A Classic Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad is a refreshing and tangy dish that’s perfect as a side or light lunch. The combination of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and zesty onions, all marinated in a flavorful dressing, is simple yet delicious. Here’s a quick and easy recipe for you:
Classic Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced (you can peel them if you prefer, but leaving the skin on adds extra crunch)
- 2-3 medium tomatoes, cut into wedges or chunks
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (or use a yellow onion for a milder flavor)
- 1/4 cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar for a milder taste)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (or fresh, chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs like parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the vegetables:
- Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons if you prefer a larger bite. Slice the tomatoes into wedges or chunks depending on your preference. Thinly slice the onion.
- Place all the vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
- Make the dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, sugar (if using), oregano, salt, and pepper until the sugar is dissolved and everything is well combined.
- Marinate:
- Pour the dressing over the cucumber, tomato, and onion mixture. Toss everything gently to coat the vegetables evenly with the dressing.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. You can also let it marinate for a couple of hours or even overnight for more intense flavor.
- Serve:
- Before serving, give the salad another quick toss. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill if desired.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish.
Tips:
- You can add a bit of feta cheese for a creamy, salty element, or even a handful of olives for extra flavor.
- Red wine vinegar can be substituted for white vinegar for a slightly different taste.
- If you want to add some crunch, sprinkle a handful of toasted seeds (like sunflower or pumpkin seeds) on top just before serving.
- For more complexity, add a clove of minced garlic to the dressing for some extra flavor.
This salad is so versatile and pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a light snack on its own. Would you like to explore any variations on this recipe, or maybe a different dressing?