Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes: A Refreshing Summer Delight
This marinated cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes recipe, originating from Womack House, a quaint country kitchen nestled in Fulshear, Texas, is the epitome of summer in every bite. The sweet and tangy flavors harmonize beautifully, offering a refreshing side dish perfect for picnics, barbecues, or even a light lunch. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make this dish as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Category: Vegetables, Salads
- Cuisine: American
- Servings: 6โ8
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Suitable For: Beginners
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cucumbers (sliced) | 3 |
| Onion (thinly sliced) | 1 |
| Tomatoes (cut into wedges) | 3 |
| Vinegar (apple cider or white) | 1/2 cup |
| Sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | 2 teaspoons |
| Fresh coarse ground black pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh mint (chopped) | 1/4 cup |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 158.1 kcal |
| Total Fat | 9.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.3 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 782.5 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 18.1 g |
| Fiber | 1.9 g |
| Sugars | 13.2 g |
| Protein | 1.8 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by slicing the cucumbers into thin rounds, cutting the tomatoes into wedges, and slicing the onion thinly. This combination of fresh vegetables will form the base of your dish.
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Make the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine the vinegar, sugar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved. This tangy marinade will infuse the vegetables with flavor.
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Assemble the Salad: Add the sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions into the bowl with the marinade. Toss everything gently to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated with the marinade.
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Add Fresh Mint: Sprinkle in the fresh chopped mint. The mint will add a burst of refreshing aroma and flavor to the dish, enhancing its overall appeal.
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Refrigerate: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours. This will allow the flavors to meld together, giving the vegetables a deliciously marinated taste.
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Serve: Once the marinated cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes have had time to chill, serve them as a cool, tangy side dish. The freshness of the vegetables combined with the zesty marinade makes this dish a perfect addition to any summer meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This marinated cucumber, onion, and tomato dish brings the essence of summer to your table. The combination of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy onions, paired with the sweet and sour marinade, creates a balanced and refreshing flavor profile. The fresh mint elevates the dish, giving it a hint of aromatic coolness that ties everything together.
This recipe is not only quick and easy to make but is also versatile enough to accompany a variety of main dishes. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood, or can even be enjoyed as a light, standalone salad. With minimal prep time and no cooking involved, it’s a great option for busy days when you want something flavorful but simple.
Health Benefits
This marinated cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes dish is a healthy and nutritious addition to any meal. Itโs low in fat, free of cholesterol, and packed with fiber. The fresh vegetables are a rich source of vitamins and antioxidants, promoting overall health while keeping your meal light and satisfying.
- Low in Protein: Ideal for those who are following a low-protein diet.
- Low Cholesterol: Perfect for heart-healthy eating.
- Refreshing and Hydrating: The cucumbers and tomatoes are high in water content, making this dish both refreshing and hydrating.
This dish is also suitable for those with dietary restrictions, as it’s naturally free from gluten, dairy, and processed sugars, making it a great choice for those looking for clean, wholesome food.
Storage Tips
If you have any leftovers, store the marinated cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors continue to develop as the dish sits, making it even tastier the next day. Itโs best consumed within 2โ3 days to ensure freshness.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving a light, refreshing salad, this marinated cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes recipe is a must-try. It’s a simple, flavorful dish that captures the essence of summer in every bite. With minimal ingredients and a short prep time, this is a dish you can whip up anytime you need a delicious and healthy side. Enjoy!
