This Marinated Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad is a refreshing and tangy dish that’s perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or as a side to any meal. The crisp vegetables combined with the tangy vinaigrette make for a simple yet flavorful salad that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 3 tomatoes: Sliced into wedges or rounds, these provide a juicy and vibrant base for the salad.
- 3 cucumbers: Peeled and sliced into rounds or half-moons, adding a cool crunch to the mix.
- 1 onion: Thinly sliced, the onion adds a bit of sharpness to balance the flavors.
- ½ cup vinegar: Acts as the main acidic component, giving the salad its tangy bite.
- 1 teaspoon cracked pepper: Adds a touch of spice and depth to the marinade.
- 2 tablespoons sugar: Balances the acidity of the vinegar with a hint of sweetness.
- 2 teaspoons salt: Enhances the flavors and helps the vegetables release their juices.
- 1 cup water: Dilutes the vinegar slightly, creating a more balanced marinade.
- ¼ cup olive oil: Adds richness and helps to meld the flavors together.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Slice Tomatoes:
- Begin by washing the tomatoes thoroughly. Slice them into wedges or thick rounds, depending on your preference. Place the sliced tomatoes in a large mixing bowl.
- Slice Cucumbers:
- Peel the cucumbers if desired, then slice them into rounds or half-moons. Add the cucumber slices to the bowl with the tomatoes.
- Slice Onion:
- Peel the onion and slice it thinly into rings or half-rings. Add the onion slices to the bowl with the other vegetables.
2. Make the Marinade:
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the vinegar, cracked pepper, sugar, salt, water, and olive oil until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved.
- Mix Well:
- Continue to whisk the marinade until it’s well combined. The mixture should be slightly thickened and emulsified.
3. Marinate the Vegetables:
- Pour Marinade:
- Pour the prepared marinade over the sliced vegetables in the mixing bowl. Gently toss the vegetables to ensure they are evenly coated with the marinade.
- Chill:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours. This allows the vegetables to absorb the flavors of the marinade.
4. Serve:
- Toss Before Serving:
- Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss to redistribute the marinade. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
- Plate and Enjoy:
- Serve the salad chilled, either as a side dish or a light main course. It’s perfect for warm days or as a refreshing complement to grilled meats.
Tips for Success:
- Chilling Time: For best results, marinate the salad for at least 2 hours, but it can be made a day ahead. The flavors will intensify as it sits.
- Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or radishes for added color and crunch.
- Vinegar Choices: While white vinegar works well, you can experiment with apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar for different flavor profiles.
- Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet salad, reduce the sugar by half or omit it entirely.
FAQs:
- Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of regular tomatoes? Yes, cherry tomatoes work well in this recipe. Simply halve them and proceed with the rest of the steps.
- How long can I store this salad? The salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The vegetables will soften over time but will remain flavorful.
- Can I make this salad in advance? Absolutely! This salad is actually better when made a few hours ahead of time to allow the flavors to meld together.
- What can I serve with this salad? This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or any type of barbecue. It’s also great alongside sandwiches or as part of a picnic spread.
This Marinated Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad is a versatile and easy-to-make dish that brings fresh, vibrant flavors to your table. Whether you’re serving it as a side at a family gathering or enjoying it as a light lunch, this salad is sure to be a hit. The combination of crisp vegetables and tangy marinade makes for a refreshing and satisfying dish that you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy this simple yet delicious recipe!
