Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad… Simple and Good

If you’re looking for a fresh and vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion, then you’re in for a treat with this Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad… Simple and Good! This salad is not only easy to whip up but also bursting with flavors that remind me of warm summer days. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, preparing a light lunch after a busy morning, or simply need a quick side dish for dinner, this recipe fits the bill perfectly.

What makes this salad really special is its versatility. It’s great on its own or as a companion to your favorite grilled dishes. Plus, the bright colors and crunch of the vegetables make it visually appealing. Trust me, once you try it, this will become a go-to recipe in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just 10 minutes, you can have this salad ready to serve. Perfect for those busy weeknights!
• Family-Friendly: With simple ingredients and flavors everyone loves, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it ahead of time; just let the flavors meld in the fridge!
• Healthy Choice: Packed with fresh veggies, this salad is a nutritious addition to any meal.
• Versatile Dish: It pairs well with almost anything—grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a picnic spread.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy to create something delicious without any fuss. Gather these fresh items before diving into the preparation!

• 3 tomatoes, diced
• 3 cucumbers, peeled and sliced
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup vinegar (white or apple cider vinegar works well)
• 1 teaspoon cracked pepper
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 cup water
• ¼ cup olive oil

Variations

One of the best things about this salad is how flexible it is! Feel free to play around with different ingredients based on what you have on hand or what flavors you enjoy.

• Add Fresh Herbs: Toss in some chopped parsley or cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.
• Include Avocado: Creamy avocado adds richness and makes the salad even more satisfying.
• Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
• Incorporate Cheese: Crumbled feta or goat cheese adds a delightful tanginess that complements the veggies beautifully.

How to Make Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad… Simple and Good

Step 1: Combine the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, and thinly sliced onion. Mixing these fresh ingredients creates a colorful base for your salad. The combination of juicy tomatoes and crisp cucumbers provides refreshing textures that will keep each bite interesting.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing

In a separate bowl or jar, whisk together the vinegar, cracked pepper, sugar, salt, water, and olive oil until the sugar and salt are dissolved. This dressing is what brings everything together! The tanginess from the vinegar balances perfectly with the sweetness from the sugar—trust me; it’s worth taking that extra moment to mix well.

Step 3: Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over your vegetable mixture and toss gently to combine. Make sure every piece gets coated in that luscious dressing! Tossing gently ensures that your vegetables stay intact while still soaking up all those delicious flavors.

Step 4: Chill for Flavor

Let the salad sit for at least 15-20 minutes in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld. Chilling not only enhances taste but also makes it refreshing when served cold. It’s like giving your salad time to mature into something truly special!

Step 5: Serve Your Salad

Serve chilled or at room temperature. Whether you’re enjoying it right away or saving some for later, this Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad… Simple and Good is sure to please everyone at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad… Simple and Good

Creating the perfect Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to make your salad even more delightful!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions enhance the flavors of the salad. Opt for seasonal produce whenever possible for the best taste.
• Adjust the acidity: If you prefer a tangier flavor, add a bit more vinegar. Conversely, if you like it milder, reduce the amount of vinegar. This flexibility allows you to customize the dressing to your liking.
• Let it marinate: Allowing the salad to sit in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes gives time for the vegetables to absorb the dressing. This step enhances the overall flavor profile and makes each bite delicious.
• Experiment with herbs: Adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can bring a refreshing twist to your salad. Their aromatic flavors complement the crunchiness of the vegetables beautifully.
• Serve chilled or at room temperature: While this salad is refreshing when chilled, serving it at room temperature can also be delightful. Just be sure to let it rest for a bit after taking it out of the fridge.

How to Serve Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad… Simple and Good

This vibrant salad not only tastes amazing but also looks stunning on any table. Here are some ideas on how to present and enjoy this simple dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro on top before serving for an added burst of freshness.
• Lemon zest: A little grated lemon zest can brighten up the flavors and add a lovely aroma.
• Feta cheese (plant-based alternatives available): For a creamy touch that adds depth without using animal-derived products, consider using a plant-based feta option.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetables: Marinated and grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant pair nicely with this salad by adding smoky flavors.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A warm quinoa pilaf cooked with spices adds protein and hearty texture that complements the lightness of the salad.
• Pita Bread with Hummus: Serve alongside soft pita bread dipped in hummus for a satisfying meal that balances crunch with creaminess.
• Rice Paper Rolls: Fresh rice paper rolls filled with veggies and served with a tangy dipping sauce make for a wonderful light meal alongside this refreshing salad.

Enjoy making your Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad… Simple and Good! It’s truly an inviting dish that can brighten up any meal while keeping things healthy and satisfying.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad… Simple and Good is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best eaten within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
• If you notice excess liquid from the dressing, you can drain a little before serving.

Freezing

• This salad is not ideal for freezing due to its high water content, which can affect texture once thawed.
• Instead, prepare only what you plan to eat fresh.

Reheating

• This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
• If you’d like to enjoy it warm, consider lightly sautéing the vegetables before combining them with the dressing.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I make Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad… Simple and Good ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad tastes even better after sitting for a while as the flavors meld together. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad… Simple and Good?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a refreshing side dish at barbecues. It’s versatile enough to complement many meals!

How long does Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad… Simple and Good last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this salad will stay fresh for about 2-3 days. Just remember that the vegetables may become a bit softer over time.

Can I add other ingredients to my Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad… Simple and Good?

Definitely! Feel free to customize with additional ingredients like bell peppers, herbs (like parsley or basil), or even avocado for added creaminess.

Is Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad… Simple and Good healthy?

Yes! This salad is low in calories and packed with vitamins from fresh vegetables. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a healthy side dish or light lunch option.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad… Simple and Good as much as I do! It’s such a vibrant dish that brings together fresh flavors in a delightfully simple way. Whether you’re serving it at your next gathering or enjoying it solo as a light lunch, I’m sure it will be a hit. Happy cooking!