Here’s the complete recipe profile for your Marinated Cucumber, Tomato & Onion Salad, with all the requested sections and the wide line removed:
Introduction
This Marinated Cucumber, Tomato & Onion Salad is a refreshing, tangy, and crunchy side dish that’s perfect for warm weather or whenever you want a light, zesty addition to your meal. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and uses everyday ingredients that deliver bold flavor with minimal effort.
Origin and Cultural Significance
This type of marinated salad is a staple across many Southern and Midwestern U.S. households. Often passed down through generations, it blends garden-fresh vegetables with a sweet and tangy vinegar-based dressing. Popular in potlucks, Sunday dinners, and summer barbecues, it reflects a simple, frugal, and flavor-packed approach to seasonal eating and preserving produce.
Ingredients Quantity
- 2 cucumbers, sliced
- 2 tomatoes, cut into wedges
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup vinegar (white or apple cider)
- ¼ cup water
- 2 tbsp sugar
- Salt & black pepper to taste
Optional Additions
- Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or basil
- A pinch of red pepper flakes for mild heat
- Thinly sliced bell peppers for added crunch
- A drizzle of olive oil for richness
- Crumbled feta cheese for a creamy twist
Tips for Success
- Use firm cucumbers and ripe tomatoes for the best texture and flavor.
- Let the salad marinate for at least one hour, but preferably longer, to deepen the flavor.
- Slice the onions thinly so they mellow in the vinegar mixture.
- Adjust sugar and vinegar to your taste—more sugar for sweetness, more vinegar for tang.
- Chill well before serving to enhance the crispness and refreshment.
Instructions
- Combine the sliced cucumbers, tomato wedges, and onion slices in a large bowl.
- In a separate cup, whisk together vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and pepper until sugar is dissolved.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Stir again before plating.
Description
Cool, crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes soak up a sweet-tangy vinaigrette alongside mellow onions. The result is a crunchy, hydrating salad with just the right amount of acidity to cut through rich main dishes or stand proudly on its own as a refreshing bite on a hot day.
Nutritional Information (Estimated per serving, makes 4 servings)
- Calories: 45
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Sugars: 6g
- Fat: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Conclusion
Simple, vibrant, and incredibly refreshing, this Marinated Cucumber, Tomato & Onion Salad proves that a few fresh ingredients can go a long way. It’s perfect as a side for grilled meats, sandwiches, or just as a quick midday snack. You’ll find yourself making it again and again.
Recommendation
Pair this salad with BBQ chicken, grilled steak, or even burgers. It’s also a great palate cleanser alongside spicy or heavier meals. Make a big batch—it keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days and gets better as it marinates.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This salad is naturally low in calories, fat-free, and packed with hydrating vegetables and antioxidants. For a lower-sugar version, reduce or substitute the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or stevia. Adding fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil can boost flavor and nutrition while keeping it heart-healthy and satisfying.
Let me know if you’d like a version with measurement conversions or meal pairing suggestions!