Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad

There’s so much to adore about Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

1. Light and Refreshing : The crisp vegetables and tangy marinade make it perfect for warm weather or as a palate cleanser.
2. Quick and Easy : Ready in under 15 minutes—no cooking required!
3. Customizable : Adjust the flavors or add-ins to suit your taste.
4. Healthy and Nutritious : Packed with hydrating cucumbers, antioxidant-rich tomatoes, and metabolism-boosting onions.
5. Make-Ahead Friendly : The flavors deepen over time, making it ideal for meal prep or entertaining.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The secret to this salad lies in its simple yet flavorful combination of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Salad:

• 2 medium cucumbers (sliced thinly or diced)
• 2 medium tomatoes (chopped into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 small red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley or dill (chopped, for freshness)

For the Marinade:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar for a milder flavor)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for balance)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra depth)
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (for creaminess)
• 1/4 cup chopped kalamata olives (for a Mediterranean twist)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for heat)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to whip up this crisp, refreshing delight? Follow these easy steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Wash and dry the cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion.
2. Slice the cucumbers thinly or dice them, depending on your preference.
3. Chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces and thinly slice the red onion.
4. Place the prepared vegetables in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, sugar (if using), Dijon mustard (if using), minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Taste the marinade and adjust the seasoning as needed—you can add more vinegar for tanginess or sugar for sweetness.

Step 3: Combine and Marinate

1. Pour the marinade over the vegetables in the mixing bowl. Toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
2. If using optional add-ins like feta cheese or olives, stir them in at this stage.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. For best results, marinate for 1–2 hours or overnight.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Give the salad a quick toss before serving to redistribute the marinade.
2. Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.
3. Serve chilled and enjoy the crisp, tangy goodness!

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Why This Recipe Works So Well

The magic of Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad lies in its simplicity and balance of flavors. The crisp cucumbers provide a refreshing crunch, while the juicy tomatoes add bursts of sweetness. The sharpness of the red onion is tempered by the tangy marinade, which ties everything together beautifully. As the salad marinates, the vegetables absorb the dressing, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Together, these elements create a dish that’s as satisfying as it is versatile—a true crowd-pleaser.