Introducing Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad! This vibrant and refreshing dish celebrates the flavors of summer with crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and zesty red onions, all bathed in a tangy vinaigrette. The combination of white vinegar, oil, and a hint of sweetness from granulated sugar creates a perfect balance of flavors.

This salad is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to side dish for any occasion. Serve it chilled for a refreshing addition to your table, perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a light and healthy snack.

Tomato, Cucumber and Onion Salad

Ingredients

2 cucumbers, peeled and sliced

1 red onion, sliced into rings

½ pint of cherry tomatoes, sliced in half

⅓ cup white vinegar

¼ cup oil

⅔ cup water

3 tbsp granulated sugar

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1:

Cut the cherry tomatoes in half

Slice the red onion into slices

Step 2:

Peel and slice the cucumber, (you could them cut each slice into fourths, depending on the thickness

Step 3:

In a bowl mix the water with the vinegar and oil

Step 4:

Stir in the salt and pepper to taste

Pour the liquid over the cucumber, tomato and onion mixture

Step 5:

Stir to combine well

Refrigerate for up to an hour before serving

Enjoy!

Notes:

Customization: Feel free to customize the salad by adding ingredients like bell peppers, olives, or fresh herbs such as basil or parsley for extra flavor and texture.

Adjust Sweetness: Taste the dressing before adding the sugar and adjust according to your preference. You can also substitute granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.

Enhance Flavor: Consider adding minced garlic or finely chopped shallots to the dressing for added depth of flavor.

Texture Variation: Experiment with different cucumber cuts; you can slice them thinly for a delicate texture or chop them into chunks for a more substantial bite.

Marination Time: While the recipe suggests refrigerating for an hour before serving, allowing the salad to marinate longer can enhance the flavors further. Prepare it in advance and let it sit in the fridge for a few hours or overnight for best results.

Dressing Ratio: Adjust the ratio of vinegar, oil, and water based on your preference for acidity and richness. You can increase or decrease the amount of oil for a lighter or richer dressing.

Serve with a Twist: Serve the salad as a side dish alongside grilled meats, fish, or as a topping for burgers or sandwiches. You can also toss it with cooked pasta or quinoa to turn it into a refreshing main dish salad.

Nutrition Information:

SERVING SIZE: 1

Amount Per Serving: CALORIES: 104TOTAL FAT: 8gCARBOHYDRATES: 7gSUGAR: 4gPROTEIN: 2g

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

Yes, you can substitute regular tomatoes for cherry tomatoes in this salad.

Simply chop the regular tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.

How long does this salad need to be refrigerated before serving?

It’s recommended to refrigerate the salad for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

However, you can serve it immediately if desired.

Can I adjust the amount of sugar in the dressing?

Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar in the dressing to suit your taste preferences.

You can add more or less sugar according to your desired level of sweetness.

What type of vinegar is best for this salad?

White vinegar is used in this recipe, but you can also use apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar for a slightly different flavor profile.

How long can I store leftovers of this salad?

Leftovers of this salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

However, keep in mind that the vegetables may release some moisture over time, so the salad may become slightly watery upon storage.

Simply drain any excess liquid before serving leftovers.

Can I use English cucumbers instead of regular cucumbers?

Yes, you can use English cucumbers instead of regular cucumbers.

English cucumbers have thinner skins and fewer seeds, making them suitable for salads.

How should I adjust the seasoning if I prefer a tangier flavor?

If you prefer a tangier flavor, you can increase the amount of white vinegar in the dressing.

Start by adding an extra tablespoon and adjust according to your taste.

Can I add other vegetables or herbs to this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize this salad by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, olives, or fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor and texture.

Is it necessary to peel the cucumbers?

While it’s traditional to peel cucumbers for this salad, it’s not absolutely necessary.

If you prefer the texture and color of unpeeled cucumbers, you can leave the skin on.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this salad ahead of time.

However, it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to prevent the vegetables from becoming too soggy.

What type of oil is recommended for the dressing?

Any neutral-tasting oil such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or grapeseed oil works well for the dressing.

Choose based on your preference or what you have on hand.

Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?

Yes, you can substitute brown sugar for granulated sugar in the dressing.

Brown sugar will add a slightly different flavor profile to the salad but will work well with the other ingredients.

How do I know when the salad is properly mixed?

The salad is properly mixed when all the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing and the salt and pepper are distributed throughout.

Taste a small piece to adjust seasoning if needed.

Can I serve this salad warm instead of chilled?

While traditionally served chilled, you can serve this salad warm if you prefer.

Simply skip the refrigeration step and serve immediately after mixing.

What can I serve this salad with?

This salad pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or as a refreshing side dish alongside sandwiches or wraps.

It’s versatile and complements a wide range of main courses.