Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This marinated vegetable salad is as simple as it is delicious. The crunchy vegetables soak up a tangy dressing, creating a flavor-packed side dish that’s perfect for any meal. It’s customizable, so you can use whatever vegetables are in season or to your liking, making it a versatile dish. The marinade adds depth and brightness, making the salad more than just a collection of veggies. It’s a great way to enjoy fresh produce and make vegetables the star of your meal!

Ingredients

1 cucumber, sliced
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
1 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup olives (optional)
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the vegetables: Slice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the bell pepper, and thinly slice the red onion. If you’re using olives, chop them into smaller pieces. Place all of the vegetables in a large bowl.
Make the marinade: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), minced garlic, salt, pepper, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until everything is well combined and the marinade is smooth.
Toss the vegetables with the marinade: Pour the marinade over the prepared vegetables. Toss well to ensure all the veggies are coated evenly in the dressing.
Marinate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but ideally 4 hours or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve: Once marinated, give the salad a quick toss and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy as a side dish or light meal!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Marinating Time: 1 hour (ideally 4 hours or overnight)
Total Time: 10 minutes + marinating time

Variations

Add cheese: Crumbled feta, goat cheese, or fresh mozzarella balls are great additions to this salad.
Include more veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or radishes to the mix.
Make it Mediterranean: Add some chopped cucumbers, artichoke hearts, and a sprinkle of feta cheese to give it a Mediterranean twist.
Make it spicy: If you like spice, add a bit more red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the marinade.
Add protein: Toss in grilled chicken, chickpeas, or beans to make this salad a complete meal.

Storage/Reheating

This marinated vegetable salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The vegetables will continue to absorb the marinade, so the flavors will deepen as time goes on. However, the salad is best eaten within 2 days to maintain the crispness of the vegetables. It does not need to be reheated, as it is typically served cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

1. Can I use other vegetables in this salad?

Yes, feel free to swap in any vegetables you enjoy, such as zucchini, carrots, or celery. The marinade will work well with a variety of vegetables.

2. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, the salad tastes even better after marinating for several hours or overnight. The vegetables soak up the marinade and become more flavorful over time.

3. How long can I keep this salad in the fridge?

The salad can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, the vegetables may soften the longer it sits in the marinade, so it’s best to eat it within 2 days for the freshest texture.

4. Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, this salad is already vegan! The dressing is plant-based, and it contains no animal products. You can add vegan cheese if desired for extra flavor.

5. Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Yes, you can substitute red wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar, or balsamic vinegar depending on your preference. Each will bring a slightly different flavor to the salad.

6. Can I add fruit to this salad?

Absolutely! Fresh fruit like strawberries, oranges, or apples can add a nice sweetness and contrast to the tangy dressing. Experiment with different combinations to

Conclusion

This Easy to Make Marinated Vegetable Salad is a perfect way to enjoy fresh, crisp veggies in a flavorful, tangy marinade. It’s a versatile dish that you can adjust to your taste by adding your favorite vegetables or protein. Whether you serve it as a side dish or as a light main course, it’s guaranteed to be a hit at any meal. Quick to prepare and full of vibrant flavors, this salad will quickly become a go-to in your recipe rotation.