As an avid foodie, I’m always on the lookout for new and exciting recipes to try out. One of my all-time favorites is the tomato salad recipe with marinated cucumber. It’s a refreshing and healthy dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from a summer BBQ to a light lunch. In this article, I’ll be sharing with you my go-to recipe for this tasty dish, as well as some tips for variations and serving suggestions.
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Health Benefits of Tomato Salad with Marinated Cucumber
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a moment to talk about the health benefits of this dish. Tomatoes and cucumbers are both incredibly nutritious vegetables that are packed with vitamins and minerals. Tomatoes are particularly high in vitamin C and lycopene, which is an antioxidant that has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and cancer. Cucumbers, on the other hand, are low in calories and high in water content, making them a great hydrating food. They also contain vitamin K and potassium, which are important for heart health and bone health.
When you combine these two vegetables in a salad, you get a dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly healthy. By marinating the cucumber, you add an extra layer of flavor and texture to the dish, while also making the cucumber more digestible.
Ingredients for Tomato Salad Recipe with Marinated Cucumber
Now let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious salad:
- 2 large tomatoes, diced
- 1 large cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Preparation of Marinated Cucumber
The first step in making this salad is to marinate the cucumber. To do this, combine the sliced cucumber, red wine vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, sugar, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix everything together until the cucumber is well coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
The longer you leave the cucumber to marinate, the more flavorful it will become. If you’re short on time, 30 minutes should be enough to get a nice flavor, but if you have the time, I recommend leaving it for at least an hour.
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Preparing the Tomato Salad
While the cucumber is marinating, you can prepare the tomatoes and onion. Start by dicing the tomatoes into small pieces and placing them in a separate bowl. Then, thinly slice the red onion and add it to the bowl with the tomatoes. Mix everything together and set aside.
Assembling the Tomato Salad with Marinated Cucumber
Once the cucumber has marinated, it’s time to assemble the salad. Start by removing the cucumber from the marinade and adding it to the bowl with the tomatoes and onion. Mix everything together until the vegetables are well combined. You can add some of the marinade to the salad if you like, but be careful not to add too much, as it can make the salad too acidic.
Adding Onion to the Tomato Salad Recipe
If you’re not a fan of raw onion, you can skip this ingredient or substitute it for something else, like sliced bell pepper or chopped celery. However, I find that the onion adds a nice crunch and flavor to the salad, so I recommend giving it a try.
Serving Suggestions for the Tomato Salad
This tomato salad with marinated cucumber is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions:
- As a side dish: This salad is a great side dish for grilled meats or fish. It’s also a nice accompaniment to a sandwich or wrap.
- As a main dish: If you’re looking for a light and healthy lunch, this salad is perfect. You can add some protein to it, like grilled chicken or shrimp, to make it more filling.
- On its own: This salad is so tasty that it can be enjoyed on its own as a snack or light meal.
Variations of the Tomato Salad Recipe
There are many ways to vary this tomato salad recipe to suit your taste preferences. Here are some ideas:
- Add herbs: You can add some fresh herbs to the salad to give it a different flavor. Basil, parsley, and mint are all great options.
- Use different vinegar: Instead of red wine vinegar, you can use balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or white wine vinegar.
- Add cheese: Feta cheese, goat cheese, or fresh mozzarella all work well in this salad.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a healthy and delicious salad recipe, give this tomato salad with marinated cucumber a try. It’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and can be served in many different ways. Whether you’re looking for a side dish, a main dish, or a light snack, this salad is sure to satisfy.
