🥒🍅🧅 Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
📜 Description:
This refreshing Southern-style salad is a perfect side dish, especially in warmer months. Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and zesty onions are marinated in a sweet-tangy dressing that enhances their natural flavors. The addition of mint gives it a bright, herbal note. Great for barbecues, potlucks, or a light weekday side!
🧂 Ingredients:
- 3 medium cucumbers, peeled and sliced ¼ inch thick
- 1 medium onion, sliced and separated into rings
- 3 medium tomatoes, cut into wedges
- ½ cup vinegar (white or apple cider vinegar)
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon fresh coarse ground black pepper
- ¼ cup oil (vegetable, olive, or avocado oil)
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh mint (optional)
🍽️ Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
Place sliced cucumbers, onion rings, and tomato wedges in a large bowl. - Make the Marinade:
In a separate bowl, whisk together vinegar, sugar, water, salt, pepper, and oil until the sugar dissolves. - Combine:
Pour the marinade over the vegetables. Add chopped mint if using. - Marinate:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, stirring occasionally for even flavor. - Serve:
Stir before serving. Serve chilled as a side dish or light salad.
📝 Notes:
- Tomatoes may break down if marinated too long. If making in advance, add them closer to serving time for firmer texture.
- Use red onions for a slightly sweeter flavor and added color.
- You can adjust the sugar and vinegar ratio to make it more tart or more sweet depending on your taste.
👨👩👧👦 Servings:
- Makes 6 side servings
🍴 Tips:
- Crispier cucumbers: Use English or Persian cucumbers, and avoid over-marinating.
- Make ahead: Best served the day after making, once flavors have melded.
- Presentation tip: Serve in a clear glass bowl to show off the vibrant colors.
- Add-ins: Try bell peppers, radishes, or feta cheese for variety.
🥗 Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 90 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Sugars: 7g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
💪 Health Benefits:
- Cucumbers hydrate the body and provide antioxidants.
- Tomatoes are rich in vitamins A & C and lycopene, a potent antioxidant.
- Onions contain compounds that support heart health and immunity.
- Mint aids in digestion and adds a refreshing quality.
❓ Q&A:
Q: Can I use cherry or grape tomatoes?
A: Yes! Halve them for bite-size pieces and better texture during marinating.
Q: How long does it keep?
A: Up to 3–4 days in the fridge, though cucumbers will soften over time.
Q: What type of vinegar is best?
A: White vinegar gives a clean, sharp taste. Apple cider vinegar adds sweetness and depth.
Q: Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?
A: Yes, it’s naturally both vegan and gluten-free.
Q: Can I reduce the sugar?
A: Absolutely. Use 1–2 tablespoons for a tangier, less sweet profile—or substitute with honey or a sugar alternative.