Introduction
Transform humble cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes into a vibrant, refreshing salad in minutes! This recipe is your secret weapon for effortless entertaining or a quick, healthy weeknight meal. Perfect for busy cooks who appreciate big flavor without the fuss.
Why This Works
This salad is a winner because it’s unbelievably simple, uses readily available ingredients, and delivers a fantastic flavor punch. The marinade is the key – it’s tangy, slightly sweet, and perfectly balances the crisp vegetables. It’s the kind of dish that disappears fast!
Key Ingredients
- 🥒 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 🧅 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
- 🍅 2 pints cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 🌿 ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 🍋 ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice
- 🥄 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 🧂 1 teaspoon salt
- 🌿 ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 🍯 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
Instructions
1️⃣ Prep the veggies: Thinly slice the cucumbers and red onion. Halve the cherry or grape tomatoes. Chop the parsley.
2️⃣ Whisk the marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and honey (if using).
3️⃣ Combine and marinate: Add the sliced cucumbers, red onion, and halved tomatoes to the bowl with the marinade. Gently toss to coat everything evenly.
4️⃣ Chill and serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. The longer it sits, the more delicious it becomes! Serve chilled and enjoy!
Handy Tips
- For extra flavor, use a combination of red and white onions.
- If you don’t have fresh parsley, you can substitute with 1 tablespoon of dried parsley.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice and honey to your taste preference.
Heat Control
This recipe requires no heat! It’s all about the refreshing combination of chilled vegetables and a zesty marinade.
Crunch Factor
The perfect balance of crunchy cucumbers and juicy tomatoes creates a delightful textural experience. The slight bite of the red onion adds another layer of satisfying crunch.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- Use a mandoline slicer for perfectly even cucumber and onion slices. This will ensure even marinating.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- For a richer flavor, use high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
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 cucumbers might start to release some moisture.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This salad is perfect for potlucks or summer gatherings. Present it in a pretty glass bowl or individual mason jars for a charming touch. A simple ribbon adds a festive feel.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Mediterranean Twist: Add crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and a sprinkle of oregano.
🌟 Spicy Kick: Include a diced jalapeño or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
🌟 Herby Delight: Incorporate fresh dill, mint, or chives along with the parsley.
🌟 Creamy Addition: Stir in a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream before serving.
Troubleshooting
- Watery Salad: If your salad becomes too watery, gently press the cucumbers with a paper towel before adding them to the marinade to remove excess moisture.
- Overly Strong Lemon: If the lemon juice is too overpowering, add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity.
FAQ
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! This salad tastes even better after it’s had time to marinate in the refrigerator. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but up to a day ahead is fine.
- Can I use different types of tomatoes? Absolutely! Roma tomatoes, heirloom tomatoes—whatever you have on hand will work perfectly. Just be sure to halve or quarter them depending on their size.
- What if I don’t have honey? It’s completely optional! The lemon juice and olive oil provide plenty of flavor on their own.
- Is this salad suitable for vegetarians/vegans? Yes, this salad is naturally vegetarian and vegan-friendly.
Conclusion
This Marinated Cucumber, Onion & Tomato Salad is a simple yet stunning side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful – a true crowd-pleaser! Make it today, and don’t forget to share your creations on Ratemyrecipes.com!
5-Minute Marinated Salad: Dinner Party Ready
A quick and delicious salad that can be prepared in just 5 minutes, perfect for impressing guests at your dinner party.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and parsley.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, black pepper, and oregano.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Let the salad marinate for at least 5 minutes before serving.
Tips
- For extra flavor, let the salad marinate for up to an hour in the fridge.
- Add crumbled feta cheese or olives for an additional layer of taste.