Marinated Cucumber, Tomato & Onion Salad

Introduction

Refreshing, tangy, and crisp, the Marinated Cucumber, Tomato & Onion Salad is a timeless side dish that has graced summer tables and picnic spreads across generations. It’s simple to make, filled with fresh garden ingredients, and packs a flavor punch that elevates any meal. Whether you’re accompanying grilled meats, barbecued tofu, or just enjoying it as a light snack, this salad is a classic choice that never goes out of style.

Ingredients

• 2 cucumbers, thinly sliced (peeled if preferred)
• 2 ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges or chunks
• 1 small red or white onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup vinegar (white or apple cider)
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onion.
2. In a separate cup or bowl, whisk together the vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and pepper until the sugar dissolves.
3. Pour the vinegar mixture over the vegetables and toss gently to coat evenly.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to marinate.
5. Serve chilled as a side dish or a light, refreshing salad.

Methods

This salad is made using the marinating method. The vegetables absorb the tangy-sweet flavor of the vinegar-based dressing over time. Thin slicing is key, as it helps the marinade penetrate more effectively. Use a mandolin slicer for precision if available.

History

This type of marinated salad has its roots in various cultures, including Southern American cuisine, Mediterranean traditions, and Eastern European kitchens. It’s a staple of home-style cooking, passed down through families and adapted with local ingredients over the decades.

Benefits

• Hydration: Cucumbers and tomatoes are water-rich vegetables, excellent for hydration.
• Antioxidants: Tomatoes provide lycopene, and onions offer quercetin, both powerful antioxidants.
• Low in Calories: A great option for those watching their calorie intake.
• Digestive Aid: Vinegar can help with digestion and blood sugar regulation.

Formation

The salad forms as the vegetables marinate in the vinegar-sugar solution, becoming softer, more flavorful, and slightly pickled. The juices from the tomatoes and onions enhance the overall marinade, deepening the flavor with time.

Conclusion

The Marinated Cucumber, Tomato & Onion Salad is more than just a side dish — it’s a celebration of simplicity and freshness. Easy to make and endlessly adaptable, it’s a must-have recipe for any home cook. It proves that with a few ingredients, you can create a dish full of flavor, color, and nutritional value.

Lovers of This Dish

This salad is beloved by health enthusiasts, home cooks, vegans, vegetarians, and anyone who enjoys fresh, flavorful food. It’s a popular choice for potlucks, family gatherings, barbecues, and summer picnics.

Nutrition (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 50-60
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Sugars: 5g
• Fiber: 1-2g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g

Conclusion

This salad is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a dish that’s both healthful and delicious. Marinated Cucumber, Tomato & Onion Salad brings families together and adds a colorful touch to any table. Try it once, and it may just become a staple in your kitchen too.

Lovers

Lovers of crunchy textures, zesty vinegar-based dressings, and nostalgic, old-fashioned recipes will especially appreciate this dish. It’s a love letter to seasonal produce and simple cooking.