Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad

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Description:

A refreshing and tangy Southern-style salad made with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and sharp onions, marinated in a sweet and tangy vinegar dressing. Perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or as a light side dish.

Origin:

This dish has its roots in Southern American cuisine, where marinated salads are a traditional staple, especially during the hot summer months. It’s simple, made with garden-fresh ingredients, and relies on a vinegar-based marinade for flavor rather than heavy dressings.

Ingredients Quantity (Serves 4–6):

  • 2 cups cucumbers, thinly sliced (about 2 medium cucumbers)
  • 1½ cups tomatoes, chopped or cut into wedges (about 2 medium tomatoes)
  • 1 cup red or yellow onion, thinly sliced (about 1 medium onion)
  • ½ cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • ¼ cup water
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Optional Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill or parsley, chopped (for herbaceous flavor)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for brightness)
  • Feta cheese or mozzarella balls (for Mediterranean variation)

Instructions:

  1. Prep the vegetables:
    Wash and slice cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions. Place them in a large bowl.
  2. Make the marinade:
    In a separate bowl or jar, whisk together vinegar, water, olive oil, sugar, salt, and pepper until the sugar dissolves. Add any optional herbs or spices you like.
  3. Combine & Marinate:
    Pour the marinade over the vegetables and toss well to coat evenly.
  4. Refrigerate:
    Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (preferably 2–3 hours) to allow flavors to meld.
  5. Serve:
    Toss again before serving chilled. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Tips for Success:

  • Use fresh, firm vegetables to avoid sogginess after marination.
  • Slice uniformly so that all pieces marinate evenly.
  • Chill for a few hours – marination time enhances flavor significantly.
  • Use a non-reactive bowl (glass or ceramic) to avoid metallic taste from the vinegar.

Recommendations:

  • Serve alongside grilled meats, burgers, or BBQ dishes.
  • Ideal for meal prep – lasts up to 3 days refrigerated.
  • Add chickpeas or white beans for protein and heartiness.

Nutrition (Approximate per serving – based on 6 servings):

  • Calories: 70 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Fat: 4g
  • Fiber: 1.5g
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Vitamin C: ~20% DV
  • Vitamin A: ~15% DV

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