Marinated Cucumber Onion Tomato Salad is like a refreshing vacation for your taste buds. Imagine crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and zesty onions mingling together in a tangy marinade that dances on your palate. For more inspiration, check out this lunch recipes recipe.
This salad is perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or any occasion where you want to impress without breaking a sweat. Trust me; once you serve this vibrant dish, you’ll be the star of every gathering.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Marinated Cucumber Onion Tomato Salad is a breeze to prepare, requiring minimal chopping and mixing
- Its fresh flavors will elevate any meal while looking stunning on your plate
- The versatility allows it to be served as a side dish or light main course
- Plus, it’s great for meal prep, often tasting even better the next day!
I remember the first time I made this salad for my family. Everyone’s eyes lit up as they took their first bites—those fresh flavors were a hit!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Cucumbers: Opt for firm cucumbers like English or Persian for the best crunch.
Cherry Tomatoes: Choose ripe cherry tomatoes; their sweetness adds delightful bursts of flavor.
Red Onion: A small red onion gives a mild kick without overpowering the other ingredients.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds brightness and color—use flat-leaf for stronger flavor.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances richness; don’t skimp on quality here.
Balsamic Vinegar: Use a good quality balsamic vinegar for a sweet-tart balance that elevates the salad.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all flavors—freshly ground pepper works best.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Marinated Cucumber Onion Tomato Salad
Prepare Your Veggies: Start by washing all your fresh vegetables under cool water. Slice cucumbers into thin rounds, chop cherry tomatoes in half, and finely slice red onion. The colors should make you smile!
Create the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar until emulsified. Add salt and pepper to taste—the aroma will already make you eager to dig in.
Toss It All Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and parsley. Pour the marinade over the top and gently toss everything together with care.
Let It Chill Out: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This time allows all those amazing flavors to mingle beautifully.
Serve with Flair!: When you’re ready to serve, give it another gentle toss. Present your Marinated Cucumber Onion Tomato Salad in an attractive bowl—your guests will be impressed!
Enjoying this Marinated Cucumber Onion Tomato Salad is not just about eating; it’s about celebrating freshness and creating memorable moments around the table!
You Must Know
- Marinated cucumber onion tomato salad is not just refreshing; it’s a perfect side for any meal
- The crunch of the cucumbers mixed with juicy tomatoes creates a symphony of textures
- Plus, it’s quick to prepare and can be made ahead, letting flavors deepen overnight
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To make marinated cucumber onion tomato salad efficiently, chop your vegetables first, then whisk the dressing while the veggies release their juices.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add herbs like dill or parsley for an extra flavor boost. You could also swap red onions for green ones if you prefer a milder taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store marinated cucumber onion tomato salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days without losing its crunch.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor, allow the salad to marinate for at least 30 minutes
- Thinly slicing onions helps mellow their sharpness
- Use ripe tomatoes for maximum juiciness and flavor in your salad
The first time I made this salad, my friend declared it “the best thing since sliced bread,” which made me giggle and swell with pride.
FAQ
Can I use other vegetables in marinated cucumber onion tomato salad?
Absolutely! Bell peppers or radishes can add color and crunch to your salad.
How long can I store marinated cucumber onion tomato salad?
This salad can be stored for up to three days in an airtight container in the fridge.
What type of vinegar should I use in the dressing?
Apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar works beautifully for a tangy kick!
Marinated Cucumber Onion Tomato Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Marinated Cucumber Onion Tomato Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish that combines crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and zesty red onions in a tangy marinade. Ideal for summer gatherings, this salad is easy to prepare and tastes even better after a day in the fridge. Whether served as a side at barbecues or as a light main course, it’s sure to impress your guests with its burst of fresh flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small red onion, finely sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and prepare all the vegetables: slice cucumbers, halve cherry tomatoes, and finely slice red onion.
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and parsley. Pour the marinade over the veggies and gently toss.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve in an attractive bowl and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
