Marinated cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes make a refreshing and tangy salad that’s perfect for hot summer days. This easy-to-make salad combines crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and sharp onions in a flavorful marinade, creating a delightful side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Follow these steps to create a delicious marinated salad that will be a hit at your next gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup distilled white vinegar
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, or adjust according to your taste preferences
- 3 cucumbers, peeled and sliced 1/4-inch thick
- 3 tomatoes, cut into wedges
- 1 onion, sliced and separated into rings
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Peel the cucumbers and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
- Cut the tomatoes into wedges.
- Slice the onion and separate it into rings.
- Make the Marinade:
- In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of water, ½ cup of distilled white vinegar, ¼ cup of vegetable oil, and ¼ cup of sugar. Stir the mixture thoroughly until the sugar has completely dissolved, ensuring a smooth and well-integrated consistency.
- Add 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper to the marinade. Stir to combine.
- Combine the Vegetables and Marinade:
- Add the sliced cucumbers, tomato wedges, and onion rings to the bowl with the marinade. Toss gently to ensure all the vegetables are evenly coated with the marinade.
- Marinate the Salad:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together. For best results, marinate the salad overnight.
- Serve:
- Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss to redistribute the marinade. Carefully transfer the marinated cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes into a serving dish, arranging them in an appealing manner. This will ensure that all the flavors are evenly distributed and the presentation is visually inviting.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish.
Conclusion
This marinated cucumber, onion, and tomato salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for summer meals. The tangy marinade enhances the natural flavors of the fresh vegetables, creating a light and refreshing salad that’s sure to please. Enjoy this delicious and easy-to-make salad at your next barbecue, picnic, or family dinner. Bon appétit!