Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
When the sun is high and the days are long, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing, tangy salad to capture the essence of summer. This Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes recipe is a nostalgic delight, reminiscent of the flavors enjoyed at the Womack House, a beloved country kitchen from Fulshear, TX. This dish combines the crispness of cucumbers, the sharpness of onions, and the juiciness of tomatoes, all brought together by a sweet and tangy marinade. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a cool side dish, this salad is a tribute to the simplicity and joy of summer eating.
Ingredients:
- 3 medium cucumbers, peeled and sliced into 1/4 inch rounds
- 1 medium onion, sliced into rings and separated
- 3 medium tomatoes, cut into wedges
- 1/2 cup vinegar (white or apple cider)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Directions:
- Prepare the Vegetables: Start by peeling the cucumbers and slicing them into 1/4 inch thick rounds. Slice the onion into rings and separate each ring for better marination. Cut the tomatoes into wedges, ensuring each piece is bite-sized for easy eating.
- Mix the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the vinegar, sugar, water, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved. The vinegar provides a tangy base, while the sugar balances it with a hint of sweetness.
- Combine and Coat: Add the prepared cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes to the bowl. Pour the oil over the vegetables. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring each piece is well-coated with the marinade. The oil helps to meld the flavors and gives the salad a silky texture.
- Chill and Marinate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This marination time allows the flavors to meld and intensify. For best results, let it marinate overnight. The longer the vegetables soak, the more flavorful they become.
- Serve and Enjoy: Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss to redistribute the marinade. Serve cold as a side dish or a light appetizer. This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood, or as part of a larger spread of summer dishes.
To add more depth and variety to this recipe, consider incorporating the following variations and tips:
Variations:
- Herbal Infusion: Add a handful of fresh herbs such as dill, parsley, or basil to the marinade. Herbs not only add a fresh flavor but also enhance the visual appeal of the salad.
- Garlic and Spice: For a more robust flavor, include a clove of minced garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes. This will give the salad a slight kick and additional depth.
- Colorful Additions: Incorporate other colorful vegetables like bell peppers, radishes, or carrots. These not only add nutrition but also make the salad more vibrant and appealing.
- Citrus Twist: Replace half of the vinegar with fresh lemon or lime juice for a citrusy tang. The citrus adds a refreshing brightness that is perfect for hot summer days.
- Sweet and Savory: For a touch of sweetness, add thinly sliced red onions instead of regular onions. Red onions have a milder taste and a beautiful color that enhances the dish.
Tips:
- Uniform Slicing: Try to slice the cucumbers and onions uniformly to ensure even marination and a consistent texture throughout the salad.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes you can find. Fresh, ripe vegetables will provide the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the marinade before adding the vegetables and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Some might prefer a sweeter or tangier marinade, so feel free to tweak the sugar and vinegar ratios.
- Serving Suggestions: This salad can be served on its own or over a bed of mixed greens. It can also be a great topping for grilled chicken or fish.
Conclusion
This Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients. It’s a dish that embodies the spirit of summer, offering a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Whether you’re reminiscing about meals at the Womack House or creating new summer memories, this salad is sure to be a hit. Easy to prepare and delightfully refreshing, it’s a go-to recipe for any warm-weather gathering. Enjoy the taste of summer in every bite!
