Refreshing Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes: A Vibrant Summer Salad
Introduction: Refresh your palate with this vibrant Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes salad, a perfect dish for hot summer days. This simple yet flavorful salad combines crisp cucumbers, sharp onions, and juicy tomatoes, all tossed in a light and tangy marinade. Not only is this salad delightfully refreshing, it’s also packed with essential nutrients that offer several health benefits, making it a fantastic addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 large Cucumbers, thinly sliced: Excellent source of hydration and vitamin K.
- 1 medium Red Onion, thinly sliced: Rich in antioxidants and supports cardiovascular health.
- 3 medium Tomatoes, cut into wedges: High in vitamins C and K, potassium, and lycopene.
- 1/4 cup of Olive Oil: Good source of monounsaturated fats and helps with nutrient absorption.
- 1/4 cup of Apple Cider Vinegar: Aids in digestion and adds a bright flavor.
- 2 tablespoons of Fresh Lemon Juice: Enhances flavor and boosts vitamin C content.
- 1 teaspoon of Honey: Offers a touch of sweetness and contains antioxidants.
- 1/2 teaspoon of Salt: Brings out the flavors of the other ingredients.
- 1/4 teaspoon of Black Pepper: Provides antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- 2 tablespoons of Fresh Herbs (such as dill, parsley, or basil), chopped: Adds freshness and additional nutrients.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced cucumbers, red onion, and tomato wedges.
- Mix the Marinade:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, honey, salt, and black pepper until well blended.
- Combine and Marinate:
- Pour the marinade over the vegetables in the mixing bowl. Toss gently to ensure all the vegetables are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle chopped herbs over the salad.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve:
- Stir the salad once more before serving to redistribute the marinade.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or a light standalone meal.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Hydration and Digestive Health: Cucumbers are mostly water, which helps keep you hydrated and supports digestive health.
- Heart Health: Onions and tomatoes are rich in compounds that may reduce heart disease risk. Olive oil’s healthy fats can also help manage cholesterol levels.
- Immune Support: The high vitamin C content in tomatoes, lemon juice, and fresh herbs boosts the immune system and promotes skin health.
- Bone Health: Vitamin K in cucumbers and tomatoes is essential for bone health.
Health Benefits:
- This Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes salad not only offers a refreshing taste but also brings a wealth of health benefits, making it a nutritious choice for those seeking a light and healthful dish. The combination of hydrating vegetables with a flavorful, heart-healthy marinade makes this salad an ideal choice for maintaining hydration and overall health during hot weather.
Conclusion: Enjoy this simple, nutritious Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes salad as the perfect addition to your summer meals. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavors, and loaded with health benefits, making it a delightful choice for anyone looking for a healthy, refreshing dish.
