Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes

Servings:

Makes about 8–10 generous servings

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Marinate Time: 2–6 hours (best overnight)

Ingredients:

For the Vegetables:

• 4 large cucumbers, peeled and sliced into thin rounds
• 4 large tomatoes, cut into wedges (or use cherry tomatoes, halved)
• 2 medium red onions, thinly sliced into rings
• 1 large green bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional but adds crunch and color)
• ½ cup fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional but adds freshness)

For the Marinade:

• 1 cup apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar for stronger flavor)
• ½ cup water
• ⅓ cup olive oil (or vegetable oil for lighter taste)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste — less for tangier flavor)
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 minced fresh garlic cloves)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a mild kick)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Wash and peel the cucumbers. Slice them thinly into even rounds.
2. Slice onions into rings and separate them.
3. Cut tomatoes into wedges (or halve cherry tomatoes).
4. Add all vegetables to a large mixing bowl (or a glass container with a lid).

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Step 2: Make the Marinade

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together:

• Vinegar
• Water
• Oil
• Sugar
• Salt
• Pepper
• Garlic powder
• Oregano
• Red pepper flakes

1. Whisk well until the sugar and salt dissolve completely.

Step 3: Combine and Chill

1. Pour the marinade over the vegetables.
2. Toss everything gently to coat evenly.
3. Cover the bowl (or seal your container) and refrigerate for at least 2 hours — ideally overnight for deeper flavor.

Step 4: Serve

• Before serving, give the salad a quick toss.
• Taste and adjust seasoning (add salt, pepper, or sugar if needed).
• Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish with grilled meats, fish, or sandwiches.

Tips & Variations:

• Add herbs: Fresh basil, cilantro, or mint make it more aromatic.
• Add a touch of sweetness: A drizzle of honey balances acidity.
• For a creamy twist: Mix in a few spoonfuls of Greek yogurt or sour cream right before serving.
• Make-ahead: The flavor improves after sitting in the fridge for a few hours.

Health Benefits:

• Cucumbers: Hydrating, low in calories, rich in antioxidants.
• Tomatoes: Packed with lycopene, vitamin C, and heart-protective nutrients.
• Onions: Contain quercetin, which supports immune health.
• Olive oil & vinegar: Support digestion and cardiovascular health.

Conclusion:

This Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes Salad is the ultimate summer classic — crisp, tangy, and refreshing! It’s easy to prepare, keeps well in the fridge for several days, and brings color and brightness to any meal. Serve it at cookouts, family dinners, or picnics — it’s always a hit.