A vibrant celebration of summer’s bounty, Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes is a crisp, tangy, and refreshing dish that effortlessly bridges simplicity and flavor. Originating from rustic culinary traditions, this recipe transforms humble garden vegetables into a bright medley of textures and tastes. The interplay of juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and sharp red onions—unified by a zesty marinade of vinegar, olive oil, and aromatic seasonings—creates a versatile side dish that complements grilled meats, fish, or stands proudly on its own as a light meal.
Ideal for picnics, potlucks, or weeknight dinners, its appeal lies in its adaptability: customize it with herbs, spices, or creamy additions to suit your palate. Beyond its deliciousness, the dish is a testament to the beauty of minimalism in cooking, requiring no elaborate techniques yet delivering maximum freshness. Whether served immediately for a lively crunch or marinated overnight for deeper flavor infusion, it’s a timeless ode to seasonal produce and effortless culinary joy.
Ingredients
2 medium cucumbers (sliced thinly)
1 large red onion (thinly sliced)
3-4 ripe tomatoes (cut into wedges)
¼ cup apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp sugar (or honey)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 clove garlic (minced, optional)
Fresh herbs (dill, parsley, or basil for garnish)
Instructions
Prep Vegetables:
Slice cucumbers and onions thinly. Cut tomatoes into wedges.
(Optional) Sprinkle cucumbers with salt, let sit for 10 minutes, then rinse to reduce bitterness.
Make Marinade:
Whisk vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, pepper, and garlic in a bowl until combined.
Combine & Marinate:
Toss vegetables in the marinade. Refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours (overnight for deeper flavor).
Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes: Storage Guidelines
Container & Refrigeration
Airtight Container: Transfer the marinated vegetables to a glass or BPA-free plastic container with a tight-sealing lid.
Layering: If possible, arrange vegetables in a single layer to maintain texture (optional for casual storage).
Refrigerate Immediately: Store at 35–40°F (2–4°C).
Shelf Life
Optimal Freshness: Consume within 2–3 days for best texture.
Extended Storage: Up to 4 days, but cucumbers may soften, and tomatoes can release excess liquid.
Texture Preservation Tips
Drain Excess Liquid: If the marinade pools, gently stir before serving.
Revive Crunch: Add fresh cucumber slices or herbs before serving if stored >2 days.
Avoid Freezing: Freezing ruins the crisp texture of vegetables.
Serving After Storage
Serve Chilled: Remove from the fridge 10–15 minutes before serving to slightly temper the chill.
Garnish Refresh: Sprinkle fresh herbs (dill, basil) or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten flavors.
Food Safety
Check for Spoilage: Discard if you notice mold, off odors, or slimy texture.
Cross-Contamination: Use clean utensils to scoop portions to prevent bacterial growth.
