Description
Refreshing cucumber, tomato, and onion salad brings Mediterranean zest to your table with minimal effort. Crisp vegetables and tangy dressing create a light, flavorful side that complements grilled meats and summer meals perfectly.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 3 medium tomatoes, cut into wedges or thick slices
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
Liquid Ingredients:
- ¼ cup (60 milliliters) white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) olive oil
Seasoning Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon (15 grams) granulated sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon (6 grams) salt
- ½ teaspoon (1 gram) black pepper
- 1 teaspoon (1 gram) dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- ¼ cup (15 grams) fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Meticulously wash all vegetables under cool running water, ensuring no dirt or debris remains.
- Using a sharp knife, slice cucumbers into thin, translucent rounds approximately 1/8 inch (0.3 centimeters) thick, creating uniform and elegant cuts.
- Dice tomatoes into similar-sized pieces, removing the core and seeds to prevent excess moisture in the salad.
- Slice red or white onions into delicate, paper-thin rings, which will absorb the marinade’s vibrant flavors more effectively.
- Transfer the sliced vegetables into a spacious mixing bowl, arranging them gently to maintain their delicate structure.
- In a separate small mixing bowl, whisk together white vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, granulated sugar, kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and dried oregano.
- Thoroughly blend the marinade ingredients until the sugar and salt completely dissolve, creating a harmonious dressing.
- Gently pour the marinade over the vegetable medley, carefully tossing to ensure each slice is evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl with a tight-fitting lid or plastic wrap, allowing the salad to marinate in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours.
- Before serving, give the salad another gentle toss to redistribute the flavors and revive the dressing.
- Optional: Garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley or dill for an additional layer of aromatic freshness.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or light summer accompaniment.
Notes
- Quick and refreshing summer salad that bursts with garden-fresh flavors.
- Minimal prep time with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
- Marinating transforms ordinary vegetables into a tangy, vibrant side dish.
- Best enjoyed chilled, making it perfect for picnics, barbecues, and potlucks.
- Versatile recipe that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fish, or as a standalone light meal.
- Nutrients from fresh vegetables and heart-healthy olive oil boost the dish’s nutritional profile.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: None
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 130 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg