Mom’s Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

Original recipe (1X) yields 8 servings:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons white vinegar
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste
• 5 salad cucumbers
• 3 small ripe tomatoes
• 1 sweet onion (such as Vidalia), thinly sliced

Directions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, white vinegar, red wine vinegar, sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Whisk well until the ingredients are fully mixed.

Step 2: Partially peel the cucumbers, leaving strips of peel intact. Slice the cucumbers into 1/4 to 1/2-inch thick slices and add them to the bowl with the vinegar mixture.

Step 3: Cut the tomatoes into wedges and add them to the bowl along with the thinly sliced onion.

Step 4: Toss the ingredients gently to coat them evenly with the dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and develop.

Step 6: Before serving, give the salad a final toss to ensure everything is well coated. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 109
• Fat: 7g (9% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 1g (5% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 0mg (0% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 166mg (7% Daily Value)
• Carbohydrates: 11g (4% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 2g (6% Daily Value)
• Sugars: 7g
• Protein: 2g (3% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 11mg (12% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 36mg (3% Daily Value)
• Iron: 1mg (4% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 338mg (7% Daily Value)

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

Origin and History

Mom's Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad is a dish that has been passed down through generations, cherished for its simplicity and fresh, vibrant flavors. Rooted in American home cooking, this salad has become a staple in many households, especially during summer months when cucumbers and tomatoes are in abundance. The origins of this dish can be traced to the desire to create a refreshing, light salad using ingredients readily available from the garden. The combination of cucumbers, tomatoes, and sweet onions, all marinated in a tangy, slightly sweet dressing, offers the perfect balance of flavors for a summertime snack or side dish.

Regional Variations

While the basic components of the salad remain the same, regional variations do exist. In the southern United States, for example, it is common to add a touch of mustard to the dressing, giving it a unique tangy flavor. In the Midwest, some people like to use sweeter onions, such as Vidalia onions, to enhance the natural sweetness of the salad. Additionally, in some areas, fresh herbs like basil or dill are added for an extra layer of flavor. Despite these variations, the core recipe remains beloved across the country for its ease and refreshing taste.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Moms Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad differs from other cucumber and tomato salads in several ways. Unlike a typical fresh tomato salad that might only use olive oil and vinegar, this recipe features a sweet and tangy marinade that enhances the flavor of the vegetables. The use of both white and red wine vinegars creates a balanced acidity, while the sugar adds a subtle sweetness that cuts through the sharpness of the onions. Moreover, the cucumbers are partially peeled, leaving strips of skin, which adds an interesting texture and visual appeal compared to more finely peeled cucumber salads.

Where It's Typically Served

This salad is typically served as a refreshing side dish during family gatherings, barbecues, or picnics. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fried chicken, or even as a light snack on a hot summer day. Its also common to see this dish on the tables of holiday meals, especially when the ingredients are in peak season. The salad can be served chilled, making it ideal for hot weather, and its often enjoyed as a cooling contrast to spicier or heavier main dishes.

Fun Facts

Did you know that cucumbers are over 90% water, making them one of the best hydrating foods you can eat? This makes cucumber salads, like Moms Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad, an excellent choice for staying refreshed in the summer heat. Additionally, tomatoes, often referred to as a vegetable in culinary contexts, are actually fruits botanically, as they develop from the flower of the plant. The combination of cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions in this salad not only offers great taste but also provides a variety of essential nutrients, including vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants.

Whether enjoyed on a hot summer day or as a side dish to a hearty dinner, Moms Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad is a timeless recipe that brings together the freshest ingredients for a delightful culinary experience.

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