Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes

Slice 2 medium cucumbers into ¼-inch rounds, halve 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice ½ cup of red or sweet onion into half-moons. (Optional: Submerge onion slices in ice water for 5 minutes to remove sulfur bite, then drain and dry).

In a cup or small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup apple cider vinegar, 2 tbsp granulated sugar, and ½ tsp fine salt until sugar and salt crystals are fully dissolved.

In a wide bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, halved tomatoes, and drained onions. Pour vinegar dressing evenly over the top and toss gently. (Do not add extra liquid; as salt draws out natural juices, the dressing volume will expand).

Let the salad sit at room temperature for 5 minutes for immediate serving, or cover and refrigerate for 1 hour for optimal chilled flavor integration.