Looking for a refreshing, zesty, and easy side dish? This Marinated Cucumber, Onion, and Tomato Salad is packed with crisp vegetables, tangy lime juice, and aromatic coriander, making it the perfect healthy side for any meal!
This no-cook, low-calorie recipe is ideal for BBQs, tacos, salads, or as a light snack.
💚 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Simple & Quick – Just 10 minutes of prep time!
✔ Naturally Healthy – Packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber.
✔ Versatile & Refreshing – Great as a side dish, topping, or salad mix-in.
✔ No Cooking Required – Just chop, mix, and marinate!
📌 Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
🥒 For the Salad:
- 2 small red onions, finely chopped
- 3 limes, juiced
- 1 tablespoon oil (light olive or avocado oil)
- 3 ripe tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh coriander, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon salt, divided
💡 Optional Additions:
✔ Add sliced cucumbers for extra crunch!
✔ Sprinkle with black pepper or chili flakes for spice.
✔ Substitute parsley for coriander if preferred.
🍽 Step-by-Step Instructions
🧅 Step 1: Prep the Onions
1️⃣ Finely chop the red onions and place them in a bowl.
2️⃣ Sprinkle with ½ tablespoon salt and let sit for 10 minutes.
💡 Why Salt the Onions? It removes bitterness and softens them for better texture.
🔥 Step 2: Soften the Onions
1️⃣ Cover the salted onions with lukewarm water and let them soak for another 10 minutes.
2️⃣ Rinse and drain thoroughly.
💡 Want a milder onion flavor? Soak in cold water for longer (up to 30 minutes).
🍋 Step 3: Marinate the Onions
1️⃣ Add lime juice and a pinch of salt to the drained onions.
2️⃣ Let them sit for at least 30 minutes, or until the onions slightly change color.
💡 More time = better flavor! Let them marinate overnight for deeper taste.
🍅 Step 4: Assemble the Salad
1️⃣ Chop the tomatoes into small pieces.
2️⃣ Mix them with the marinated onions, oil, and chopped coriander.
3️⃣ Taste and add more salt if needed.
💡 Serving Tip: Drizzle with extra lime juice before serving for a tangy kick!
🍽️ Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve as a side dish, topping for tacos, or mix into salads.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
💡 Best served chilled! Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving for enhanced flavors.
🕰️ Recipe Timing & Nutrition
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinate Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: ~40 minutes
- Calories: ~60 kcal per serving
- Servings: 4-6
👩🍳 Pro Tips & Variations
✔ Make It Heartier – Add avocado, chickpeas, or feta cheese.
✔ Spice It Up – Toss in jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
✔ Lower Sodium Option – Reduce salt or use sea salt for a lighter taste.
✔ Extra Crunch? Add radishes or bell peppers.
❓ FAQs
How long does this salad last?
It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! The flavors get better as it marinates overnight.
What can I serve this with?
It pairs perfectly with grilled meats, tacos, seafood, or Mediterranean dishes!
I love this salad. Thank-you for the recipe and suggestions to add to it !!!