Marinated cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes are a refreshing and versatile side dish that enhances many meals with their crisp texture and tangy flavor. This dish involves slicing cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes, then marinating them in a mixture of vinegar, olive oil, herbs, and spices. The marination process allows the vegetables to absorb the flavors, creating a vibrant and zesty accompaniment. Whether served alongside grilled meats, in sandwiches, or as a standalone salad, marinated cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes offer a delightful contrast to richer dishes and add a burst of freshness to your plate.
MARINATED CUCUMBERS, ONIONS, AND TOMATOES
Ingredients:
1 cup water
1/2 cup distilled white vinegar
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup sugar
2 teaspoons salt
1 tablespoon fresh, coarsely ground black pepper
3 cucumbers, peeled and sliced 1/4-inch thick
3 tomatoes, cut into wedges
1 onion, sliced and separated into rings
Directions:
-Whisk water, vinegar, oil, sugar, salt, and pepper together in a large bowl until smooth; add cucumbers, tomatoes, and onion and stir to coat.
-Cover bowl with plastic wrap; refrigerate at least 2 hours
Variations:
- Herb Infusions:
- Add fresh herbs like dill, basil, or parsley to the marinade for additional flavor.
- Try using dried herbs such as oregano or thyme for a different twist.
- Spicy Kick:
- Incorporate red pepper flakes, chopped jalapeños, or hot sauce for a spicy version.
- Experiment with different types of mustard or horseradish for extra heat.
- Sweet and Tangy:
- Add a teaspoon of honey or sugar to the marinade for a touch of sweetness.
- Use balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a different tangy profile.
- Asian Flavors:
- Include soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of ginger or garlic for an Asian-inspired twist.
- Add thinly sliced radishes or bell peppers for extra crunch.
- Mediterranean Style:
- Mix in crumbled feta cheese and black olives for a Mediterranean flair.
- Use red wine vinegar and a sprinkle of oregano for a classic Mediterranean taste.
Tips:
- Marination Time:
- Allow the vegetables to marinate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld, but they can be left longer (up to 24 hours) for a more intense flavor.
- Cut Consistency:
- Slice cucumbers and onions uniformly to ensure even marination and texture.
- For extra crunch, consider using English cucumbers or pickling cucumbers.
- Balance Flavors:
- Taste the marinade before adding the vegetables to ensure it has the right balance of acidity, sweetness, and seasoning.
- Refrigeration:
- Always store marinated vegetables in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
- Serving:
This dish pairs well with a variety of meals and can be a great addition to picnics or barbecues..
Serve chilled or at room temperature, depending on your preference.
To store marinated cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes effectively:
- Refrigeration:
- Container: Place the marinated vegetables in an airtight container to prevent them from absorbing other odors in the fridge.
- Temperature: Store in the refrigerator at a temperature below 40°F (4°C).
- Shelf Life:
- Freshness: Marinated vegetables are best consumed within 3 to 5 days. They may become soggy or lose their crispness over time.
- Quality Check: Before eating, check for any off odors or signs of spoilage.
- Avoid Freezing:
- Freezing is not recommended for marinated cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes, as it can negatively affect their texture and flavor.
- Mixing:
- If you have leftover marinade, you can occasionally stir the vegetables to ensure even flavor distribution.
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The nutritional information for marinated cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes can vary based on the specific recipe and ingredients used. However, here is a general overview of the nutritional profile for a typical serving (approximately 1 cup) of this dish:
Approximate Nutritional Values (Per 1 Cup Serving):
- Calories: 50-80 kcal
- Protein: 1-2 grams
- Carbohydrates: 8-12 grams
- Fiber: 2-3 grams
- Sugars: 4-6 grams (including natural sugars from vegetables)
- Fat: 2-4 grams
- Saturated Fat: 0.3-0.5 grams
- Sodium: 200-400 mg (depending on the amount of salt or sodium-rich ingredients used)
- Vitamin C: 20-30% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin A: 5-10% of the DV
- Potassium: 200-300 mg
Key Nutrients:
- Cucumbers: Low in calories, high in water content, and provide small amounts of vitamins K and C.
- Onions: Offer some vitamins (notably vitamin C and B vitamins) and antioxidants.
- Tomatoes: Good source of vitamins A and C, potassium, and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.
These values are approximate and can vary based on the types and amounts of vegetables used, as well as the ingredients in the marinade. For precise nutritional information, especially if you’re monitoring specific dietary needs, it’s best to use a nutrition calculator or consult with a dietitian.