Description

A refreshing and vibrant salad perfect for any occasion, this Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad combines crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy red onions, all tossed together with a light, flavorful vinaigrette. It's an easy-to-make, healthy side dish that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or serves as a light, stand-alone meal. The marinating process allows the vegetables to soak up the dressing, enhancing their natural flavors and making it even more delicious!

Ingredients

• 2 cucumbers, sliced thin
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 4 tomatoes, diced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Preparation Method

Start by washing all the vegetables thoroughly. This ensures that they are free from any dirt or residue.

Prepare the Cucumbers: Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds. You can peel them if you prefer, but leaving the skin on adds extra color and texture. Place the cucumber slices in a large mixing bowl.

Prepare the Red Onion: Cut the red onion in half and slice it into thin half-moons. Add the onion slices to the same bowl with the cucumbers.

Prepare the Tomatoes: Dice the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Make sure to remove any seeds if you prefer a less watery salad. Add them to the bowl with the cucumbers and onions.

Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as necessary. If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add a little more sugar, or for extra tang, increase the lemon juice or vinegar.

Combine the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the vegetables in the large bowl. Toss everything gently to ensure that the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.

Marinate the Salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour. This allows the vegetables to soak in the flavors of the dressing, making the salad even more delicious. For a more intense flavor, you can let it marinate for longer, up to 3 hours.

Serve: Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss to redistribute the dressing. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an added burst of color and freshness.

Tips and Conclusion

Adjusting the flavor: Feel free to customize the vinaigrette by adding herbs like dill or basil for a more aromatic taste, or a little garlic for extra depth.

Serving suggestions: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or even as a side dish for a summer barbecue. It’s also great on its own for a light, healthy lunch or dinner.

For extra crunch: Add some crumbled feta cheese or toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts to give the salad some texture and added richness.

This Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad is the perfect way to enjoy fresh, seasonal produce while keeping things simple and light. The sweet and tangy vinaigrette ties everything together, making each bite delicious and refreshing. Whether you’re having it as a side dish, or enjoying it on its own, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Easy, healthy, and bursting with flavor – what’s not to love?