Fresh, crisp, and bursting with vibrant flavors, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing cucumber, onion, and tomato salad to elevate your culinary experience. This simple yet delightful combination of ingredients creates a medley that is both visually appealing and palate-pleasing. The juicy crunch of cucumbers, the sharp tang of onions, and the juicy sweetness of tomatoes come together in perfect harmony, making this salad a true summer favorite.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, planning a picnic in the park, or simply looking for a light and healthy side dish, a cucumber, onion, and tomato salad is an excellent choice. Not only does it provide a burst of fresh flavors, but it also offers numerous health benefits.

Cucumbers are low in calories and rich in hydration, while onions are known for their immune-boosting properties. Tomatoes, on the other hand, are packed with antioxidants and vitamins, making this salad a nutritional powerhouse.

Ingredients:

2 medium-sized cucumbers
1 large red onion
4 ripe tomatoes
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1 ) Start by washing the cucumbers, tomatoes, and parsley under cold water. Pat them dry with a clean towel.

2 ) Peel the cucumbers if desired, or leave the skin on for added texture. Cut the cucumbers in half lengthwise, then slice them into thin half-moons.

3 ) Next, slice the red onion thinly, creating semi-circles. If the flavor of raw onions is too strong for your taste, you can soak the onion slices in ice water for 10 minutes before adding them to the salad. This will mellow their taste.

4 ) Core the tomatoes and cut them into bite-sized wedges or dice them, depending on your preference. Remember to remove the seeds to prevent the salad from becoming watery.

5 ) In a large mixing bowl, combine the cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes. Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top.

6 ) In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper until well combined. Adjust the seasonings according to your taste.

7 ) Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss until all the ingredients are evenly coated.

8 ) Allow the salad to marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together.

(Just before serving, give the salad a final toss and adjust the seasoning if necessary.)

9 ) Serve the cucumber, onion, and tomato salad chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish to complement grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a standalone light lunch.

Finally, this vibrant salad is not only visually appealing but also a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Enjoy the crispness of the cucumbers, the zing of the onions, and the juicy burst of tomatoes in every refreshing bite.

Whether you’re indulging in a summer gathering or looking for a healthy meal option, this cucumber, onion, and tomato salad is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire.