Cucumber Onion and Tomato Salad

🛒 Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 medium cucumbers, peeled or unpeeled depending on preference, sliced thin
• 3 ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges or chunks
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced into rings
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (or lemon juice)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional – balances the acidity)
• Fresh herbs, such as parsley, basil, or dill (optional but highly recommended)

🔪 Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing all your vegetables thoroughly.

• Cucumbers: If the skin is waxy or thick, peel them. Slice thin rounds or half-moons depending on preference.
• Tomatoes: Use ripe but firm tomatoes. Cut them into wedges or large chunks to avoid them getting mushy.
• Onions: Peel and slice into thin rings. For a milder flavor, soak the sliced onions in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain.

Step 2: Mix the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, chopped tomatoes, and onions. Gently toss to evenly distribute the ingredients.

Step 3: Dress It Up

In a small bowl or directly over the salad:

• Drizzle the olive oil.
• Add red wine vinegar or lemon juice for acidity.
• Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and a pinch of sugar (if desired) to taste.

Mix gently but thoroughly so every piece is lightly coated in the dressing.

Step 4: Add Herbs (Optional)

Chop fresh herbs such as parsley, dill, mint, or basil, and sprinkle them over the top. Herbs add not only color but also a fresh, aromatic twist.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

For the best flavor, let the salad sit in the refrigerator for 15–30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

🍽 Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a side dish to grilled chicken, fish, or kebabs.
• Pair with flatbread or pita and a dollop of hummus.
• Add feta cheese, olives, or avocado for a Mediterranean twist.
• Toss with cooked quinoa or chickpeas for a hearty version.

🧊 Storage Tips

This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Note that the tomatoes may release more juices, slightly softening the salad, but the flavors will deepen over time.

🥒 Health Benefits

This simple salad is not only delicious but also incredibly healthy:

• Cucumbers hydrate and aid digestion.
• Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants like lycopene.
• Onions support heart health and immunity.
• Olive oil provides healthy fats.

📝 Final Thoughts

The Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad proves that the simplest dishes often leave the most lasting impression. With fresh ingredients and a basic dressing, this salad delivers maximum flavor with minimum effort. It’s the kind of recipe that becomes a staple in every home—adaptable, affordable, and endlessly satisfying.

So next time you’re in need of a quick salad, skip the store-bought version and try this homemade delight—you’ll never look back!