Introduction
Marinated cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes is a fresh and tangy salad that’s light, crisp, and perfect for hot summer days. The vegetables are soaked in a simple vinaigrette that highlights their natural flavors, making this dish both refreshing and flavorful. It’s a great side dish to serve with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a light, healthy snack.
Origin and Cultural Significance
This salad is commonly found in Southern American cuisine, where fresh garden vegetables are plentiful in the summer. It’s a staple at barbecues, picnics, and potlucks, offering a cool, crisp contrast to heavier dishes. The recipe’s simplicity and reliance on seasonal ingredients make it adaptable to various cultures and regions, with many variations existing around the world.
Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 large tomato, chopped into wedges
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar (or honey for a natural alternative)
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill (optional, for garnish)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Optional Additions
- Bell Peppers: Add thinly sliced red, yellow, or green bell peppers for extra crunch and color.
- Feta Cheese: Crumble feta on top for a tangy, salty flavor.
- Herbs: Add fresh basil, parsley, or mint for a burst of freshness.
Tips for Success
- Let It Marinate: For the best flavor, allow the vegetables to marinate in the dressing for at least 30 minutes to an hour. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Use Firm Vegetables: Choose firm cucumbers and tomatoes to prevent the salad from becoming too soggy.
- Adjust the Sweetness: The sweetness of the dressing can be adjusted to your preference. If you like it more tart, reduce the sugar or honey slightly.
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Slice the cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes, and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Make the Marinade:
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, pepper, garlic powder (if using), and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
- Marinate the Vegetables:
- Pour the marinade over the vegetables and toss everything together until evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve:
- After marinating, toss the vegetables again and garnish with fresh dill or other herbs, if desired. Serve chilled as a side dish or light salad.
Description
This marinated cucumber, onion, and tomato salad is crisp, refreshing, and full of bright flavors. The cucumbers are cool and crunchy, the onions add a sharp bite, and the tomatoes bring a juicy sweetness to the dish. The tangy vinegar dressing ties everything together, creating a salad that is simple yet satisfying. It’s perfect for warm days when you want something light and flavorful.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~100 kcal
- Protein: ~1g
- Fat: ~7g
- Carbohydrates: ~10g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Sugar: ~4g
- Sodium: ~200mg
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This salad is naturally low in calories and packed with hydrating vegetables, making it a great addition to any meal when you want to indulge in something fresh and healthy. You can reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute to make it even lighter, or add nutrient-dense toppings like seeds or nuts for added texture and nutrition. The simplicity of this dish allows it to be enjoyed often, while also being a canvas for endless healthy variations.