute the marinade. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill if desired.
Enjoy your Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes as a refreshing side dish at your next meal!
How to Serve Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
This refreshing salad is versatile and can complement a variety of meals. You can serve it in different styles to enhance your dining experience.
As a Standalone Salad
- A light lunch option: Enjoy it on its own with some crusty bread.
- Perfect for picnics: Pack it in a container for an easy outdoor meal.
As a Topping
- On grilled meats: Use it as a vibrant topping for grilled chicken or fish.
- In wraps: Add the marinated mix to wraps or sandwiches for extra flavor.
As a Garnish
- For soups: Top creamy soups like gazpacho with a spoonful of this salad.
- On tacos: Use it as a fresh garnish on tacos for added crunch and zest.
How to Perfect Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
To ensure your marinated cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Choose fresh ingredients: Use ripe tomatoes and firm cucumbers for the best flavor and texture.
- Marinate longer: Allow the salad to sit in the fridge for several hours or overnight for deeper flavor absorption.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and add more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.
- Experiment with herbs: Try using basil or mint instead of parsley or dill for a unique twist.
- Serve chilled: This salad is best enjoyed cold, so keep it in the refrigerator until serving.
- Add crunch: Toss in some bell peppers or radishes for an extra crunch.
Best Side Dishes for Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
Pairing this salad with other dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic side options that complement its flavors.
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy chicken breasts seasoned simply with salt and pepper make a great match.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing adds protein and texture to your meal.
- Pasta Primavera: Colorful pasta tossed with seasonal vegetables balances well with the tangy salad.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes provide a hearty contrast to the freshness of the cucumbers and tomatoes.
- Hummus and Pita Chips: Creamy hummus served with crunchy pita chips makes for an excellent appetizer before enjoying the main course.
- Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice and ground meat offer a satisfying companion to this refreshing dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for.
- Using dull knives: A dull knife makes slicing difficult and can lead to uneven cuts. Always use a sharp knife to ensure clean slices.
- Skipping the marinating time: Some people don’t allow enough time for the ingredients to soak up the marinade. For best flavor, let it sit for at least 30 minutes or longer if you can.
- Over-seasoning: It’s tempting to add too much salt or vinegar. Start with small amounts and adjust according to your taste preferences.
- Not mixing well: If you don’t toss the vegetables in the marinade thoroughly, some may be under-seasoned. Ensure even coverage for maximum flavor.
- Ignoring freshness: Using wilted or overripe vegetables can ruin the dish. Always select fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions for the best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- The flavors will intensify as it sits.
Freezing Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
- Not recommended for freezing; the texture of cucumbers and tomatoes will become mushy.
- Best enjoyed fresh for optimal flavor and crunch.
Reheating Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
- Oven: Not necessary; serve cold as intended.
- Microwave: Avoid; will affect texture and taste.
- Stovetop: Not recommended; best served chilled.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes.
Can I customize the marinade for Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes?
Yes! You can add different herbs like basil or swap vinegar types based on your preference.
How long do Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes last?
They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Are there any variations on Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes?
Absolutely! You can include bell peppers or switch up the herbs based on what you have available.
What should I serve with Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes?
This refreshing dish pairs well with grilled meats or as part of a summer picnic spread.
Final Thoughts
Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes is not only refreshing but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize this recipe with your favorite herbs or additional vegetables. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or as a light side dish any day of the week!
Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes is a refreshing and vibrant salad that brings together crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and zesty onions. Tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, this dish is perfect for summer gatherings or as a light snack. Not only is it easy to prepare with just a handful of fresh ingredients, but it also offers versatility in serving options—whether enjoyed on its own, as a topping for grilled meats, or added to wraps. This healthy salad can be made ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for meal prep. Experience a burst of flavor with each bite!
Ingredients
- 2 cucumbers
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 1 small onion
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 clove garlic
- Fresh herbs (parsley or dill)
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers, halve the cherry tomatoes, and slice the onion.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced vegetables and pour the marinade over them.
- Gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving; overnight is best for enhanced flavor.
- Serve chilled and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Salad
- Method: No cooking involved
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 65
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
