Marinated Cucumbers Onions Tomatoes

This marinated cucumbers onions and tomatoes salad has become my go to for summer picnics and potlucks It comes together quickly and always disappears fast thanks to its crisp texture and punchy marinade You get sweet tomatoes crunchy cucumbers and just enough bite from the onions all soaking up a bright and tangy dressing

My family never seems to tire of this salad I tossed it together one muggy July afternoon and it was gone before the grilled corn even hit the table It is as popular with the kids as it is with the grownups

Ingredients

• Cucumbers: Look for firm evenly colored cucumbers without soft spots Slicing them thin helps soak up the marinade
• Cherry or grape tomatoes: Go for brightly colored smooth skinned ones for best flavor They hold their shape in the salad
• Red or white onion: Choose a small firm onion and slice it as thin as possible to mellow its sharpness
• Apple cider or red wine vinegar: Each brings a slightly different tang so pick your favorite Try to get vinegar without additives for best taste
• Extra virgin olive oil: A good olive oil adds a fruity richness and helps everything come together
• Garlic: Adds aromatic depth Fresh cloves are worth the bit of extra effort for a bold punch
• Fresh parsley or dill: Adds a pop of green and a fresh herbal brightness Always use freshly chopped for more flavor
• Salt and pepper: Brings everything to life Aim for kosher or sea salt and freshly cracked pepper if you can
• Red pepper flakes (optional): Gives a subtle kick without overpowering the veggies Choose fresher flakes for more zip

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Vegetables:

Wash and trim cucumbers Tomatoes get halved for juiciness Onions sliced as thin as possible so they vanish into the marinade and do not overpower

Mix the Marinade:

Use a whisk to combine vinegar olive oil garlic salt and pepper in your mixing bowl If you want heat this is when to add red pepper flakes Whisk until the oil blends and the garlic loses its raw edge

Combine and Toss:

Pile your veggies into a large bowl and drizzle on the marinade Gently toss so every slice is coated The oil should cling nicely to each vegetable

Marinate:

Cover the bowl and let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least a half hour If you can leave it for several hours or even overnight the flavors will be more pronounced

Serve and Garnish:

Toss once more before bringing to the table Sprinkle with extra parsley or dill for a fresh finish and a dash more pepper if you like

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Every time I make this salad fresh dill takes it to another level Its aroma brings me right back to my grandmothers kitchen where she would snip herbs straight from the windowsill My kids even fight over who gets the last cucumber slice

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in a sealed glass container in the fridge for up to three days The veggies will keep a nice crunch on day one but will soften as they marinate longer For freshest results drain off a bit of liquid before serving leftovers

Ingredient Substitutions

English cucumbers work well and do not need peeling or seeding Out of fresh herbs try a sprinkle of dried Italian seasoning For a mellow flavor use a sweet onion Swap apple cider vinegar for white wine vinegar if you need

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled right from the fridge on a hot day For a more filling meal toss in cooked chickpeas or some crumbled feta This salad shines beside grilled fish roast chicken or tucked in a pita

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Little History in Every Bite

Marinated cucumber salads are common from the American South to Central Europe My recipe borrows from the way my great aunt used to let veggies bathe in vinaigrette for hours so every bite bursts with garden freshness

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How long should the vegetables be marinated?

For best flavor, allow the cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes to marinate for at least 30 minutes, though a few hours or overnight will yield more depth.

→ Can I use a different vinegar?

Yes, either apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar works well, giving slightly different taste profiles. White wine vinegar may also be a mild substitute.

→ Is it necessary to peel the cucumbers?

Peeling is optional. Leaving the skin on adds color and texture, but you can peel if preferred for tenderness or if using waxed cucumbers.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers or radishes make excellent additions for extra crunch and color in this marinated salad.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and consume within 2-3 days for best texture and flavor.

→ What herbs pair best with this dish?

Fresh parsley or dill are excellent choices; basil or chives also add a delicious herbal note.