Introduction
Transform humble cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes into a vibrant, refreshing salad that’s perfect for any occasion! This recipe is super simple, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers maximum flavor. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this crowd-pleasing classic—it’s the perfect side dish for barbecues, picnics, or a light lunch.
Why This Works
This recipe works because it’s all about letting the fresh flavors of the vegetables shine. The simple marinade brings out the sweetness of the tomatoes, the crispness of the cucumbers, and the subtle bite of the onions. It’s quick to make, easily customizable, and always a hit!
Key Ingredients
🥒 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
🧅 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
🍅 4 large ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced
🌿 ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
🍃 ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped
🍋 ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice
🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
🧂 1 teaspoon salt
🌶️ ½ teaspoon black pepper
🥄 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
1️⃣ Prep the Veggies: Thinly slice your cucumbers, red onion, and tomatoes. Aim for even slices for consistent marinating. Chop the parsley and dill. Mince the garlic.
2️⃣ Combine the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3️⃣ Marinate the Salad: Add the sliced cucumbers, red onion, and tomatoes to the bowl with the marinade. Gently toss to ensure all the vegetables are coated.
4️⃣ Add Herbs: Stir in the chopped parsley and dill.
5️⃣ Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. The longer it marinates (up to 2 hours), the tastier it gets! Serve chilled and enjoy!
Handy Tips
- Use a mandoline slicer for perfectly even vegetable slices – this will ensure even marinating and a beautiful presentation.
- If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of dried parsley and ½ teaspoon of dried dill.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference. You might want to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or even a dash of sugar to balance the acidity of the lemon juice.
Heat Control
This recipe doesn’t involve any heat. The magic happens through the combination of fresh ingredients and zesty marinade, allowing the flavors to develop at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
Crunch Factor
The crunch factor comes from the fresh cucumbers and red onion. To maintain the crunch, avoid over-marinating. 30 minutes is ideal, but 2 hours is the maximum recommended marinating time.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For a bolder flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- A squeeze of fresh lime juice alongside the lemon juice adds another layer of citrusy brightness.
- To make it ahead, prepare the salad up to a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Storage Tips
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, but the salad will be best if eaten within 2 days.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This salad makes a delightful and refreshing gift! Pack it in a pretty glass bowl or mason jar, tied with a ribbon. Include a small card with the recipe so your recipient can make it again.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Mediterranean Twist: Add crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and a sprinkle of oregano.
🌟 Spicy Kick: Include a small chopped jalapeño pepper in the marinade for a spicy twist.
🌟 Herby Delight: Experiment with other fresh herbs like mint or basil.
🌟 Sweet and Savory: Add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to the marinade for a touch of sweetness.
Troubleshooting
- Too much moisture: If the salad becomes too watery after marinating, gently drain off some of the excess liquid before serving.
- Bland flavor: Ensure you use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Check your seasoning and add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
- Not enough crunch: Keep marinating time under 2 hours to preserve the crispness of the vegetables.
FAQ
Q: Can I use different types of tomatoes? A: Yes, feel free to use any type of tomato you like. Roma tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, or heirloom tomatoes will all work well.
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time? A: Yes, this salad is best made ahead of time to allow the flavors to develop. Prepare it up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
Q: What can I serve this salad with? A: This salad is a fantastic side dish for grilled meats, fish, or chicken. It’s also delicious served with sandwiches, wraps, or as a light lunch on its own.
Q: Can I freeze this salad? A: It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as it will affect the texture of the vegetables.
Q: What if I don’t have olive oil? A: You can use another neutral oil like vegetable oil or avocado oil, but olive oil provides the best flavor.
Conclusion
This Marinated Cucumber, Onion & Tomato Salad is a simple yet stunning side dish that’s sure to become a family favorite! The vibrant colors and fresh flavors will brighten up any meal. Make it your own with a few creative twists. Enjoy, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations on RateMyRecipes!
The BEST Cucumber Tomato Salad Ever!
A refreshing and vibrant salad that combines crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups diced cucumbers
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced cucumbers, diced tomatoes, red onion, and parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine.
- Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving for the flavors to meld.
Tips
- For extra flavor, add feta cheese or avocado to the salad.
- Use heirloom tomatoes for a colorful and flavorful twist.