Description
The Crisp Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Delight is a fresh and vibrant salad perfect for any season but particularly delightful during the warmer months. With a harmonious blend of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and sharp red onion dressed in a light vinaigrette, this salad brings a burst of color and flavor to your dining table. Perfect as a side dish, it complements grilled meats, seafood, or a vegetarian meal excellently.
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 3 medium tomatoes, cut into wedges or thick slices
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-step Directions
1. Prepare the Vegetables
Combine the sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions in a large bowl. Ensure that the vegetables are well cleaned and sliced uniformly for the best texture and presentation.
2. Make the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, sugar (if using), salt, black pepper, and oregano. Make sure to mix thoroughly until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved.
3. Toss the Salad
Pour the marinade over the vegetables in the large bowl. Toss everything well to ensure all the slices are evenly coated with the marinade, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
4. Marinate
Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate. Allow the salad to marinate for at least 1 hour, though leaving it overnight will enhance the flavors even more.
5. Garnish and Serve
Before serving, toss the salad again to redistribute the marinade. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for an extra pop of color and freshness.
Servings & Preparation Time
This recipe serves approximately 4 to 6 people as a side dish. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, plus at least 1 hour to marinate.
Tips for Storage
- Refrigeration: Keep the salad refrigerated in a covered container. It is best enjoyed within 24-48 hours.
- Serving Suggestions: If serving after storage, give the salad a good toss to redistribute the marinade and flavors. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs to refresh the flavor before serving.
Conclusion
The Crisp Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Delight is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in cooking. Combining basic ingredients with a flavorful marinade results in a salad that’s both refreshing and satisfying. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with numerous main courses and is perfect for making ahead, making it a favorite for meal planners and busy home cooks alike. Enjoy this delightful recipe during any gathering or as a healthy addition to your weekly meal routine.
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Crisp Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Delight
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1x
Description
The Crisp Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Delight is a fresh and vibrant salad perfect for any season but particularly delightful during the warmer months. With a harmonious blend of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and sharp red onion dressed in a light vinaigrette, this salad brings a burst of color and flavor to your dining table. Perfect as a side dish, it complements grilled meats, seafood, or a vegetarian meal excellently.
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 3 medium tomatoes, cut into wedges or thick slices
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables Combine the sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions in a large bowl. Ensure that the vegetables are well cleaned and sliced uniformly for the best texture and presentation.
- Make the Marinade In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, sugar (if using), salt, black pepper, and oregano. Make sure to mix thoroughly until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved.
- Toss the Salad Pour the marinade over the vegetables in the large bowl. Toss everything well to ensure all the slices are evenly coated with the marinade, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Marinate Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate. Allow the salad to marinate for at least 1 hour, though leaving it overnight will enhance the flavors even more.
- Garnish and Serve Before serving, toss the salad again to redistribute the marinade. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for an extra pop of color and freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes