Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes – The Ultimate Summer Salad!

Step 2: Mix the Marinade

In a medium bowl or jar, whisk together:

• Vinegar
• Water
• Olive oil
• Sugar
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Basil or your chosen herbs

Whisk until the sugar is fully dissolved and the dressing becomes smooth and well combined. This marinade will be both tangy and slightly sweet, the perfect balance to complement the vegetables.

Step 3: Combine and Marinate

Pour the prepared marinade over the cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes. Use a large spoon or tongs to gently toss everything together, ensuring all the vegetables are evenly coated in the dressing.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container.

Step 4: Chill and Let It Marinate

Place the salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to absorb the tangy dressing.

For the best taste, let it marinate for 4–6 hours or even overnight. The longer it sits, the more flavorful it becomes!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to redistribute the marinade. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed — you can add a little more vinegar for tang, or a pinch of sugar if it feels too sharp.

Serve it chilled, either as a light snack, a side to grilled meats, or a fresh complement to pasta or rice dishes.

🍽️ Serving Ideas

• With grilled chicken or fish: Its crisp acidity pairs beautifully with smoky grilled dishes.
• As a picnic side: Perfect for outdoor gatherings — it stays fresh even after sitting for a while.
• In a sandwich or wrap: Add it to a pita or wrap for an instant burst of flavor.

🌞 Tips for Success

• Use firm, ripe tomatoes — soft ones can get mushy after marinating.
• For extra crunch, use English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers with thin skins.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavor intensifies over time!

💬 Final Thoughts

This Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes salad is the ultimate celebration of summer simplicity. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and a light, zesty dressing, you can create a dish that’s as refreshing as a cool breeze on a hot day. It’s crisp, tangy, juicy, and absolutely irresistible — a true reminder that sometimes, the simplest recipes are the best.

So grab those garden veggies, whip up the marinade, and let summer’s bounty shine in your kitchen today! 🌿✨