Marinated ✨ Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad 🥒🍅

Step 2: Make the Marinade

1. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, vinegar, minced garlic, sugar, and Dijon mustard.
2. Whisk until well blended, creating a smooth dressing.
3. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust if needed. The key is a balanced tangy-sweet flavor.

Step 3: Combine Vegetables and Marinade

1. Place the sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions in a large mixing bowl.
2. Pour the marinade evenly over the vegetables.
3. Gently toss everything together using salad tongs or clean hands, ensuring each piece is coated without bruising the tomatoes.

Step 4: Let It Marinate

1. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid.
2. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, marinate 2–3 hours. The vegetables will soak up the dressing, and the flavors will blend beautifully.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Before serving, sprinkle fresh chopped herbs like parsley, dill, or basil over the top.
2. Optional: Add a few crumbles of feta cheese or a dash of lemon juice for extra brightness.
3. Serve chilled as a side dish, or enjoy it on its own for a light, healthy snack.

Tips for the Perfect Marinated Salad:

• Crispier cucumbers: Salt the cucumber slices lightly and let them sit for 10 minutes, then rinse to remove excess salt. This keeps them crunchy.
• Tomato choice matters: Ripe, firm tomatoes work best. Overripe tomatoes can become mushy in the marinade.
• Customizable flavors: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or a teaspoon of honey for extra sweetness.
• Make ahead: This salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just toss again before serving to refresh the flavors.

Why This Salad Stands Out:
The magic of this salad lies in the marination process, which turns ordinary cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes into a flavor-packed dish. Every bite is crunchy, tangy, and slightly sweet, making it irresistible. It’s not just a side—it’s a conversation starter at any meal.

If you want, I can also make a visually stunning version with a serving suggestion and plating style, so it looks as amazing as it tastes. This works perfectly for social media or dinner presentation.

Do you want me to do that?