Why Make This Recipe
Grandma’s Marinated Cucumbers & Tomatoes is a perfect dish for those warm summer days. It’s light, refreshing, and full of flavor. This recipe combines crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and zesty onions, all coated in a simple vinegar dressing. It makes for a great side dish at picnics or barbecues and is easy to prepare. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy fresh vegetables from the garden.
How to Make Grandma’s Marinated Cucumbers & Tomatoes
Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 3 ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp sugar
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Fresh basil for garnish
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, chopped tomatoes, and sliced red onion.
- In a small jar, mix the white vinegar, olive oil, sugar, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Shake well to combine.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat everything.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This helps the flavors blend.
- Before serving, garnish with fresh basil. Enjoy it chilled!
How to Serve Grandma’s Marinated Cucumbers & Tomatoes
This dish is best served as a side salad during summer gatherings. It pairs nicely with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a light snack. You can serve it in a bowl with a sprinkle of fresh basil on top for a nice presentation.
How to Store Grandma’s Marinated Cucumbers & Tomatoes
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 2-3 days. Keep in mind that the cucumbers may become softer over time, but the flavor will still be delicious!
Tips to Make Grandma’s Marinated Cucumbers & Tomatoes
- Use fresh vegetables for the best taste. Homegrown or organic ingredients will elevate the flavors.
- If you prefer a sweeter dressing, feel free to add a bit more sugar to the mix.
- Allowing the salad to marinate overnight can deepen the flavors even more, but it’s always tasty after an hour.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by adding other vegetables, such as bell peppers or radishes. You could also replace the white vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a different flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other types of tomatoes?
A: Yes, any ripe tomatoes will work! Cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes can add a nice touch.
Q: How long can I leave the cucumbers and tomatoes in the dressing?
A: It’s best to consume it within 2-3 days for optimal freshness. The flavors will intensify, but the cucumbers may lose their crunch if left too long.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
A: Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan and contains no animal products.
Enjoy the refreshing taste of Grandma’s Marinated Cucumbers & Tomatoes and savor the delightful memories they bring!
Marinated Cucumbers & Tomatoes
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced Use fresh cucumbers for the best taste.
- 3 ripe tomatoes, chopped Any ripe tomatoes will work, including cherry or grape tomatoes.
- 1/2 large red onion, thinly sliced
Dressing
- 1/4 cup white vinegar Can be substituted with apple cider vinegar for a different flavor.
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp sugar Adjust according to your sweetness preference.
- to taste Salt & black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano
Garnish
- to taste Fresh basil For garnish before serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, chopped tomatoes, and sliced red onion.
- In a small jar, mix the white vinegar, olive oil, sugar, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Shake well to combine.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat everything.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to blend.
Serving
- Before serving, garnish with fresh basil and enjoy chilled.