On those hot summer days, a refreshing and light dish can make all the difference. This cucumber salad combines the crispness of cucumbers, the juiciness of tomatoes, and the zing of red onions, all marinated in a tangy apple cider vinegar dressing. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a light snack.
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced (preferably English cucumbers for fewer seeds)
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced (Roma or vine-ripened for the best flavor)
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (adjust to taste if you prefer more tang)
- 2 tablespoons sugar (or to taste, can be substituted with honey or a sugar alternative)
- Salt and pepper to taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper and adjust)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Peel the cucumbers if desired, then thinly slice them. For a more attractive presentation, use a mandoline slicer.
- Dice the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Thinly slice the red onion. Soak the slices in cold water for a few minutes if you want to reduce their sharpness.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, combine the water, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, add the cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Mix and Chill:
- Toss the salad gently to ensure all the vegetables are coated with the dressing.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld together.
- Serve:
- Give the salad a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
- Enjoy chilled, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Why You’ll Love It
- Refreshing: Perfectly cool and crisp, ideal for summer days.
- Healthy: Packed with vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables.
- Quick and Easy: Simple to prepare with minimal ingredients and effort.
- Flavorful: The apple cider vinegar adds a bright, tangy flavor.
- Versatile: Works as a side dish, appetizer, or snack.
- Hydrating: Cucumbers are high in water content, helping to keep you hydrated.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the sweetness, acidity, and seasoning to your preference.
- No Cooking Required: Just mix and chill, no stove needed!
- Economical: Made with affordable and easily accessible ingredients.
- Kid-Friendly: Mild and appealing flavors that even children can enjoy.
Tips for Making
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher your vegetables, the better the salad will taste.
- Slice Thinly: Thin slices absorb the dressing better and provide a better texture.
- Chill Adequately: Allowing the salad to chill for at least 2 hours is crucial for flavor development.
- Adjust Sweetness and Acidity: Tailor the amount of sugar and vinegar to your taste. Add a little at a time and taste as you go.
- Enhance with Herbs: Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or cilantro can elevate the flavors.
- Mix-ins: Consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers or radishes for extra crunch and color.
How to Store
- Refrigeration: Store the cucumber salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
- Mix Before Serving: Stir the salad before serving each time to redistribute the dressing.
- Drain Excess Liquid: If the salad becomes too watery, you can drain some of the excess liquid before serving.
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Freshness Tip: For the best texture and flavor, consume the salad within the first two days. The cucumbers may lose some of their crispness over time.
