Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad

The cucumber, tomato and marinated onion salad is a classic summer summer accompaniment dish, refreshing and full of tangy flavor. It is the ideal addition to barbecues, picnics or simple dinners during the week. This dish is made with fresh cucumbers, juicy tomatoes and pointed onions, all soaked in a well -balanced marinade that improves their natural flavors. With just a handful of ingredients and a minimal preparation time, you will have a delicious and healthy salad that improves more it is long.

Why are you going to love this salad

This salad is a must in southern cuisine and the countryside, but it is appreciated worldwide for its simplicity and daring flavors. The marinade based on vinegar adds a shiny and stung punch, while a touch of sugar balances acidity. It is light, moisturizing and filled with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a healthy but tasty dish.

• Fast and easy – Made with simple ingredients in less than 15 minutes.
• Friendly makeup – Taste even better after marination for a few hours.
• Versatile – Works like an accompaniment dish, a garnish or even a light lunch.
• Low calorie and healthy – Full of fresh vegetables, antioxidants and hydration.

Ingredients

• 2 large cucumbers, in fine slices
• 3 medium tomatoes, cut into thick quarters or slices
• 1 medium red onion, in thin slices
• 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
• 1/4 cup of olive oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 tablespoon of sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano or Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a slight kick)
• 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley or basil for the garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Wash and cut the cucumbers into thin balls. Cut the tomatoes into quarters or thick slices, depending on your preferences. Slice the red onion finely for a softer taste. Place everything in a large bowl to mix.
2. Marinade: In a small separate bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, oregano and red pepper until the sugar dissolves and everything is well combined.
3. Mix and marinate: Pour the marinade on the mixture of cucumber, tomato and onion. Throw everything together until it is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic film and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to blend. For better taste, marinate for 4 hours or overnight.
4. Serve and enjoy: Before serving, give the salad another good draw and garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Serve refrigerated as a refreshing accompaniment dish for toasted meats, sandwiches or even next to a bowl of soup.

Kitchen notes and advice

• Best cucumbers to use: English cucumbers work better because they have thinner skin and fewer seeds, which makes them more crisp. If you use ordinary cucumbers, consider peeling them and collecting certain seeds to avoid excess humidity.
• Softer flavor: If you prefer a softer vinaigrette, slightly increase the sugar or sprinkle in a little honey.
• More acidity: If you enjoy a clearer flavor, increase the vinegar by an additional tablespoon.
• Storage: This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days. The longer it is, the more tasty it becomes.

Variations

This salad is very adaptable and you can easily add more ingredients to improve the flavor profile:

• Mediterranean twist: Add the crumbled feta cheese, black olives and fresh oregano for a version of Greek inspiration.
• Creamy version: Incorporate a few tablespoons of over -the -core or Greek yogurt before serving for a creamy and tart touch.
• Protein -rich option: Mix chickpeas or diced grilled chicken to transform it into a light meal.
• Spicy variation: Add the diced jalapeños or a pinch of spicy sauce to bring heat.
• Lemon herbs clothing: Replace the vinegar with fresh lemon juice and add a pinch of fresh dill for a spicy and herbaceous flavor.

Keto and carbohydrate version

This salad is already an excellent choice for those who have a low carbohydrate or keto diet, but to make it even more user -friendly: keto:

• Exchange without sugar: Use a friendly sweetener like monk fruit or erythritol instead of sugar.
• Healthy fats: Exchange vegetable oil for avocado oil or extra virgin olive oil for additional health benefits.
• Increase the fat content: Add the crumbled feta or the avocado cut for a more satiant dish.

What to serve with the cucumber, tomato and marinated onion salad

This salad goes perfectly with a variety of dishes:

• Grilled meats: Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak or fish for refreshing contrast.
• Barbecue favorites: Complete the smoked ribs, the effiloche pork or the chest.
• Sandwiches and burgers: Works like a fresh garnish or an accompaniment dish for burgers, submarines or wraps.
• Mediterranean meals: Go well with houmous, pita bread or kebabs.
• Light lunch option: Serve on a bed of green vegetables mixed with one side of crisp bread.

Faq

Can I do this salad in advance?
Yes! In fact, he has an even better taste after marinating for a few hours or overnight. The vegetables absorb the vinaigrette, which makes flavors more intense.

What type of vinegar works best?
Apple cider vinegar adds light softness, while white vinegar gives a clearer taste. Red wine vinegar can also be used for a Mediterranean inspiration flavor.

Can I use cherry or grape tomatoes?
Absolutely! The cherry or grape tomatoes divided into two work as well and add an explosion of sweetness.

How to reduce the strong flavor of the onion?
If the raw onions are too strong to your taste, soak them in cold water for 10 to 15 minutes before adding them to the salad. This helps soften their sharpness.

How long does this salad last?
It remains fresh up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Give him a good throw before serving to redistribute the marinade.